WSET Level 1 Award in Beer at Napa Valley Wine Academy

The WSET Level 1 Award in Beer, offered by Napa Valley Wine Academy, America's leading beverage school, is an esteemed introduction from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) based in London. This entry-level course is ideal for anyone new to the beer industry or those who have a passion for beer and wish to expand their knowledge in a structured way.

As the premier WSET provider in the U.S., Napa Valley Wine Academy offers a comprehensive program that introduces the fundamentals of beer tasting and the characteristics of major beer styles. The course includes a systematic approach to tasting, using the WSET Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting® (SAT), and covers the basics of major beer ingredients and key brewing regions. Participants will explore a variety of beers from Europe, the Americas, and beyond, learning about beer production techniques and simple labeling laws.

This certification program is perfectly suited for those beginning their journey in beer education, whether for personal enjoyment or as a stepping stone in a professional career. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals starting roles in hospitality, retail, or service industries.

Completing the WSET Level 1 Award in Beer provides a solid foundation in beer, enabling you to confidently understand beer styles, engage in basic discussions about beer, and make informed decisions about beer selection and service. This one-day intensive program is an excellent introduction, recognized globally for setting a high educational standard and preparing students for further beer education.

Begin your beer education at Napa Valley Wine Academy, a repeated winner of the Wine Educator of the Year award, and experience a commitment to excellence that sets you apart in the beer community.

Learn from the Best

Imagine learning from top beer experts 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 Beverage World

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

• 6 hours of live in-person instruction 
• Registration and exam fees
• Tastings of 8 wines
• WSET Level 1 textbook and study workbook
• Access to our proprietary online pre-course study modules.

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!

Course Sessions:

1. An Introduction to Beer
2. Understanding the Systematic Approach to Tasting Beer
3. Storage and Service
4. Beer and Food Pairing
5. Mock examination
6. Exam: 45 minute, 30 multiple-choice questions

This course is offered as a 1-day intensive in-Person course in the following locations (dates may vary):

Napa - NVWA HQ - 2501 Oak St, Napa, CA 94559

Tampa - The Epicurean - 1207 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606

Santa Barbara - 1500 Alamo Pintado Rd, Solvang, CA 93463

Los Angeles - Coming Soon

All attendees must be at least 21 years of age.

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

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

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

This introductory beer certification course engages students visually, olfactorily, and gustatorily to deepen their understanding of beer. By the end of the course, you will be proficient in using a systematic approach to tasting and will recognize the main beer styles. Additionally, you’ll grasp the basic principles of beer and food pairing and will be able to make informed choices regarding your beer selections. Napa Valley Wine Academy provides essential Level 1 WSET exam study tips. Tasting is a vital component of the course, featuring guided tastings of 6-8 beers selected to help calibrate your palate to the WSET Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting.

Embark on your beer education journey with us at Napa Valley Wine Academy and gain a respected qualification that can open doors in the beer industry. Join us to begin a path of beer discovery and enjoyment that educates and inspires a deeper appreciation for the craft of brewing.