WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits | Online Course

WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits | In - Person - Napa Valley Wine Academy

WSET Level 2 Wine Online | On - Demand Course - Napa Valley Wine Academy

Explore the World of Spirits with Confidence

You love cocktails and spirits but wish you understood them better. The terminology, styles, and production methods can feel confusing, and you want a structured way to learn the essentials—without feeling overwhelmed.

Now imagine tasting with purpose, recognizing what makes each spirit unique, and confidently describing aromas, flavors, and styles. Whether you’re mixing a cocktail or serving guests, you understand the fundamentals of how spirits are made and why they taste the way they do.

The WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits (Online) at Napa Valley Wine Academy, America’s most awarded wine and spirits school, is your perfect starting point. This four-week course includes three virtual, instructor-led webinars covering tastings and theory, along with 12 months of online access to engaging learning materials. Your dedicated instructor is available throughout the course to answer questions and guide your journey.

You’ll explore the main spirit categories through sight, smell, and taste, gaining practical skills and a professional foundation in spirit production, tasting, and service. Upon passing your online exam (30 multiple-choice questions), you’ll receive your official WSET certificate and lapel pin, a globally recognized mark of achievement.

Join a supportive, interactive learning environment built for beginners and professionals alike, and start your spirits education with confidence and clarity.

➡️ Download the Course Specification

Course Date

Nov 5 - Dec 2, 2025

Jan 7 - Feb 3, 2026

Mar 4 - Mar 31, 2026

May 6 - June 6, 2026

Students

NOTE: WSET now issues Digital Certificates and Badges as a fast, sustainable, and secure alternative to shipping paper certificates and physical pins.

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WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits Online at Napa Valley Wine Academy

Napa Valley Wine Academy, America's premier wine and spirits school, brings you the WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits online. This introductory course is provided by the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and offers a streamlined approach for those new to the spirits industry or anyone with a keen interest in spirits looking to broaden their knowledge in a structured way.

As the leading WSET provider in the U.S., we offer an engaging online format that covers the basics of spirits styles and types. The course incorporates the WSET Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting® (SAT) and focuses on the fundamental characteristics of main spirit categories and cocktail-making principles.

This online certification is perfect for those embarking on their spirits education journey, whether for personal enjoyment or as a stepping stone in a professional spirits industry career. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals starting roles in hospitality, retail, or any service industry.

What You Will Achieve

Gain Basic Spirits Knowledge: Acquire the skills to describe spirits accurately and develop a systematic approach to tasting.
Understand Spirit Types: Learn to identify different styles of spirits through sensory evaluation.
How to Serve Spirits: Learn the essential techniques for properly serving spirits to enhance their flavors and aromas. This includes understanding the correct glassware, optimal serving temperatures, and the basics of cocktail crafting to showcase the spirits at their best.

Our course is designed to be interactive and enjoyable. Through live webinars, video lectures, engaging activities, quizzes, and direct instructor support, you’ll delve into the world of spirits through sight, smell, and taste while understanding key principles involved in the mixing and serving of spirits.

Choosing the right school for your WSET certification can be daunting, but with over a decade of experience, we’ve refined our approach to suit various learning styles. Our unique online program combines flexibility with an immersive educational experience that ensures thorough preparation for your certification exam.

Sign up today for our four-week program and take the first step towards your spirits education. Begin with Napa Valley Wine Academy, an award-winning leader in spirits education, and join a global community of spirits enthusiasts in a dynamic and supportive online environment.

Download the Course Specification

Liz Pirnat

Head WSET Spirits Instructor, DipWSET, Level 3 Spirits

Liz is our resident WSET Spirits expert and educator, awarded as our WSET Certified Educator for Spirits; holding the WSET Level 3 Spirits award certification as well as the Diploma in Wine & Spirits from the WSET. Liz’s spirits expertise includes numerous other certifications and awards including Executive Bourbon Steward from the Stave and Thief Society. Her journey into the spirited world of whiskey began during her studies for the WSET Diploma, leading her to the renowned Springbank Whisky School in Campbeltown, Scotland, an experience she cherishes as her most memorable whiskey adventure. Beyond her whiskey expertise, Liz is also a Master of Baijiu, Baijiu Apprentice, and holds the esteemed “T” Certification from the Consejo Regulador del Tequila. Currently, Liz leads as the head spirits instructor for Napa Valley Wine Academy, teaching WSET Spirits Level 1 and 2, guiding students with the same passion that first ignited her whiskey interest. Her educational influence extends beyond the world of spirits; she is also an active member of her local school’s Board of Education, demonstrating a commitment to learning in all its forms. Liz’s personal passions are as dynamic as her professional pursuits. An avid Peloton enthusiast, she finds joy in the fusion of fitness and technology. Moreover, her love for musical theater adds a creative and artistic dimension to her multifaceted personality.

