The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) is a globally recognized institution that offers a range of certifications in the field of wine and spirits. Among these, the WSET Level 2 certification is a popular choice for individuals looking to enhance their knowledge and skills in the industry. But what can you do with a WSET Level 2 certification? In this article, we’ll explore the various career paths, opportunities, and benefits that come with achieving this prestigious certification.
Understanding WSET Level 2 Certification
Before we dive into the opportunities, let’s first understand what WSET Level 2 certification entails. This certification is designed for individuals who have a basic understanding of wine and spirits and want to expand their knowledge. The course covers a range of topics, including:
- Major grape varieties and wine regions
- Wine production methods
- Spirits production methods
- Wine and food pairing
- Wine service and storage
To achieve the certification, candidates must pass a multiple-choice exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of these topics.
Career Opportunities in the Wine Industry
A WSET Level 2 certification can open doors to various career opportunities in the wine industry. Here are a few examples:
Wine Sales and Retail
With a WSET Level 2 certification, you can work in wine sales and retail, helping customers choose the perfect wine for their needs. You can work in wine shops, supermarkets, or online retailers, and use your knowledge to advise customers on wine and food pairing, wine storage, and more.
Wine Service and Hospitality
If you enjoy working in the hospitality industry, a WSET Level 2 certification can be beneficial for a career in wine service. You can work in restaurants, bars, or hotels, and use your knowledge to advise customers on wine choices, manage wine lists, and provide excellent customer service.
Wine Education and Training
If you’re passionate about sharing your knowledge with others, you can consider a career in wine education and training. With a WSET Level 2 certification, you can teach wine courses, lead wine tastings, and provide training to wine industry professionals.
Wine Writing and Journalism
If you have a way with words, you can consider a career in wine writing and journalism. With a WSET Level 2 certification, you can write for wine publications, blogs, or websites, and share your knowledge with a wider audience.
Career Opportunities in the Spirits Industry
A WSET Level 2 certification is not just limited to the wine industry. You can also use your knowledge to pursue a career in the spirits industry. Here are a few examples:
Spirits Sales and Retail
With a WSET Level 2 certification, you can work in spirits sales and retail, helping customers choose the perfect spirit for their needs. You can work in spirits shops, supermarkets, or online retailers, and use your knowledge to advise customers on spirits and mixers, spirits storage, and more.
Spirits Service and Hospitality
If you enjoy working in the hospitality industry, a WSET Level 2 certification can be beneficial for a career in spirits service. You can work in bars, restaurants, or hotels, and use your knowledge to advise customers on spirits choices, manage spirits lists, and provide excellent customer service.
Spirits Education and Training
If you’re passionate about sharing your knowledge with others, you can consider a career in spirits education and training. With a WSET Level 2 certification, you can teach spirits courses, lead spirits tastings, and provide training to spirits industry professionals.
Other Career Opportunities
A WSET Level 2 certification can also be beneficial for careers outside of the wine and spirits industry. Here are a few examples:
Event Planning and Management
With a WSET Level 2 certification, you can work in event planning and management, organizing wine and spirits events, tastings, and festivals.
Marketing and PR
If you have a background in marketing and PR, a WSET Level 2 certification can be beneficial for working with wine and spirits companies, helping them to promote their products and services.
Import and Export
With a WSET Level 2 certification, you can work in the import and export industry, helping to source and distribute wine and spirits products.
Benefits of WSET Level 2 Certification
In addition to the career opportunities, there are several benefits to achieving a WSET Level 2 certification. Here are a few:
Enhanced Knowledge and Skills
A WSET Level 2 certification demonstrates that you have a solid understanding of wine and spirits, including production methods, regions, and styles.
Increased Confidence
With a WSET Level 2 certification, you’ll have the confidence to advise customers, answer questions, and make recommendations.
Improved Career Prospects
A WSET Level 2 certification can open doors to new career opportunities and advancement in the wine and spirits industry.
Networking Opportunities
As a WSET Level 2 certified professional, you’ll have access to a network of like-minded individuals and industry professionals.
Conclusion
A WSET Level 2 certification is a valuable asset for anyone looking to pursue a career in the wine and spirits industry. With this certification, you can work in wine sales and retail, wine service and hospitality, wine education and training, and more. You can also use your knowledge to pursue a career in the spirits industry or in related fields such as event planning, marketing, and import and export. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, a WSET Level 2 certification can provide you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed.
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in pursuing a WSET Level 2 certification, here are the steps to get started:
Find a Course Provider
The WSET has a network of approved course providers around the world. Find a course provider near you and enroll in a WSET Level 2 course.
Study and Prepare
Study the course materials and prepare for the exam. The WSET provides a range of study materials, including textbooks, online resources, and practice exams.
Pass the Exam
Pass the multiple-choice exam to achieve your WSET Level 2 certification.
