WSET Level 4 Diploma | D4 Sparkling Wine

Your course registration includes:

• Access to WSET's D4 textbook and NVWA's proprietary online classroom, including supplemental learning materials like vocab lists, dozens of mock questions, worksheets, and opportunities for graded answers.
• Four live, instructor-led Zoom sessions, which are also recorded for flexible learning
• Twice-weekly open office hours with our Diploma Program Director, Noelle Hale. Bring your questions!
• Registration for D4 exam

A curated list of recommend wines will be included in the course. These 12 wines will be tasted during the live class sessions for calibration with the instructor. A limited number of optional wine kits are available for purchase from our partner's website. It includes 6 full sized bottles, which are tasted during class sessions throughout the course. Wine kits will be delivered right before your first tasting webinar.

You are automatically registered for the next available in-person exam in Napa, CA upon course enrollment, but you may change your exam date within your course Exam Options page. Click here to see all exam options.

WSET Level 4 D4 Webinar Schedule & Exam Dates

• Course Start: August 17, 2026 — 4 sessions: 8/20/26, 9/3/26, 9/17/26, 10/1/26 (generally Thursdays 5-7 pm PT, although the class on 8/20 will run from 4-6pm PT)
• Exam: Oct 20, 2026
  
• Course Start: November 2, 2026 — 4 sessions: 11/4/26, 11/11/26, 11/18/26, 12/2/26, 12/9/26, 12/16/26 (Thursdays 5-7 pm PT)
• Exam: Jan 20, 2027
  
• Course Start: April 5, 2027 — 4 sessions: (Thursdays 5-7pm PT) 4/8/27, 4/22/27, 5/6/27, 5/20/27
• Exam: June 9, 2027
  
• Course Start: August 23, 2027 — 4 sessions: (Thursdays 5-7 pm PT) 11/4/27, 11/18/27, 12/2/27, 12/16/27
• Exam: October 19, 2027
  
• Course Start: November 1, 2027 — 4 sessions: (Thursdays 5-7 pm PT) 11/4/27, 11/18/27, 12/2/27, 12/16/27
• Exam: January 19, 2028

Who is the WSET Level 4 Diploma | D4 Sparkling Wine course for?

This course is specifically tailored for individuals pursuing advanced wine studies, particularly focusing on sparkling wines. It is ideal for those who have already completed the D1 and D2 units of the WSET Level 4 Diploma, encompassing wine production and wine business fundamentals.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in this course?

To enroll in the D4 Sparkling Wine unit, you must have successfully completed the D1 (Wine Production) and D2 (Wine Business) units of the WSET Level 4 Diploma. Receipt of results from these units is not required before beginning the D4 unit.

How is the course delivered?

The course consists of 4 instructor-led virtual class sessions via Zoom, supplemented by extensive online course materials. These materials include activities, videos, mock questions, and guided reading, all accessible through our digital platforms to support your learning experience.

What does the course fee include?

The course fee provides access to WSET's digital study guide, online Global Campus, and NVWA's supplemental learning materials. It also covers the examination fees.

What is the structure of the exam?

The D4 Sparkling Wine exam involves a 90-minute written assessment composed of multiple-part open-response style questions and a blind tasting of three sparkling wines. This exam evaluates both your theoretical understanding and practical tasting skills.

Where and when are the exams held?

Exams are conducted in person in Napa, CA. Specific dates are available throughout the year and are communicated at the beginning of the course. Participants must register for the exam as part of their course enrollment.

What if I need to retake the exam?

Students who do not pass the exam on their first attempt can register to retake it. There is a fee for re-examination, and students may need to wait for the next available scheduled exam date.

How long does it take to complete the course?

The course typically spans approximately two months, starting from the registration date to the final exam date. Students are expected to commit at least 30 hours of study time over this period.

Can I study at my own pace?

Yes, the course is designed to accommodate flexible learning. While the virtual class sessions are scheduled, the online components can be completed at your own pace, allowing you to manage your studies alongside other commitments.

Can I order a wine kit?

A limited number of optional wine kits are available for purchase from our partner's website. It includes 6 full sized bottles, which are tasted during class sessions throughout the course. A link to purchase the kit will be included in your course registration confirmation email. Wine kits will be delivered right before your first tasting webinar.

What support is available to students during the course?

Students have access to the NVWA online learning platform, which includes the D4 textbook, vocab lists, worksheets, dozens of mock questions, opportunities for graded answers, and more. Instructors are also available during live sessions and via email to assist with any course-related inquiries.

For any additional information or specific questions, please contact our course advisory team directly.