Stephen Staples

dipWSET, WSET Certified Beer Instructor, Instructional Designer

Stephen Staples is a distinguished Napa Valley Wine Academy graduate, where he achieved his WSET Level 4 Diploma, showcasing his extensive knowledge of alcoholic beverages. His expertise is particularly notable in the beer sector, underscored by his role as a Certified WSET Beer Instructor, making him a leading authority in beer education. In addition to this prestigious certification, Stephen is an Advanced Cicerone. He holds a Graduate Certificate in Brewing from Federation University, marking him as a profound expert in beer. His international journey in the alcohol industry includes managing a homebrew supply shop in Australia, selling cell counting microscopes to wineries in Germany, and engaging in alcohol retail in the United States. Furthermore, Stephen’s deep involvement in the beer world is highlighted by his status as a National BJCP Judge, underlining his authoritative knowledge in beer judging and his dedication to maintaining high standards within the beer industry. Beyond his professional achievements, Stephen is a retired high school teacher who has continuously expanded his qualifications in the beverage world. He holds both an Advanced Cicerone certification and a WSET Diploma, illustrating his unparalleled commitment to mastering the intricacies of beer, wine, and spirits. When not immersed in the world of beer or furthering his studies in wine and spirits, Stephen finds joy and relaxation in searching for surf, building igloos, or exercising his Australian Shepherd, Huxley. His multifaceted career and personal interests reflect a deep passion for the beverage industry and an unceasing pursuit of knowledge.

Live webinars are about 1.5 hours and recorded in case you are unable to join the live session.

2025-03-05	3 Webinars	Tuesdays @ 4pm PST (7pm EST) – March 11, 18, 25	Liz Pirnat
2025-05-07	3 Webinars	Tuesdays @ 1pm PST (4pm EST) – May 13, 20, 27	Liz Pirnat
2025-06-18	3 Webinars	Tuesdays @ 10am PST (1 pm EST) - June 24, July 1, 8	Liz Pirnat
2025-09-10	3 Webinars	Tuesdays @ 4pm PST (7pm EST) – Sep 16, 23, 30	Liz Pirnat
2025-10-08	3 Webinars	Tuesdays @ 1pm PST (4pm EST) October 14, 21, 28	Liz Pirnat
2025-11-05	3 Webinars	Tuesdays @ 4pm PST (7pm EST) – Nov 11, 18, 25	Liz Pirnat

Learn from the Best

Imagine learning from top wine experts, including Master Sommeliers and Masters of Wine, who bring not just their knowledge but also their passion for wine into every lesson. At Napa Valley Wine Academy, your education is led by these experts, who are eager to share their insights and experiences with you, helping you to not only learn but also love the journey.

Consistently High Success Rates

You want results, and our track record speaks for itself. We're proud to have one of the highest pass rates globally for WSET exams. This success comes from our commitment to providing you with the best preparation possible, ensuring you feel confident and well-equipped to excel in your exams.

Tailored Online Resources

Your learning needs are unique, which is why we offer a comprehensive suite of online tools. These resources are designed to fit your lifestyle, allowing you to study whenever and wherever it suits you best. Whether you prefer hitting the books at dawn or reviewing notes during a lunch break, we've got you covered.

Personalized Support

At Napa Valley Wine Academy, you’re not just another student. Our mentoring and coaching sessions are tailored to address your specific needs, helping you overcome any challenges and make the most of your study time. We're here to guide you every step of the way.

Get Ready Before You Arrive

Feel prepared from day one with our online pre-course study modules available to you right after enrollment. These modules help lay a solid foundation so that when you step into our classroom, you’re already on your way to becoming a wine expert.

Join Thousands of Satisfied Learners

Each year, over 6,000 students choose to start their wine education with us. Join a community of like-minded enthusiasts and professionals who are all on their journey to mastering wine. Here, you're part of a group that supports and grows together.

