CLASS

WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits Online

Discover the main styles and types of spirits using sight, smell and taste to develop an understanding of the key factors that affect flavor and aroma. Gain a fundamental understanding on cocktail recipe creation. The course will be based around a 4-week, 6 module online learning program with educator support available for this time.

Who Should Attend

This qualification aims to provide basic product knowledge and skills in the service of spirits to help prepare a person for their job in hospitality or other sectors of the spirits industry. This may also appeal to the spirits consumer.

Course Outline

Main categories of spirits, explore the four key steps used in spirits production.
State the raw materials used to produce brandy and vodka. State the key flavor characteristics of these two spirits. Identify the key production processes that can have a defining influence on the characteristics of brandy and vodka. State the meaning of the key labelling terms for brandy. Identify the two types of still, state how they are used and the style of spirit they can produce.

State the raw materials used to produce Rum, Tequila, and Whisk(e)y. State the key flavor characteristics of these three spirits. Identify the key production processes that can have a defining influence on the characteristics of Rum, Tequila, and Whisk(e)y. State the different styles of Rum and the labelling terms for Tequila and Whisk(e)y.

Describe the different techniques to add flavor to spirits. State the principal types of flavored spirits. Describe the correct procedures for the storage of spirits. Name the important ingredients used to make cocktails. Identify the common equipment and glassware used in the service of spirits. State the four factors to consider when making a balanced cocktail.

Describe spirits using language from the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT). Practice your tasting skills and familiarize yourself with some of the key styles of spirits on the syllabus.

Course Specification

The full course specification is also available to download.

Exam Overview

30 multiple choice question exam
70% or better to achieve a pass
Online Remote Invigilated Exams are available as an add-on but all exams are otherwise held in person. Please ensure you meet the requirements before signing up for the online exam.

ONLINE Classes

$280 per student | The course modules should be followed in order, but students are free to complete the modules at their own pace during this 4-week window. The course material should take about 6 hours in total to complete, plus revision time. Online courses are available on an ongoing basis as listed below and must be registered 2 weeks before the start dates listed below.

Digital Certificate and Badges

All exams and classes starting in 2025 will now utilize WSET's digital certificates. Please use the link in your welcome email to register for the certificate. Your certificate will be immediately available the moment your results are provided.

HYBRID Monthly Classes (New!)

$270 per student | WEI conducts monthly classes in a hybrid format where you have scheduled support times from your instructor and all lectures are available on demand. These classes start on the first of every month with the test date on the last day of the same month. The workbook is mailed to you for this class type, whereas in the ONLINE class the workbook is included in the online materials and not mailed to you.

The student can contact the educator or WEI staff any time for the duration of the scheduled course, should they have any questions. Each week includes a series of independent and/or group activities to help students understand the differences between spirit types and styles.

Price: $ 280.00 OPTIONS Hybrid Every Month Jan 6 - Feb 12 Mar 10 - Apr 9 Online Exam Service   $55.00