The Ultimate Guide to WSET Level 2 Award in Wines

The WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) Level 2 Award in Wines is the industry standard for beginners serious about wine. Whether you are looking to break into the hospitality industry or just want to navigate a wine list with confidence, this qualification provides the comprehensive foundation you need.

In this guide, we break down exactly what the course entails, the key concepts you must master, and strategies to ensure you pass with distinction.

What is WSET Level 2?

WSET Level 2 is an intermediate-level qualification exploring wines and spirits. It assumes no prior knowledge, making it accessible to novices, but the depth of information is significant.

The Exam Format

  • Duration: 1 Hour
  • Questions: 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
  • Pass Mark: 55% (28/50)
  • Merit: 70-84%
  • Distinction: 85%+

Understanding the format is crucial. You have roughly 1.2 minutes per question. Speed and accuracy are key.

Key Learning Outcomes

The syllabus is divided into several Core Educational Topics.

1. Factors Influencing Wine Style

You must understand why wine tastes the way it does.

  • Environmental Factors: Climate (Cool vs. Warm), Weather, Soil, Aspect.
  • Grape Growing: Pests, Diseases, Harvest timing.
  • Winemaking: Fermentation temperatures, Oak aging, Malolactic Fermentation, Lees contact.
  • Maturation: Bottle vs. Tank vs. Barrel.

Example Question: Why does a Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough taste different than one from Sancerre? (Answer: Climate and winemaking choices).

2. Principal Grape Varieties

Detailed knowledge of these grapes is non-negotiable:

  • White: Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio/Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Chenin Blanc, Semillon, Furmint.
  • Red: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Syrah/Shiraz, Grenache, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Gamay, Zinfandel.

For each, you need to know:

  • Characteristics: Acidity, tannin, body, fruit flavors.
  • Climate preferences: Does it like cool or warm regions?
  • Key Regions: Where is it famous?

3. Key Wine-Producing Regions of the World

You need to map the grapes to their homes.

  • France: Bordeaux (Left vs Right Bank), Burgundy (Chablis, Cote d’Or), Loire, Rhone, Alsace.
  • Italy: Piedmont, Tuscany, Veneto, Sicily.
  • Spain: Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Rias Baixas, Priorat.
  • New World: USA (Napa, Sonoma), Australia (Barossa, Coonawarra), New Zealand (Marlborough), South Africa (Stellenbosch), Chile (Maipo), Argentina (Mendoza).

4. Sparkling & Fortified Wines

Often overlooked, but these make up a significant chunk of the exam.

  • Sparkling: Champagne Method (Traditional) vs Tank Method vs Asti Method. Prosecco vs Cava.
  • Fortified: Sherry (Fino, Oloroso, Amontillado) and Port (Ruby, Tawny, Vintage).

Study Strategies for Success

1. The Specification is Your Bible

Download the official specification from the WSET website. If a term is in there, it can be tested. If it’s not, ignore it.

2. Understand, Don’t Just Memorize

Don’t just memorize that Chablis is high acid. Understand why: Cool climate + Kimmeridgian soil + Chardonnay grape. This logic helps you answer twisted questions.

3. Use Leading Questions

When tasting or studying, ask yourself:

  • “If this region is near the ocean, how does that affect the acidity?”
  • “If this grape has thick skin, what does that mean for tannins?“

4. Practice with VinoPrep

Our app is designed specifically for this. We have map quizzes to nail down geography and concept quizzes to test your understanding of winemaking processes.

Common Pitfalls

  • Confusing Regions: Knowing the difference between Puilly-Fumé (Loire, Sauvignon Blanc) and Pouilly-Fuissé (Burgundy, Chardonnay).
  • Acidity vs Tannin: Confusing the physical sensation of drying (tannin) with mouth-watering (acidity).
  • Label Terms: Misunderstanding terms like “Grand Cru” vs “Reserva” across different countries.

Conclusion

Passing WSET Level 2 requires dedication, but it unlocks a lifetime of wine enjoyment. Focus on the “Principal Varieties” and “Factors Influencing Style,” and you will be well on your way to that Distinction pin.