Embark on a comprehensive exploration of global viticulture with the WSET Level 4 Diploma, D3 Wines of the World course. This detailed study covers the still wines from renowned regions such as France, Italy, Spain, the USA, Australia, and more. Designed for those looking to deepen their expertise in wine, this module provides a nuanced understanding of the different grape varieties, viticultural practices, and regional wine laws shaping the world’s wine landscape.

As the most awarded WSET provider in the USA and recipient of the Riedel Global Wine Educator of the Year Award, Napa Valley Wine Academy offers unmatched excellence in wine education. Our commitment is reflected in our innovative teaching methods, expert faculty, and the comprehensive resources provided to each student. By studying with us, you gain access to an esteemed network of professionals and a pathway to distinguished credentials in the wine industry.

• 13 instructor-led webinars spanning key wine-producing regions and styles, each session lasting four hours.
• Comprehensive study support through digital guides, optional wine kits containing 102 carefully selected samples, and a robust online classroom.
• Two mock exams with feedback to fine-tune your examination strategies.
• Recorded webinars available for review to accommodate your schedule.
• Office hours with instructors

WINE KITS - Wine kits ordered >7 days before the course start date will be delivered by the course start. Wine kits ordered  <7 days of course start date will take 5-7 business days to get delivered. 

WSET Level 4 D3 Webinar Schedule

Course Start Date: March 24, 2025
15 sessions: Sat 9-1 (for 4 hrs) 3/29/25, 4/12/25, 4/26/25, 5/3/25, 5/17/25, 5/31/25, 6/14/25, 6/28/25, 7/12/25, 7/26/25, 8/9/25, 8/23/25, 9/6/25, 9/20/25 (9am-3pm, mock theory exam), 10/4/25 (9am-3pm, mock tasting exam)

Course Start Date: October 27, 2025

15 sessions: Sat 9-1 (for 4 hrs) 11/1/25, 11/8/25, 11/22/25, 12/6/25, 12/13/25, 1/3/26, 1/10/26, 1/31/26, 2/7/26, 2/21/26, 3/7/26, 3/21/26, 4/4/26, 4/18/26 (9am-3pm for mock theory exam), 4/25/26 (9am-3pm for mock tasting exam)

The course meticulously examines the still wines of key wine-producing countries, delving into regional differences, grape varieties, and production techniques that define the character and quality of wines. From the Old World classics to New World innovations, students gain a critical understanding of global wine production.

This flexible online course is designed to accommodate students from around the world, with live webinars and interactive content delivered through Zoom. The final examinations are conducted in person in Napa, California, offering multiple dates to fit diverse schedules.

Course & Exam Dates:

Online Course

Course Dates: October  30, 2023-May 13, 2024

Exam Dates: May 14-15, 2024 (October 23-24, 2024 and May 13-14, 2025 available with prior notice)

Registration Deadline: September 30, 2023

Webinar Time: 9am-1pm PST on Saturdays

Webinar Dates: 11/4/2023, 11/11/23, 11/18/23, 12/2/23, 12/16/23, 1/6/24, 1/20/24, 1/27/24, 2/10/24, 2/24/24, 3/9/24, 3/23/24, 4/6/24
Mock Theory Exam Webinar: 4/20/2024,  9am-3pm PST
Mock Tasting Exam Webinar : 4/27/2024, 9am-3pm PST

Online Course

Course Dates: March 25, 2024-October 22, 2024

Exam Dates: October 23-24, 2024 (May 13-14, 2025 and October 2025 available with prior notice)

Registration Deadline: February 25, 2024

Webinar Time: 9am-1pm PST on Saturdays

Webinar Dates: 3/30/2024, 4/13/24, 4/27/24, 5/11/24, 5/18/24, 6/1/24, 6/15/24, 6/29/24, 7/13/24, 7/27/24, 8/10/24, 8/24/24, 9/7/24
Mock Theory Exam Webinar: 9/21/2024,  9am-3pm PST
Mock Tasting Exam Webinar : 10/5/2024, 9am-3pm PST

