The course is based around a 9-week structured online programme with a recommendation of 10 hours study per week to cover the online activities and read the relevant chapters in the textbook. There is also a 1 day tasting tutorial. The course follows a weekly structure, but it allows the student to work ahead or catch up on the activities and forums. There are no set times to log into the course as there are no live chats or webinars.

All study materials are included in the online course.

The course prepares the student for the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines examinations and are guided by a WSET educator. The student can contact the educator any time for the duration of the scheduled course, should they have any questions. Each week includes a series of independent and/or group activities that guide the student through the key wine regions of the world looking at the factors in the vineyard and winery that influence wine styles.

Attendance at a tasting session, introducing the Level 3 tasting technique is required in order to gain an advanced knowledge of the Systematic Approach to Tasting Wine© which is not only used in most major international competitions but also the standard required for the blind tasting exam paper element of the exam.

Students are advised to taste a range of wines during their studies. A list of recommended tasting samples can be found in the Course Specifications PDF. Students can post their tasting notes in the Online Classroom for review by the educator. Additional tastings may be included at our discretion.

Students will require access to a computer (recommended) and/or HTML5 compatible mobile or tablet with the following minimum requirements: Internet Explorer 10, Firefox 25.0, Safari 6, Chrome 30.0 or other HTML5 compatible; web browser with Javascript and cookies** enabled; Adobe Reader XI or equivalent; Internet access (broadband recommended)

Please note:

• Wines are not included in the cost of this course and although it will greatly enhance your learning experience, it is not compulsory to taste any wine.
• Lessons are online but students are required to attend a tasting calibration session and sit their examination with us in person.
• If either your course books or certificate are required outside of South Africa, please contact us for total course fees.

It is considered a prerequisite for candidates planning to study for the WSET Level 4 Diploma. This highly professional qualification is taught by MWs, MW students, WSET Diploma graduates and other senior industry specialists.

This course is NOT suitable for beginners and you will need to have either completed WSET Level 2 or have a similar level of knowledge to be able to succeed in this course. If you have any questions, please email info@thewinecentre.co.za

Who it is aimed at

• Serious wine lovers who wish to learn about wines in a rigorous and structured manner and gain an internationally-recognised wine qualification.
• People employed in the drinks and hospitality industries in a supervisory capacity, needing core information to advise management and customers with authority and make informed selections of wines.

The Exam

The exam at the end of the course consists of two parts. A blind tasting paper of two wines and a theory paper of both multiple choice and short answer questions. A mark of 55% is required on both the tasting and theory papers to pass.