“The fact remains that the wine industry needs more women, more people of color in wine media, wine journalism, winemaking, and more support for the people in our industry who are not recognized.” - Julia Coney
One of the many goals I set this year for myself was to obtain my WSET Level 2 certification. Earlier this year before the world was turned upside down due to COVID-19, I started my 5 week in-person course at Crystal Palate in Norfolk, VA via the Capital Wine School. Last August, I completed and successfully passed my WSET Level 1 course, so continuing my wine education was something I deeply wanted. Both experiences were wonderful, and I was so thrilled to dive deeper into the world of wine.
Today, I am sharing some questions I’ve received around my experience pursuing my WSET certifications. Also, be sure to check out a Q&A that I did last year after passing my Level 1 certification!
WSET Level 1 & 2 pins
What is WSET?
The Wine and Spirit Education Trust provides globally recognized education and qualifications in wines, spirits and sake, for professionals and enthusiasts.
Is the WSET the same thing as being a sommelier, and what’s the difference?
The key difference between the two is that WSET focuses more on product knowledge and tasting skills. Sommeliers hone in on service technique, glassware selection, and pouring.
For me the WSET was a perfect fit as I wanted to learn more about wine and the winemaking process. Since, I do not work in the restaurant industry, and my main line of work is in Information Technology, WSET aligned more closely with my wine education goals.
How much are the WSET courses and how long did it last?
For the WSET Level 1 course the price is approximately $315. I decided to take the class in person, and it lasted for about 8 hours with the exam the same day. We tasted about 6 wines during the course time.
The WSET Level 2 course costs around $650. It was a 3 hour class in-person, once a week for 5 weeks. Also, we were given a week break to prepare for the final exam.
What’s the difference between each level?
Level 1 covers the basics in wine, and only tapped into the differences in red and white winemaking. The course is truly an introductory class.
Level 2 goes much deeper, you’ll expound upon Level 1, and dive into champagne and fortified wines. You’ll learn about the different grape varietals as well as the various geographic indications.
This course was more of a commitment than Level 1, which only lasted one day. Level 2 had a lot of material to cover, and after each session, we were given required reading and activities in our workbook. It was essential to complete our readings as it prepared us immensely for the subsequent classes and final exam.
This course really taught me how to taste wines more efficiently. I definitely feel that my palate evolved, and was able to taste wines in a way I hadn’t previously.
Almost all of the students in my Level 2 class did skip over the Level 1 course, which is very common. Since I do not work in the food/wine industry solely, taking both levels was essential for me, and I’m so glad that I did.
What was the demographic in your class?
I’ve received this question a lot, and to be honest I was the only Black person in my class. Unfortunately, this is a common theme in the wine industry.
Per WSET’s recent survey, “…communities of color are notably underrepresented in the three-tier system with 84% of responders self-identifying as Caucasian/white compared to 78% nationally.”
For those who choose to self-identify as Black/African American we make up approximately 2%. It is definitely shocking to see it statistically, but it is not at all surprising. The Black community is far underrepresented in the wine community.
I’ve been so very blessed to be able to pursue an education in wine. Also, it is so necessary to have people in the wine community who support your endeavors. I was truly fortunate to also have an instructor that encouraged me to take the Level 2 course, Crystal Cameron-Schaad, from Crystal Palate.
Have you given much thought of continuing your wine education?
At this time, I’m super happy with how far I’ve come in my wine education experience. I’ve had a wonderful time growing and expanding my wine knowledge. For now, I’m very content and thrilled that I’ve completed and passed both WSET levels successfully.
XO, Analise