When you’re ready to take the next step into the world of wine, start here.

Level 2 is intended for beginners wishing to learn about a wide range of wines or for those who wish to build on the introductory knowledge gained in the WSET Level 1 Award. You’ll gain knowledge of the principal and regionally important grape varieties of the world, the regions in which they are grown, and the styles of wine they produce. Through a combination of tasting and theory, you’ll explore the factors that impact style and quality and learn how to describe these wines with confidence.

On successful completion of the examination you will receive a WSET certificate and lapel pin, and will be able to use the associated WSET certified logo.

What you'll learn

• How to taste and describe wine using the WSET Level 2 Systematic Approach to Tasting Wine®(SAT)

• How environmental factors, grape-growing, winemaking and maturation options influence the style and quality of wines made from eight principal grape varieties:

  • Chardonnay

  • Pinot Grigio/Gris

  • Sauvignon Blanc

  • Riesling

  • Cabernet Sauvignon

  • Merlot

  • Pinot Noir

  • Syrah/Shiraz

• The style and quality of wines:

  • made from 22 regionally important grape varieties

  • produced in over 70 geographical indications (GIs) around the world

• How grape varieties and winemaking processes influence key styles of fortified and sparkling wines

• Key labelling terms used to indicate origin, style and quality

• Principles and processes involved in the storage and service of wine

• Principles of food and wine pairing

• Link to WSET Level 2 Wine Specification

Course details

This qualification has a minimum requirement of 28 hours of study time:

• 16 hours of delivery time with a WSET course provider (classroom or online)

• 11 hours of personal study and revision

• A 1-hour examination

Online Classroom course details

• Duration: Five weeks self-guided study to be completed around your schedule

• Private study: At least six hours a week

• Tasting Kit: Optional. WSET-approved tasting kits from E-Tasting can be included as part of your class. Simply add the kit to your order when you check out. The kit includes 12 50ml samples.

• Also Includes: Access to WSET's Online Classroom for one year (where you can participate in online lessons, activities, tests and forums), a dedicated online tutor who is available to answer your questions during the course, ebook, and your exam

• Features: Revision videos, flash cards and exam tips

We recommend that you use a laptop or desktop device and have a reliable internet connection. To sit your examination online you will also need one additional smart device such as a smartphone or tablet.

Exam details and terms

1. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions.

2. PhillyWine reserves the right to refuse to administer exams to in-person and online students who do not meet minimum grade, participation, or attendance requirements.

3. Exams must be taken within one year of completion of the course. If the exam is not completed in that timeline, students must resit the class (at a reduced price) or take a qualifying exam.

4. If a student signs up late (pass the published deadline) or ‘no-shows’ for an exam, PhillyWine reserves the right to charge additional late/no show fees as set forth by WSET.

Requirements

You must be of legal drinking age.

Cancellation / Refunds

50% refund only for Level 2 cancellations with less than 15 days’ notice. Please contact PhillyWine for the option of applying tuition toward a future class. Tuition includes a non-refundable $200 deposit. If PhillyWine cancels the class, you will be given the option for a full refund or reschedule date.