WSET Level 2 Award in Wine
A three-day WSET qualification for those who want to build a solid, structured knowledge of wine — covering grape varieties, wine regions, tasting technique, and service. Suitable for hospitality professionals, retail staff, and enthusiasts ready to go beyond the basics.
Key Details
- Duration: 3 days (10:00–17:00 each day)
- Format: In person
- Exam: On the final day of the course
- Private study recommended: Approx. 11 hours outside the classroom
- Certification: WSET Level 2 Award in Wine
- Language of tuition: English
- Certificate delivery: Digital
Who This Course Is For
- Those with little or no prior wine knowledge who want a structured foundation
- Hospitality and restaurant staff requiring solid wine knowledge
- Retail and wholesale staff in wine sales or customer service
- Enthusiasts ready to move beyond Level 1
- Anyone building towards WSET Level 3
What You Will Learn
- How to taste and describe wine using the WSET Level 2 Systematic Approach to Tasting Wine® (SAT)
- How environmental factors, grape-growing, winemaking and maturation influence style and quality across 8 principal grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio/Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Syrah/Shiraz
- Style and quality of wines from 22 regionally important grape varieties and over 70 geographical indications worldwide
- Key styles of sparkling and fortified wines
- Key labelling terms, storage, service, and food and wine pairing principles
What Is Included
- WSET Level 2 study pack: course manual, study guide, and laminated tasting card
- Course handouts
- Tuition by Philip Dunne (Dublin) / Fionnuala Harkin (Cork)
- Minimum 30 wine tasting samples
- Examination
- Digital WSET certificate and pin upon successful completion
Entry Requirements
- No prior wine knowledge required — Level 1 is not a prerequisite
- Open to all — no restrictions on entry
- Photo ID required on the day of the exam
- Candidates must be over the legal minimum age for purchasing alcohol in Ireland to sit the exam
Examination
- Closed-book exam: 50 multiple-choice questions
- Time allowed: 60 minutes
- Pass mark: 55%
Upcoming Course Dates
Dublin — Mon 14 Sep, Tue 15 Sep, Mon 28 Sep 2026
Registration closes 14 August 2026 at 12pm. Study pack posted if booked by 1 August.
Dublin — Mon 9 Nov, Tue 10 Nov, Mon 23 Nov 2026
Registration closes 9 October 2026 at 12pm. Study pack posted if booked by 1 October.
Dublin — Mon 16 Nov, Tue 17 Nov, Wed 18 Nov 2026 (Intensive)
Registration closes 16 September 2026 at 12pm. Study pack posted if booked by 1 September.
Cork — Mon 2 Nov, Mon 9 Nov, Mon 16 Nov 2026
Venue: The River Lee Hotel, Western Rd, Cork. Registration closes 12 October 2026 at 12pm. Educator: Fionnuala Harkin.
A course welcome email with a reminder of all details will also be sent 7–10 days before your course date.
FAQs
Do I need to have completed Level 1 first?
No — Level 1 is not required. Level 2 is open to all, including those new to wine.
How much study is required outside the classroom?
WSET recommends approximately 11 hours of private study during the course period.
When do I receive my study materials?
Your study pack will be posted to you if you book before the relevant deadline. After that, it will be provided on the first day of the course.
How is the exam assessed?
50 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes. A score of 55% or above is required to pass.
What certificate do I receive?
The WSET Level 2 Award in Wine, delivered digitally after your result is confirmed.
Can I progress to Level 3 afterwards?
Yes — WSET Level 2 is the recommended foundation for WSET Level 3 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 2 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 took WSET2 course and really enjoyed it!! Special thanks to Philip for warm welcoming and delivering such high-quality teaching. He attends to each member's needs and has a lot of interaction with everyone. Particularly as I am not a native speaker, he made a point of telling me to approach him if encounter any difficulties. It's a really lovely experience and relaxing vibe for learning! I'll definitely consider to study WSET3 here if I get a chance!! 🥂"
— DiYun Chen
What's Next?
Ready to advance? Continue with the WSET Level 3 Award in Wine.
Interested in spirits? Explore the WSET Level 2 Award in Spirits.