Begin your prestigious journey into the world of wine with our WSET Level 4 Diploma, starting with the D1 – Wine Production course. This foundational module introduces you to the intricate details of wine production, setting the stage for advanced learning. Explore how decisions in the vineyard and winery influence wine style, quality, and price, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex wine production process.

At Napa Valley Wine Academy, you're not just gaining an education; you're becoming part of an elite community. As a beacon of excellence in wine education and the only twice-recognized Riedel Global Wine Educator of the Year, our courses are designed to offer more than knowledge—they offer a pathway to becoming a leading professional in the industry​​.

• Eight instructor-led webinars via Zoom
• Access to a dedicated online classroom with all necessary study materials
• Recorded webinars available for review
• Optional wine kit for hands-on learning

WSET Level 4 D1 Webinar Schedule

Course Start Date: January 6, 2025

8 sessions: (all Th 5-7pm PST) 1/9/25, 1/16/25, 1/23/25, 1/30/25, 2/6/25, 2/13/25, 2/20/25, 2/27/25

Course Start Date: May 12, 2025
8 sessions: (all Th 5-7pm PST) 5/15/25, 5/22/25, 5/29/25, 6/5/25, 6/12/25, 6/26/25, 7/10/25, 7/17/25

Course Start Date - Sept 22, 2024

8 sessions: (all Th 5-7pm PST) 9/25/25, 10/2/25, 10/9/25, 10/16/25, 10/30/25, 11/6/25, 11/13/25, 11/20/25

The D1 module covers all aspects of wine production from vine to vat, including viticulture and vinification processes. You'll learn how different practices affect the final product, preparing you for more specialized subjects in future modules.

The course offers flexible learning via live webinars, supplemented with comprehensive online resources. All live sessions are scheduled in the evening to accommodate various time zones and lifestyles.

A passing score on the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines is required to enroll. This course is ideal for those looking to deepen their professional wine knowledge or pivot to a career in the wine industry.

Course Dates and Registration Deadlines

• January to March Session: Course starts on January 1, 2024, with the exam on March 6, 2024. Registration closes on December 31, 2023.
• May to August Session: Begins on May 20, 2024, with the exam on August 4, 2024. Register by May 19, 2024.
• September to December Session: Starts on September 23, 2024, with the final exam on December 8, 2024. Sign up by September 22, 2024.

All webinars are conveniently timed from 5-7 PM PST, accommodating a broad range of schedules and allowing for evening participation regardless of your daytime commitments.

Why Choose Us

Choosing Napa Valley Wine Academy for your WSET Level 4 Diploma means selecting an institution recognized for its excellence and unique educational approach. With accolades like the Riedel Global Wine Educator of the Year Award and a track record of success, we are uniquely equipped to guide you through your wine education journey. Our courses are more than a learning experience; they are an opportunity to join an elite community of wine professionals and enthusiasts who are passionate about advancing their expertise.

What prerequisites are required for the WSET Level 4 Diploma D1 Wine Production course?

To enroll in the WSET Level 4 Diploma D1 Wine Production course, you must have successfully passed the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines. This ensures that all participants have a solid understanding of wine fundamentals before advancing to more complex topics.

Can I enroll in the course if I am new to wine studies?

The WSET Level 4 Diploma is designed for individuals with significant prior knowledge. If you are new to wine studies, we recommend starting with lower-level WSET courses, such as Levels 1 and 2, to build a strong foundational knowledge before progressing to Level 4.

How is the course delivered?

The course is delivered through a combination of eight instructor-led webinars via Zoom, supplemented by a comprehensive suite of online learning materials and support resources available in our online classroom. All webinars are recorded and available for later review to accommodate different learning paces and time zones.

What materials will I receive as part of the course?

You will receive access to an online classroom containing study worksheets, vocabulary lists, and other supportive resources. An optional 12-bottle wine kit is also available for purchase, which is used during the instructor-led tastings to illustrate winemaking techniques.

What is the format of the exam, and where is it held?

The exam is a 90-minute written test consisting of multi-part, open-response style questions. It must be taken in person in Napa, CA, on the designated exam date associated with your course session.

When will I receive my exam results?

Exam results are issued via email approximately three months after the exam date. All exams are graded at WSET's headquarters in London.

What happens if I cannot attend one of the scheduled webinars?

All webinars are recorded and posted in the online classroom the next business day. You can review the recordings at any time throughout the course to catch up or refresh your knowledge.

Can international students enroll in the course?

Yes, international students are welcome to enroll in the course. Keep in mind that the live webinar times are listed in Pacific Standard Time (PST), and the final exam must be taken in person in Napa, CA.

What support will I have access to during my studies?

You will have access to instructor support throughout the course, along with peer interaction in the online classroom. Our learning platform is designed to foster an interactive and supportive learning environment.