Online Course

Course Dates: October  28, 2024-May 12, 2025

Exam Dates: May 13-14, 2025 (October 2025 available with prior notice)

Registration Deadline: September 28, 2024

Webinar Time: 9am-1pm PST on Saturdays

Webinar Dates: 11/2/2024, 11/9/24, 11/23/24, 12/7/24, 12/14/24, 1/4/2025, 1/25/25, 2/8/25, 2/22/25, 3/1/25, 3/15/25, 3/29/25, 4/5/25Mock Theory Exam Webinar: 4/19/2025,  9am-3pm PSTMock Tasting Exam Webinar : 5/3/2025, 9am-3pm PST

Entrance into this advanced course requires completion of WSET Level 4 Diploma Units D1 and D2. We recommend dedicating around 250 hours of study over six months to fully prepare for the extensive material and examinations involved.

To support your learning journey, we provide an optional tasting kit, access to our Online Global Campus for extra resources, and supplemental materials that include videos and guided reading questions. Our program is designed to not only prepare you for the exams but to significantly enhance your professional standing and personal enjoyment of wine.

Embark on this expert-level journey with Napa Valley Wine Academy, where your passion for wine and dedication to learning come together to forge a path to professional success and personal satisfaction in the world of wine.

 Who is this course designed for?

The WSET Level 4 Diploma, D3 Wines of the World course is designed for wine industry professionals and dedicated enthusiasts who have already completed the D1 and D2 units of the WSET Level 4 Diploma. It is ideal for those seeking advanced knowledge of the main wine regions of the world and a rigorous assessment of their tasting and theoretical understanding.

2. What prerequisites are required for this course?

Participants must have successfully completed the WSET Level 4 Diploma Units D1 (Wine Production) and D2 (Wine Business) before enrolling in the D3 Wines of the World unit. These prerequisites ensure that all students have a foundational understanding necessary to tackle the advanced concepts covered in D3.

3. How is the course delivered?

The course is delivered online through a series of 13 webinars, each four hours long, held via Zoom. These are complemented by extensive digital resources, optional wine tasting kits, and mock exams to prepare for the final assessment. All webinars are recorded and made available in the online classroom for later access.

4. What does the examination involve?

The examination consists of two parts conducted over two days. The first day features a three-hour and 20-minute written theory exam comprising multi-part, open-response style questions. The second day involves a practical blind tasting of 12 wines, divided into two flights. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to identify and assess the wines using the WSET Diploma SAT method.

5. How can I register for the course?

You can register for the course by visiting the Napa Valley Wine Academy’s website. The registration deadlines are typically set well in advance of the course start date to ensure timely distribution of course materials and wine kits.

6. What materials will I receive upon registration?

Upon registration, you will gain access to the WSET’s digital study guide, which serves as the primary textbook for the unit. Additionally, you will receive supplemental materials including vocab lists, worksheets, and access to our Online Global Campus for further learning and exam preparation.

7. What are the course dates and exam dates for 2024?

There are multiple course and exam sessions available throughout the year to accommodate different schedules. Please check our website or contact our administration for the most current information on course dates and available exam sessions.

8. Is there an option to taste wines as part of this course?

Yes, there is an optional wine kit available for purchase that includes 102 samples of wines discussed during the course. These samples are instrumental in enhancing your learning experience, especially for the practical elements of the course.

9. How long should I expect to study for this course?

Students should expect to dedicate a minimum of 250 hours of study over approximately six months, which translates to about 10-11 hours of study per week.

10. What support is available to students during the course?

Students have access to instructor feedback, a comprehensive online classroom, and the optional participation in mock exams. Additionally, our faculty is available for personal guidance, and students can interact with peers through our dedicated learning platforms.

Feel free to reach out to us with any further questions or for more detailed information on specific aspects of the WSET Level 4 Diploma | D3 Wines of the World course.