What to Expect?
This short course consists of five modules which cover topics from wine ingredients and production methods, to how to taste wine, to different types of wine. Each module is designed to be interactive, so expect to post in discussion forums, watch videos, complete quizzes and reflect on tasks. Completing all the modules should take you six hours, excluding time for exam revision. You can work through the course at your own pace over the next four weeks.
For best performance, WSET's Online Classroom should be used on the current or previous major releases of Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. Because Instructure products are built using web standards, WSET's Online Classroom runs on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, or any other device with a modern web browser.
WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits Online
Each course has a set start and finish date, with clear guidelines on progression, however there are no fixed times to log-on as there is no "live" delivery of content. Students can complete their learning at times that suit them. Students will learn through a range of independent and/or group activities supported by videos and quizzes, designed to achieve the required learning outcomes to prepare for the examination. Throughout the course, students will have access to a subject-specialist educator who’ll provide feedback on any assigned exercises and respond to course-related queries.
This WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits, a four-week wine course designed to give you a taste of the wonderful world of spirits!
A beginner level introduction to spirits for those starting a career in the industry or pursuing an interest in spirits.
For individuals new to the subject, this qualification offers a hands-on introduction to the world of spirits. You’ll explore the main styles and types of spirits through sight, smell, and taste to develop an understanding of the key factors affecting flavours and aromas. Upon successful completion you will receive a WSET certificate and lapel pin.
Once you have completed the online study, you MUST complete the 45 min exam at one of our face-to-face classes at Media One Hotel, Media City, Dubai on the following dates:
Online Course Dates Available
Dates: 12 January - 8 February (4 weeks)
Exam date: 22 February 2026. Registrations close: 2 January 2026
Dates: 9 March - 5 April (4 weeks)
Exam date: 26 April 2026. Registrations close: 27 February 2026
Dates: 4 May - 31 May (4 weeks)
Exam date: 7 June 2026. Registrations close: 24 April 2026
Dates: 6 July - 2 August (4 weeks)
Exam date: 10 August 2026. Registrations close: 26 June 2026
Your Online Educator
Your educator will be there to guide you through your learning. They will give feedback and guidance on your tasks and tasting notes. You are also welcome to contact them directly via the course 'Chat' or 'Inbox' at any point during the course. After this four week course finishes, your educator will no longer be available to assist you.
Topics Covered
What are spirits and how are they made?
List and state the purpose of the four key stages used in spirits production.
Identify the two types of still, state how they are used and what styles of spirit they can produce.
Identify the production processes that affect the aroma, sweetness and colour of a spirit.
Cognac, vodka and an introduction to tasting
Name the types of Cognac and the defining aromas of Cognac and vodka. Name the raw material used to make Cognac and vodka.
Identify key production processes that influence the characteristics of Cognac and vodka.
State the meaning of key Cognac labelling terms.
Whisk(e)y
Name the principal categories and types of whisk(e)y and their defining aromas. Name the raw material used to make whisk(e)y.
Identify key production processes that influence the characteristics of the principal categories and types of whisk(e)y.
State the meaning of key labelling terms used for the principal categories and types of whisk(e)y.
Rum and Tequila
Name the principal types of rum and the principal categories and types of Tequila and their defining aromas. Name the raw material used to make rum and Tequila .
Identify key production processes that influence the characteristics of the principal types of rum and the principal categories and types of Tequila.
State the meaning of key labelling terms used for the principal categories and types of Tequila.
Flavoured spirits and aromatised wines
Name the principal categories and types of flavoured spirits and aromatised wines and state their defining aromas.
Identify key production processes that influence the characteristics of the principal categories and types of flavoured spirits and aromatised wines.
State the meaning of key labelling terms used for the principal categories and types
Mixing with spirits
State the two sets of scales used to create a balanced cocktail.
Name four core cocktail families and some examples from each family.
Revision and resources
Mock multiple-choice feedback examination which can be attempted as many times as the student likes.
Included in this course
All tuition and access to WSET’s online portal
Course guide book – ‘An Introduction to Spirits’ accessible in the Course Resources area of your portal
Exam Fees
Domestic courier costs for your lapel pin
WSET Digital Certificate and metal Lapel Pin when you pass
Exam
You have 45 minutes to complete the exam which comprises 30 multi-choice questions and a pass mark of 70%.
Below are the results you can attend and the marks required.
Pass: 70% and above
Fail: 69% and below
Results are normally known up to 4-6 weeks later. WSET inform us and yourself by email. The certificate for successful candidates will be available digitally as soon as you receive your results and the lapel pin will be delivered to you within 2-3 days.
If you are unsuccessful, you are able to retake the exam without having to retake the course if you do not wish to. The cost to resit the exam is currently AED 450. Please contact us prior to booking.