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WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits Online
This entry level course will suit candidates wanting to learn more about spirits within an interactive, structured framework and for those with their first job in hospitality, retail or in other sectors of the spirits industry
The qualification provides basic product knowledge of styles, production methods and service of spirits. By the end of the course you will be able to taste and describe spirits using a globally-recognised approach, identify important styles of spirits, and know the raw materials and production methods that define them.
No prior spirits knowledge is required, just enthusiasm!
The online classes are delivered in English therefore a good level of English is beneficial.
You must be at least 18 years old to enrol on any of our courses.
Online format and important notes
- The main types and styles of wine
- The characteristics of the most common wine grapes
- The correct way to store and serve wine
- Foundations of food and wine pairing
- How to taste and describe wine using the WSET Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting Wine® (SAT)
Online format and important notes
The duration of the online course is 4 weeks.
You will follow a module online learning programme that covers the same syllabus as the in-person classroom course.
The modules should be followed in order, but you can complete the modules at your own pace during the 4 week time period.
You will have educator support available during this time and can contact them if you have any questions during the 4 weeks.
During each week you will participate in independent and/or group activities.
Please participate in the activities, it is important during any online course and please taste a wide range of spirits during your online studies.
The required spirits can be found in the online Equipment List and a list of other recommended spirits is in the Course Specifications.
You can post your tasting notes in the Online Classroom your educator to review and provide you with feedback.
After the 4 weeks course you will continue to have access to the content for one year, but you will not be able to participate in the discussion forum and interact with your classmates anymore.
You will need access to a computer (recommended) and/or HTML5 compatible mobile or tablet.
The device will need:
Internet Explorer 10, Firefox 25.0, Safari 6, Chrome 30.0 or other HTML5 compatible
Web browser with Javascript and cookies enabled
Adobe Reader XI or equivalent
Broadband Internet access
Topics you will cover in the online Level 1 Spirits course
The basic principles of spirit production
The main types and styles of spirits: Brandy, Vodka, Rum, Tequila, Whisk(e)y and
Flavoured Spirits
Factors affecting the flavour of spirits
How to store and serve spirits
Online tasting guidance on how to taste and describe spirits using the WSET Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting Spirits® (SAT)
Exam / Assessment
The Level 1 Award in Spirits exam consists of 30 multiple-choice questions
Exam must completed in 45 minutes
To pass you must correctly answer 70% of the questions
The course is designed to be fully online that includes a computer-based testing via Remote Invigilation (RI) to take your exam. You will be monitored via webcam, screen sharing technology and a secondary recording device during your exam to ensure integrity with the qualification.
Successful students will receive a WSET digital certificate
Included in the online course fee
The course will be hosted online with a WSET certified educator
All the study materials that is available via the Online Classroom
The WSET Global Remote Invigilation (RI) exam fee
A digital WSET certificate when you pass
Note that the course fee does not include any spirits samples
course date/s.
exam date.
(TBA if not shown below)
payment date.
price.
6 July 2026
22 June 2026
R
4900
The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) is the world’s leading provider of drinks qualifications. The courses are designed to inspire and empower anyone looking to develop their drinks knowledge, from beginners to experts, and from enthusiasts to professionals. WSET qualifications are globally recognised as the international standard in wine knowledge.
winelab.Africa is an Approved Programme Provider for WSET qualifications. We offer courses and facilitate exams across Africa.
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