WSET Level 2 Award in Wine

Take your wine knowledge to the next level! With WSET Level 2, you will learn about the most important grape varieties and the different styles of wines they produce. And of course, you will taste a lot of great examples! 

The Level 2 Award in Wines is a proper wine course that takes you from beginner to intermediate level. You’ll gain knowledge of the most important grape varieties in the world, the regions in which they are grown and the styles of wine you can make with them. Expect a mix of history, geography, viticulture, winemaking and business. Get ready to understand why different wines styles taste different, discover the basis of quality assessment and learn how to describe these wines like a pro.

WHO SHOULD CONSIDER STUDYING FOR WSET LEVEL 2?

1. Those employed, or looking to be employed, in the drinks industry who have little previous knowledge of wine or alcoholic drinks in general.

2. Those not employed in the drinks industry who wish to study wine using a structured curriculum and formal assessment.

3. The course is an absolute must for anyone considering pursuing a career in the wine industry.

4. Those who wish to progress on to the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines course, as the L2  is a requirement in the majority of cases.

At a glance:

• 40 + wines tasted
• 16 hours tuition
• 12 hours home study
• 60-minute multiple-choice exam

Please note: you do not need to have completed the WSET Level 1 to register to Level 2, although it would certainly be of help!

Once you’ve gained the Level 2 Award you can opt to continue with the following Level 3 and the very sought-after Level 4 or Diploma in Wines, one of the most highly-regarded and difficult wine qualifications in the world!

WHEN AND HOW MUCH

This course is completed in two days:

• Sunday 22nd November 2026 10-6 pm (includes lunch break)
• Sunday 29th November 10-6 pm (includes lunch break)

Course cost £595 which includes:

– all wine tastings and lectures, course material, examination fee, certificate and label pin

How to book

-> To book the course, please email Alex at thamesvalley@localwineschool.com to arrange payment. You can also buy an open dated voucher for this course!

Please note, none of the Stanlake Park vouchers or Gift Cards are valid for any WSET courses.

Questions about the course? Email Alex at thamesvalley@localwineschool.com

Questions about the venue or lunch/optionals? Email Natalia at natalia@stanlakepark.com

COURSE SYNOPSIS

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.

• 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 DELIVERY AND MATERIALS

• Study Materials: Students will receive the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines course study pack upon arrival at school. This consist of the course textbook (a comprehensive guide to the wines of the world), a study guide (complete with maps, example questions, and forms for your own tasting notes), and a laminated tasting card.
• Recommended Private Study: You should be prepared to dedicate a minimum of 14 hours to study time outside of the classroom.
• Examination: 50 multiple-choice questions to be answered in 1 hour. A mark of 55% is required to pass.
• Certification: All students who pass will be issued with a certificate suitable for framing and a lapel pin.

Special Educational Needs: Please make the School aware if you have a condition that may mean that you will qualify for additional help during the exam such as dyslexia.