Recognition and Respect in the Wine World

When you study with us, you join the ranks of the most awarded and respected WSET approved program provider in the world. Your certification from Napa Valley Wine Academy is not just a piece of paper—it’s a passport to opportunities in the wine industry and a marker of excellence recognized globally.

We’re Invested in Your Satisfaction

We know that you’ll love your experience with us because our current students do! They consistently tell us how much they appreciate our engaging courses, the expertise of our instructors, and our supportive, community-focused environment. We’re dedicated to your satisfaction and committed to making your learning experience both enriching and enjoyable.

Choosing Napa Valley Wine Academy means placing yourself at the forefront of wine education. Equip yourself with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in the wine industry or enhance your personal passion for wine. We’re excited to be part of your journey and are here to support you every sip of the way.

Your Registration Fee Includes

DEDICATED INSTRUCTOR for the 4-week portion of the course, and continuing with 12 months access to the online course material which includes lecture videos, quizzes, a mock exam and more.
LIVE WEBINARS which include instructor-led tastings, theory review, and the ability to ask questions. (LINK TO WEBINAR SCHEDULE on help.napavalleywineacademy.com)
TEXTBOOK for Level 1 is downloadable in the first online course module, which you can access right after registration.
Registration and exam fees

Pass the Exam and Display Your Credentials Instantly! As soon as you pass, you'll get a digital badge and certificate to celebrate your accomplishment. Share it instantly on LinkedIn, social media, or with your professional network to showcase your achievement!

The basic principles of spirit production
The main types and styles of spirits
How to serve spirits
Factors affecting the flavor of spirits
How to describe spirits using the WSET Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting Spirits® (SAT)

This is a four-week, semi-synchronous (combination instructor-led and self-paced) course with a fixed start/end date. However, you will have 12 months of access to the online learning material, allowing you to study spirits in a way that fits your schedule.

Online Exam:

You must register for the online exam within 12 months of the course date, at least 30 days before the exam date via your online course. WSET Level 1 in Spirits online exam dates (subject to changes):

2025-10-11
2025-12-10
2026-02-11
2026-04-15
2026-06-13
2026-08-12
2026-10-10
2026-12-09

All attendees must be at least 21 years of age.

PREREQUISITE: This is a beginner course suitable for those without previous spirits knowledge.

RECOMMENDED STUDY HOURS needed to pass the exam are 8-12. Please plan on investing 4-6 hours of study prior to the day of class for your WSET Level 1 success.

For more information and complete details on the course requirements, please download the Specification.

System Requirements: This course is taught 100% online; students will require access to a computer with the following minimum requirements: Firefox 25.0, Safari 6, Chrome 30.0, or other HTML5 compatible with Javascript and cookies enabled. Adobe Reader XI or equivalent. Internet access (broadband recommended).

Online Exam Requirements:

Primary Device: All online invigilated exams must be sat on either a laptop or desktop computer. Your chosen device must have a working webcam, microphone and speakers, and conform to the below minimum specifications.

Secondary Device: For most online invigilated exams you will also require a mobile phone to be used as a secondary camera. Click here to see the full details of the online exam requirements.

Check out this website and video to learn "How to take the Online Exam?"

Q: What is the WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits online course schedule?
A: The course is self-paced and accessible 24/7, featuring a range of learning materials, including videos, interactive guides, activities, quizzes, and mock exams. Additionally, there are three (3) instructor-led 60-minute Zoom webinars scheduled; the dates and times are listed in the first module of your online course. If you purchased a Spirits Kit, it will arrive before your First Webinar Date (not the start of the online course access).
Q: Are the webinars essential to the WSET Level 1 Spirits course, and what if I miss a live session?
A: While the webinars are an integral part of the course, providing orientation, lectures, and guided tasting sessions, they are not the entirety of the course. If you cannot attend a live webinar, don’t worry – all sessions are recorded and posted for later viewing.
Q: How do I communicate with instructors and fellow students during the course?
A: Interaction with instructors and peers is facilitated through the webinars and the online GROUP, all of which take place during the four-week instructor-led portion of the course.
Q: How soon do I get access to the online course after purchase?
A: You will receive email links to access the first module of your online course within 30 minutes of your purchase.
Q: Is there a textbook for the WSET Level 1 Spirits course, and how do I access it?
A: Yes, there is a downloadable textbook for Level 1, which is accessible within the online course.
Q: How long do I have access to the online course material?
A: After the initial 4-week instructor-led portion, students retain access to the online course materials for a full 12 months.

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