How to Pass WSET Level 3 Certification
Many wine lovers or professionals dream of turning their passion into a profession. One of the best ways to do this is by becoming certified through the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET). The WSET offers multiple levels of certification, with WSET Level 3 being one of the most advanced, desired wine certificates. In this blog, l will share my experience to give you an idea of passing this certificate. I will also share some tips about WSET 3 tasting grid for blind tasting.
What is the WSET level 3?
The WSET Level is a wine course program, and required to pass the exam is a multi-part theory test and blind tasting. Enrolling in this course requires completing the level a and 2 exams.
Theory and Written Test Exam
The written exam consists of multiple-choice and four short-answer questions, all of which must be completed quickly.
To pass the written exam, you'll need to demonstrate a thorough knowledge of wine production, grape varieties, viticulture, winemaking practices, wine styles, and wine-tasting techniques.
Examples of relevant questions include those;
Where is Vouvray?
What is Grolleau?
Which region in Northern Rhône produce %100 Syrah grape variety?
What is Trincadeira?
What are the requirements for AVA?
What kind of wine will you find in Lodi?
Where is Okanagan Valley?
These questions are just examples I made to show you what you should study to pass WSET Level 3.
WSET LEVEL 3 EXAMPLE QUESTIONS
How do different types of oak (e.g., American vs. French oak) affect a wine's flavor profile and aging potential?
How does using different types of wine barrels (e.g., new vs. used barrels) affect the final wine product?
What are the key factors contributing to the development of volatile acidity in a wine, and what are the potential consequences of high volatile acidity levels?
How does using different types of wine closures (e.g., cork vs. screw cap) impact a wine's aging potential and overall quality?
Explain the concept of "microoxygenation" and its potential impact on wine flavor, aroma, and color.
How does using different types of wine fermentation vessels (e.g., stainless steel vs. oak) affect the final wine product?
What are the key factors that contribute to the development of wine faults, and what are the potential consequences of wine faults?
How does the process of wine blending work, and what are the key considerations when blending different grape varieties and wine styles?
What are the main differences between Italy's wine regions and wine styles?
How do the wine bottling and labeling process impact the final wine product and consumer perception?
Which type of oak is known for imparting a stronger vanilla flavor in wine?
a) American oak
b) French oak
c) Hungarian oak
How do wine closures impact the aging potential of a wine?
a) Cork closures allow for slow and steady oxygenation, leading to a longer aging potential
b) Screw cap closures prevent oxygenation, leading to a shorter aging potential
c) Both A & B
What are the potential consequences of high volatile acidity levels in a glass of wine?
a) It leads to a perception of harshness on the palate
b) It leads to a perception of sweetness on the palate
c) It leads to a perception of fruitiness on the palate
How does microoxygenation impact wine color?
a) It leads to a deeper and more intense color
b) It leads to a lighter and more translucent color
c) It has no significant impact on color
What are the key considerations when blending different grape varieties and wine styles?
a) The acidity levels and tannin levels of the grapes
b) The flavor profile and aroma of the grapes
c) Both A & B
What is the primary difference between Italy's wine regions and wine styles?
a) The grape varieties used
b) The winemaking techniques used
c) Both A & B
How do the process of wine bottling and labeling impact consumer perception?
a) It leads to a perception of higher quality and prestige
b) It leads to a perception of lower quality and lack of prestige
c) It has no significant impact on consumer perception
How do different types of wine fermentation vessels affect the final wine product?
a) Stainless steel fermentation leads to more fresh and fruity wine, while oak fermentation leads to a more complex and nuanced wine
b) Oak fermentation leads to more fresh and fruity wine, while stainless steel fermentation leads to a more complex and nuanced wine
c) Fermentation vessels have no significant impact on the final wine product
What are the key factors that contribute to the development of wine faults?
a) Poor winemaking practices and sanitation
b) Exposure to heat and light c) Both A & B
How does the process of wine blending work?
a) Wines are blended together before fermentation
b) Wines are blended together after fermentation
c) Both A & B
Please remember that these are only examples, and to be more accurate and up-to-date information, you should always consult a professional WSET instructor.
The practical wine-tasting component consists of a blind tasting of two wines. You'll be asked each wine to identify its grape variety(ies), place of origin, style, quality level, and age. You'll also be asked to describe the wine's appearance, nose, palate, and overall quality using the WSET's standard tasting terminology.
I will also give you some valuable tips to implement your blind-tasting exam.
The WSET will give you a WSET 3 tasting grid to help you practice and prepare for the exam. During your blind tasting exam, they expect you to follow their systematic approach tasting grid. To pass the practical exam, you'll need to identify two wine characteristics correctly.
To prepare for the WSET 3 tasting grid, you must follow their tasting grid, divided into four tiers: appearance, nose, palate, and conclusions.
