WSET Level 2 Award in Spirits

rows of agave plants

WSET Level 2 Award in Spirits

This specialized spirits course has been developed to provide in-depth knowledge of Vodka, Rum, Gin, Whiskies and Liqueurs.  This qualification is ideal for anyone in the drinks industry – Sales reps, LCBO, bartenders and trade employees working with a variety of spirits, answering customer queries and making informed selections of spirits or those simply with a fascination for spirits wishing to learn more.

An intermediate-level qualification exploring spirits and aromatised wines for those working in the industry or spirits enthusiasts. This qualification is intended for beginners wishing to learn about a wide range of spirits or those seeking to build on the introductory knowledge gained with the WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits.

You’ll learn about the fundamental production methods and principal raw materials, discovering how they are used to make the key spirit styles. You’ll also explore the key practices and principles of serving spirits and the use of spirits in cocktails.

Established in 1969, WSET has over five decades of experience in developing and delivering qualifications. Over 100,000 people a year choose to study with WSET. So what sets us apart?

A WSET qualification:

  • Gives you internationally recognized credentials.
  • Provides you with new skills and knowledge.
  • Develops your tasting and assessment skills.
  • Helps you to stand out amongst your peers.

Program Information

What you’ll learn studying WSET Level 2 Award in Spirits:

  • How to taste and describe spirits using the WSET Level 2 Systematic Approach to Tasting Spirits ® (SAT)
  • The techniques used during the four stages of spirits production: processing the raw material, alcoholic fermentation; distillation; and post-distillation operations
  • How techniques used during the four stages of production determine the style of a spirit
  • How aromatised wines are made
  • How a balanced cocktail is made and examples in four notable cocktail families (the spirit-forward, the short sour, the highball and the long sour)
  • How local production traditions, coupled with local laws, are used to create different styles of spirits in the following categories:
    • fruit spirits
    • whisky/whiskey
    • sugar cane spirits
    • Tequila and Mezcal
    • vodka
    • flavoured spirits (spiced rum, flavoured vodka, gin, aniseed spirits, bitter spirits/amaro, cocktail bitters, liqueurs)

WSET Level 2 Award in Spirits for:

  • Individuals currently working in the beverage industry
  • Spirits enthusiasts
  • Stages of Production: Raw Products through Post Distillation operations
  • Ranges- Part 1: Fruit Spirits, Whisky, Sugar Cane Spirits, Agave Spirits, Vodka
  • Ranges- Part 2: Flavouring and colouring spirits, flavoured spirits, aromatized wines
  • Ranges – Part 3: Balance, cocktail families
  • Tasting Samples
  • Exam guide and Regulations

All necessary materials are included in course fees. Online learners will need to purchase their own tasting samples.

Prerequisites

  • In-Person: Learners must be 18+ before the start date of the course.
  • Online: Must be of legal drinking age.
  • General computer literacy, internet navigation and at least a good level of English language proficiency.
  • There are no educational prerequisites for this course.

Technology Requirements

  • Working laptop with webcam, microphone and high-speed internet access for online components.
  • Device to record exam e.g. smart phone or tablet for online examinations.

To successfully complete your program you will be required to take an examination consisting of 50 question multiple-choice questions.  55% is required to achieve a pass.  Online learners will take the examination online by remote invigilation, you will need:  One device with a webcam and microphone to take your exam on such as a laptop or MacBook; plus, one device to record you taking the exam: a smart phone or tablet.

Online Learners may also be take the exam in person, please contact Barb Tatarnic at ccovi@brocku.ca

Successful candidates receive a WSET certificate and lapel pin and will be able to use the associated WSET certified logo.

Intake Details

Explain how classes usually run for a delivery mode. If multiple delivery modes are offered add another section for that delivery mode. eg.

For the ASY- Online Synchronous delivery of this course, learners can expect two hours of synchronous lecture per week. Alone with asynchronous learning components of 4 hours. Please see the registration page for upcoming intake class times.

For in-person intakes of this course, learners will have to come to the specified location at designated time to receive instruction and testing. Please see the registration page for dates and times for upcoming sessions.

Related Programming

Close up on empty wine glasses on the table in front person tasting wine

WSET Level 2 Award in Wines

Brock CCOVI Logo
Course DetailCourse Info
Course CodeCOOL 9N554
Date of Next StartJan 20, 2025
Price$745
OSAP EligibleNo
Delivery Mode(s)ASY - Asynchronous Online
Duration5 weeks
FrequencyWeekly
Intake DetailsNext and more intake info
Scheduled Class Time(s)See registration

Register

Register for an upcoming session, see more upcoming sessions or get notified when registration opens.

Need help?

Let us help you find the solution you are looking for or let us know if something is missing.

Get updates

Subscribe to our newsletter to get updates on new programs, workshops and opportunities.