WSET Level 1 Award in Wine
A one-day introductory WSET qualification for anyone beginning their wine journey, building practical knowledge for personal interest, hospitality, retail, or drinks service.
Key Details
- Duration: 1 day (10:00–17:00)
- Format: In person
- Location: The Sycamore Room, 15 Stephens Lane, Dublin 2 (D02 RX27)
- Exam: Same day, at the end of the course
- Suitable for: Beginners — no prior wine knowledge required
- Certification: WSET Level 1 Award in Wine
- Course Educator: Philip Dunne
- Language of tuition: English
- Certificate delivery: Digital
Who This Course Is For
- Complete beginners with no prior wine knowledge
- Hospitality staff starting in wine service
- Retail staff building product knowledge
- Enthusiasts who want structured wine education
What You Will Learn
- The main types and styles of wine
- Common wine grapes and their characteristics
- How to store and serve wine
- The principles of food and wine pairing
- How to describe wine using the WSET Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting Wine® (SAT)
What Is Included
- WSET Level 1 workbook (supplied on the day)
- Tuition by Philip Dunne
- 6 wine tasting samples
- Examination
- Digital WSET certificate and pin upon successful completion
Entry Requirements
- No prior wine knowledge or experience required
- Open to all — no restrictions on entry
- Photo ID required on the day
- Candidates must be over the legal minimum age for purchasing alcohol in Ireland to sit the exam
Examination
- Closed-book exam: 30 multiple-choice questions
- Time allowed: 45 minutes
- Pass mark: 70%
Upcoming Course Dates
Monday 29 June 2026 — Registration closes Monday 22 June 2026
Saturday 25 July 2026 — Registration closes 25 June 2026 at 12pm
Monday 31 August 2026 — Registration closes 31 July 2026 at 12pm
Monday 12 October 2026 — Registration closes 12 September 2026 at 12pm
Monday 30 November 2026 — Registration closes 30 October 2026 at 12pm
Saturday 5 December 2026 — Registration closes 5 November 2026 at 12pm
A welcome email with full venue details will be sent 7–10 days before your course date.
FAQs
Do I need prior wine knowledge?
No — this course is designed for complete beginners.
Is this suitable for hospitality beginners?
Yes, it is an ideal starting point for anyone entering wine service or retail.
When do I receive my study materials?
Your WSET workbook will be provided on the day of the course.
How is the exam assessed?
30 multiple-choice questions in 45 minutes. A score of 70% or above is required to pass.
What certificate do I receive?
The WSET Level 1 Award in Wine, delivered digitally after your result is confirmed.
Where does the course take place?
The Sycamore Room, 15 Stephens Lane, Dublin 2 (D02 RX27).
Can I progress to Level 2 afterwards?
Yes — WSET Level 1 is the natural stepping stone to WSET Level 2 Award in Wine.
Booking Information
- Select your preferred date above and click Book This Course
- All bookings are subject to our Booking Terms and Conditions
- Please send your date of birth to info@vinspireacademy.com after booking (required for WSET exam registration)
- For bank transfer payments or group enquiries, contact us at info@vinspireacademy.com
- For further course details, download the WSET Level 1 Wine specification
Why Learn with Philip Dunne?
- Real hospitality and drinks trade experience
- Professional, engaging teaching approach
- Practical, industry-relevant delivery
- Recognised WSET course structure with strong relevance to the Irish drinks and hospitality sector
Philip Dunne is the founder and head of education at Vinspire Academy — an experienced sommelier and educator with a background in both trade and enthusiast teaching.
What Our Students Say
"I recently completed the WSET Level 1 at Vinspire and couldn't recommend it more highly. As a chef and business owner in the food industry, I was looking for a course that could help me deepen my sensory vocabulary and professional understanding of flavour .... and Phillip delivered exactly that.
The day was incredibly engaging, well-structured, and insightful. I was thrilled to achieve a 90% pass mark, which is a testament to the quality of the teaching. If you're looking to layer professional wine knowledge onto your existing culinary experience, this is the place to do it.
I'm already looking forward to coming back for Level 2 in May"
Gráinne Mullins, Chef & Business Owner - Grá Chocolates
What's Next?
Completed Level 1? Continue your wine education with the WSET Level 2 Award in Wine.
Interested in spirits? Explore the WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits.