three rows of red barrels in stone walled cave

Level 2 Award in Wines: Course Specifications & Policies

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:
    • Sparkling wines
    • Fortified 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

Course format

  • 16 hours of in-person guided learning with a WSET course provider culminating in a one hour examination.
    • Note: this course will either be delivered in 2 days with the exam shortly following the course or delivered in 2 hour classes over 8 weeks then an exam to follow within a week of the last day of instruction
  • 11 hours of personal study will be required in addition to the guided learning time

Fees and Materials:

  • $850 (inquire directly for teaching assistant options)
  • Course fee includes:
    • All course materials
    • Enrollment fee
    • Exam fee
    • In-person classroom instruction
    • Certificate
    • At least 6 wines tasted for each of the 8 units studied

Added benefits for this course:

  • Currently only public course offered in Sonoma County, shortened travel for Sonoma and Mendocino residents
  • Opportunity to meet guest winemakers – subject to availability
  • Invitation to post-course happy hour hosted by wineries at Bacchus Landing

For more details, check out Level 2 Specifications