Let’s start with Appearance:
Check the wine to see if there is anything that isn't clear, and say "clear" if everything looks good and there is no haze. Then, look at the color of the wine. Each grape has a different color, like Pinot Noir, which is ruby, and Cabernet Sauvignon, which is more purple. The region also affects the color and intensity of the wine. You also need to say how intense the color is. You will also need to talk about other things you see, like wine legs, bubbles, etc.
Let's say we're tasting Oregon Pinot Noir, and we can say something like this about how it looks:
The wine has a clear appearance with a pale-intensity of ruby color, and it has medium to plus legs or tear
The Nose: The key element of wine tasting is the nose.
The nose is the most important part of tasting wine, and here are some essential things to keep in mind.
First of all, make sure the wine has a clean aroma and that there are no faults with it. Then, say this with confidence on your blind tasting exam.
Now it's time to look at the smells of the wine, but first, you should ask yourself if the aromas are light, medium, medium-plus, or powerful. The intensity of the aromas is a good way to figure out what kind of grape it is. For example, the intensity of a Petit Chablis will be light, while that of an Australian Chardonnay will be medium to medium plus.
Now it's time to name the aromas characteristic of wine, followed by the wine's primary, secondary, and tertiary aromas. Grapes and fermentation are the primary causes of aroma. After the wine has been fermented and made, it will have secondary aromas. Oak will give off tertiary smells as it ages.
The Palate
The palate is also an important thing to know about wine. The first rule is to check the wine's sugar level to see if it's dry or off-dry. Knowing the sugar level is essential because one grape, like Riesling, can be dry and off-dry. For example, Alsatian Riesling is dry, but German Riesling from Mosel can be off-dry. Second, say how sharp the wine's acidity is and whether it's low, medium, or high. Please also note that the WSET 3 tasting grid has terms like "medium (-)" and "medium (+)," so when you talk about acidity, tannin, and alcohol level, you should be very clear.
You will also need to confirm fruit and other aromas on the palate from the nose and describe the wines' finishes. Is the finish long or short? If you can answer all of these questions, you have a great chance of doing well on your blind-tasting exam.
Conclusion of Blind Tasting
Here's something where you need to believe in yourself and your taste. And ask yourself if this wine is good, good enough, or excellent. What do you think? Have confidence in yourself and be sure of your answer. Then, ask yourself one more question: is this wine too young, or can you drink it now? How will it age? You will do well if you are honest with yourself and answer these questions.
As you can see, passing the WSET Level 3 exam requires significant knowledge about wine. If you're serious about becoming certified, we recommend enrolling in a study with additional resources.
TIPS FOR PREPARING
In addition to taking a study course, you can do a few other things to prepare for the exam. First, brush up on your math skills—you'll need them for both the written and practical exams. Next, ensure you understand all aspects of wine production, from grape growing to winemaking. Finally, taste as many different types of wines as possible so that you're comfortable with identifying various grape varieties, regions, styles, etc.
WSET Level 3 Study Materials
The Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) offers a comprehensive range of study materials for all levels of certification, including the WSET Level 3. The WSET's official study guide is a great place to start your preparation for the exam.
In addition to the study guide, we also recommend the following books:
The Oxford Companion to Wine by Jancis Robinson
Benefits of WSET Level 3 Certificate
Improved knowledge and understanding of wine: The WSET Level 3 course covers a wide range of wine-related topics, including grape varieties, wine production, wine regions, and wine tasting and wine and food pairing. By completing the course and earning the certificate, you will gain a thorough understanding of these topics and be able to apply this knowledge in a professional setting.
Enhanced professional credibility: The WSET Level 3 certificate is recognized and respected by employers, hospitality and wine industry professionals worldwide. Obtaining this credential will demonstrate your commitment to your profession and dedication to continuous learning and personal development.
Improved job prospects: Many employers in the wine and hospitality industries value WSET certification and may be more likely to hire candidates with a WSET Level 3 certificate. This credential can also help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions.
Enhanced ability to make informed wine recommendations: With your improved knowledge of wine, you will be able to make informed recommendations to your guests or clients, helping them to make informed decisions and enhance their wine-drinking experiences.
Greater enjoyment of wine: You may enjoy it as you learn more about it! The WSET Level 3 course will help you develop your palate and understand the factors contributing to a wine's flavor and character, which can deepen your appreciation for the drink.
Conclusion:
Passing the WSET Level 3 exam is no small feat—but it's achievable if you're willing to put in the time and effort. The WSET Level 3 exam takes time and effort, but it's well worth it if you want to turn your passion for wine into a profession. With the proper preparation, you can pass the exam and take your first steps toward starting a new and exciting career in wine.
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