Join the WSET Alumni
As a WSET Level 2 certified professional, you’ll be part of the WSET alumni network, with access to exclusive events, resources, and networking opportunities.
By following these steps, you can achieve a WSET Level 2 certification and unlock a world of opportunities in the wine and spirits industry.
What is WSET Level 2 Certification, and how does it benefit wine professionals?
The WSET Level 2 Certification is an intermediate-level qualification in wine and spirits, offered by the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET). This certification is designed to provide a deeper understanding of the world of wines and spirits, covering major grape varieties, wine regions, and wine styles. By obtaining this certification, wine professionals can demonstrate their expertise and commitment to their profession, which can lead to career advancement opportunities and increased earning potential.
WSET Level 2 Certification is highly regarded in the wine industry, and it is recognized by many employers as a benchmark of knowledge and skills. With this certification, wine professionals can work in various roles, such as wine sales, wine service, and wine education. Additionally, the certification can also be beneficial for those who want to start their own wine-related businesses or pursue further education in the field of wine and spirits.
What are the key topics covered in the WSET Level 2 Certification course?
The WSET Level 2 Certification course covers a wide range of topics related to wines and spirits. The course starts with an introduction to the world of wines and spirits, covering the main types of wines, grape varieties, and wine regions. It then delves deeper into the major wine regions of the world, including France, Italy, Spain, and the New World. The course also covers the main spirits categories, including gin, vodka, rum, and whiskey.
In addition to the theoretical knowledge, the course also covers the practical aspects of wine service and wine and food pairing. Students learn how to taste and describe wines using the WSET’s Systematic Approach to Tasting, and how to pair wines with different types of food. The course also covers the business and commercial aspects of the wine industry, including wine labeling, packaging, and marketing.
How can I prepare for the WSET Level 2 Certification exam?
To prepare for the WSET Level 2 Certification exam, it is recommended that students complete the WSET Level 2 Certification course, which is offered by approved program providers around the world. The course typically includes a combination of classroom instruction, online learning, and self-study. Students should also read the WSET Level 2 Certification study materials, which include a comprehensive textbook and online resources.
In addition to formal study, students can also prepare for the exam by tasting a wide range of wines and spirits, and by practicing their tasting and descriptive skills using the WSET’s Systematic Approach to Tasting. It is also recommended that students join a study group or online community to connect with other students and get support and guidance throughout their studies.
What career opportunities are available to those with WSET Level 2 Certification?
WSET Level 2 Certification can lead to a wide range of career opportunities in the wine industry. Graduates can work in wine sales, wine service, and wine education, and can also pursue careers in wine marketing, wine journalism, and wine consulting. Many graduates also go on to start their own wine-related businesses, such as wine import/export companies, wine bars, and wine shops.
In addition to these career opportunities, WSET Level 2 Certification can also be beneficial for those who want to work in the hospitality industry, such as in hotels, restaurants, and bars. The certification demonstrates a level of expertise and knowledge that can be attractive to employers, and can lead to career advancement opportunities and increased earning potential.
Can I use WSET Level 2 Certification to pursue further education in wine and spirits?
Yes, WSET Level 2 Certification can be used as a stepping stone to pursue further education in wine and spirits. The certification is recognized by many wine education institutions around the world, and can be used to gain entry into more advanced wine programs, such as the WSET Level 3 Certification and the WSET Diploma.
In addition to the WSET programs, WSET Level 2 Certification can also be used to pursue other wine education programs, such as the Certified Sommelier program and the Certified Wine Educator program. Many graduates also go on to pursue degrees in wine business, hospitality, and marketing, and use their WSET Level 2 Certification as a way to specialize in the wine industry.
How long does it take to complete the WSET Level 2 Certification course?
The length of time it takes to complete the WSET Level 2 Certification course can vary depending on the program provider and the format of the course. Typically, the course takes around 28 hours of classroom instruction, which can be completed over several weeks or months. In addition to the classroom instruction, students are also expected to complete a significant amount of self-study and homework.
Some program providers also offer online courses, which can be completed at the student’s own pace. These courses typically include a combination of online learning materials, video lessons, and interactive quizzes, and can be completed in as little as 6-8 weeks. Regardless of the format, students should allow at least 3-6 months to complete the course and prepare for the exam.
What is the cost of the WSET Level 2 Certification course?
The cost of the WSET Level 2 Certification course can vary depending on the program provider and the format of the course. Typically, the cost of the course ranges from $800 to $1,200, which includes the course materials, instruction, and exam fee. Some program providers may also offer additional costs for things like wine tastings, study groups, and online resources.
In addition to the cost of the course, students should also budget for the cost of study materials, such as textbooks and online resources. Some program providers may also offer payment plans or financing options, which can help make the course more affordable. Regardless of the cost, the WSET Level 2 Certification is a valuable investment in one’s career and education.