WSET Level 2 Learning Outcomes

Learn how to confidently taste and evaluate wines while delving into the nuances of wine tasting; explore the growing environment in Napa, the intricacies of winemaking and the identification of classic and regionally significant grape varieties while exploring where these grape varieties grow around the world and their respective wine styles. Our dynamic presentations include an array of experiences, guiding you through a global wine exploration. Participants will gain insights into:

Tasting and evaluating wines, building confidence in talking about wine

The grape growing environment and its influence on wine styles

The processes involved in wine production and aging

Connecting wine label terms to the style and quality of the wine in the bottle

Diversity of grape varieties of international and regional importance

Prominent wine regions in France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Argentina, the United States and more

The production, grape varieties and styles of sparkling and fortified wines

Mastering the concept behind pairing food with wine

Study Materials

Upon enrolling, you will be shipped a WSET Level 2 Study Pack wich includes a study book and workbook. To enhance your at-home studies before coming to class, we will also email you login credentials to our specially-created pre-course platform where you will find key course information as well as study assistance.

Examination

A 50-question, multiple-choice exam is scheduled for 4:00 - 5:00pm on the final day of the course, requiring a 55% pass rate. Successful candidates will be awarded a WSET certificate, an internationally recognized formal qualification in wine, along with an elegant lapel pin. Our courses boast a 97% pass rate, though exam retakes are available if needed.

Download the WSET Level 2 Wine course specification.

Testimonials

Hear from our 2024 WSET Level 2 Bootcampers in Napa, click here!

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.

Study Materials

Upon enrolling, you will be shipped a WSET Level 2 Study Pack which includes a study book and workbook. To enhance your at-home studies before coming to class, we will also email you login credentials to our specially-created pre-course platform where you will find key course information as well as study assistance.

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!

Examination

A 50-question, multiple-choice exam is scheduled for 5:30 PM on the final day of the course, requiring a 55% pass rate. Successful candidates will be awarded a WSET certificate, an internationally recognized formal qualification in wine, along with an elegant lapel pin. Our courses boast a 97% pass rate, though exam retakes are available if needed.

Prerequisites

No prerequisites are required for course registration. Nonetheless, we suggest beginning with the WSET Level 1 Award in Wines to build a solid foundation of wine knowledge.

WSET Level 2 Bootcamp in Napa Valley

Our bootcamp takes place over four (4) days in the beautiful Napa Valley wine region. Your WSET classroom time will be augmented with winery and vineyard visits so you gain a deep understanding of grape growing and winemaking practices.

Your instructors are top educators in the industry, involved in winemaking, sommelier services, and other segments of the wine industry.

You will be treated to over 60 wines over the course of your four days, including a glass of bubbles upon arrival and specialty pourings at wineries.

Lunch is included on two of your touring days, and you will experience the true hospitality of the valley with a winemaker dinner.

Get to know some of Napa valley’s key winemakers and industry movers and shakers, as well as creating your own wine community with your fellow students.

Price of USD $2195 includes:

All winery visits and tastings

Luxury bus transportation from and to Napa Valley Wine Academy

A gourmet winemaker dinner

2 gourmet lunches

Model Bakery sweets on day one with Napa Valley sparkling wine and stickies

WSET Level 2 study materials, examination, certificate, and lapel pin

Comprehensive in-class WSET instruction and tastings

Expert and industry-involved educators

Full payment is required at registration.

Itinerary Highlights

The bootcamp offers a meticulously planned itinerary, blending classroom learning with practical winery visits in the picturesque settings of Napa Valley and its environs. Participants will engage in in-depth tastings, explore viticulture and winemaking practices, and enjoy food and wine pairings, all under the guidance of expert winemakers and industry professionals.

Itinerary:

DAY 1

Our classroom venue for the entire Bootcamp is Napa Valley Wine Academy
2501 Oak Street
94559 Napa, CA

9.00 AM
Focus: grape growing and vineyard management

Start your day in the classroom. Meet your fellow classmates and learn how to taste and evaluate wine.

Winery Visits:
After lunch our coach will take us to two different Napa Valley AVAs, where we will walk through vineyards, see cellar equipment up close -and answer all your questions along the way

Day 2

8:00 AM
Focus: Winemaking in Napa Valley
Start a day with pastries from Napa famous Model Bakery

Cooperage visit – see how wine barrels are toasted and shaped

Red winemaking

Gourmet Lunch

Sparkling winemaking

Day 3

9.00 AM
Focus: Classic grape varieties, wine tasting, exam preparation

2 winery visits in the morning with a focus on red and white winemaking..
Classroom in the afternoon.

Day 4

9.00 AM
Focus: Grape varieties of the world, exam preparation – classroom day.
4:00-5:00 Exam

1. Systematic tasting technique, wine service and storage
2. Factors influencing style, quality and price of wine, label terminology
3. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay – the grapes and wine style differences from around the world – the basics on Burgundy
4. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc – the grapes and wine style differences from around the world – the basics on Bordeaux
5. Syrah/Shiraz, Grenache and Riesling – the grapes and wine style differences from around the world – the basics on the Rhone and Germany
6. Other important white grape varieties/wines, sweet wines
7. Other important black grape varietals/wines
8. Sparkling & fortified wines (Sherry and Port)

All attendees must be at least 21 years of age.

PREREQUISITE: This is an intermediate course and suitable for students with basic knowledge. Students with no previous knowledge should consider either our Wine 101 course or the WSET Level 1 Award in Wine

RECOMMENDED STUDY HOURS needed to pass the exam with distinction is 28 Hours. (17 Guided Learning Hours and 11 hours of Private Study)

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

Download the WSET Level 2 Systematic Approach to Tasting Wine®