WSET Level 3 Award in Wine
An advanced WSET qualification for wine professionals and serious enthusiasts who want a detailed understanding of grape growing, winemaking, and wine assessment. Upon completion you will be able to evaluate wines accurately and confidently explain style and quality.
Key Details
- Duration: 6 days across 3–6 weeks (approx. 32 hours in-class + 51.5 hours private study)
- Format: In person
- Location: The Sycamore Room, 15 Stephens Lane, Dublin 2 (D02 RX27)
- Exam: Written and tasting exam on the final day
- Recommended entry: WSET Level 2 Award in Wine or equivalent knowledge
- Certification: WSET Level 3 Award in Wine
- Lead Educator: Mine Bennett
- Language of tuition: English
- Certificate delivery: Digital
- Places: Limited to 12 students per course
Who This Course Is For
- Wine professionals seeking advanced qualification
- Hospitality and sommelier professionals
- Serious enthusiasts ready for in-depth study
- Those who have completed WSET Level 2 and want to progress
What You Will Learn
Unit 1 — Wine Knowledge
- The key factors in wine production: location, grape growing, winemaking, maturation, and bottling
- How these factors influence the principal still, sparkling, and fortified wines of the world
- How to apply your understanding to explain wine style and quality
Unit 2 — Wine Tasting
- How to taste wines, describe their characteristics, and evaluate their quality using the WSET Level 3 Systematic Approach to Tasting Wine® (SAT)
What Is Included
- WSET Level 3 study pack: course manual, study guide, and laminated tasting card
- Approx. 50–60 wines tasted during the course
- Course handouts
- Tuition by Mine Bennett
- Examination (written and tasting)
- Digital WSET certificate and pin upon successful completion
Entry Requirements
- WSET Level 2 Award in Wine recommended, or equivalent knowledge
- Must be of legal drinking age in Ireland to participate in tasting (not a barrier to completing Unit 1)
- Photo ID required on the day of the exam
Recommended Study
This qualification requires a minimum of 84 hours total study time, including 32 hours of classroom time and approximately 51.5 hours of private study. This is a demanding course — please plan your study schedule accordingly.
Examination
- Unit 1: Closed-book exam — 50 multiple-choice questions plus a short written answer paper
- Unit 2: Blind tasting of two wines
- Both units assessed on the final day of the course
Upcoming Course Dates
September / October 2026
Mon 7 Sep, Tue 8 Sep, Mon 21 Sep, Tue 22 Sep, Mon 5 Oct, Tue 6 Oct (Exam Day)
Registration closes 1 August 2026 at 12pm. Study pack posted if booked by 1 August 2026.
Lead Educator: Mine Bennett. Limited to 12 students.
A welcome email with full venue details will be sent approximately 10 days before your course start date.
FAQs
Do I need Level 2 before enrolling?
It is strongly recommended. You should hold the WSET Level 2 Award in Wine or be able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge.
How much study is required outside of class?
Approximately 51.5 hours of private study across the course period. This is an advanced qualification and requires serious commitment.
How is the exam assessed?
Unit 1: 50 multiple-choice questions plus a short written paper. Unit 2: blind tasting of two wines. Both on the final day.
What certificate do I receive?
The WSET Level 3 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).
How many places are available?
Each course is limited to a maximum of 12 students.
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, visit wsetglobal.com
Why Learn with Vinspire Academy?
- Expert educators with real hospitality and drinks trade experience
- Small class sizes — maximum 12 students for focused, high-quality tuition
- Practical, industry-relevant delivery in a premium Dublin venue
- Recognised WSET course structure trusted by the Irish drinks and hospitality sector
Vinspire Academy is led by Philip Dunne, founder and head of education — an experienced sommelier and educator with a background in both trade and enthusiast teaching.
What Our Students Say
"Challenging but incredibly rewarding. The small class size made a real difference — you get proper attention and feedback throughout. I came away with a depth of wine knowledge I couldn't have got anywhere else."
— Aoife Brennan, Wine Buyer, Dublin
What's Next?
Completed Level 3 Wine? You've reached the pinnacle of WSET wine education at this level — well done.
Interested in spirits? Explore the WSET Level 2 Award in Spirits or WSET Level 3 Award in Spirits.