WSET® Level 3 Award in Wines
Greater detail about how the facets of wine production influence the different wine regions of the world. Developing your palate to better appreciate wine quality.
Introduction
The class-room based course over 8 sessions provides detailed analysis of the principal wines and spirits of the world.
Students benefit from in-depth tastings where they will learn to identify product style and quality. An trial assessment day where students practice written questions and tastings prepares them for the WSET examination.
Unit One
- The key factors in the production of wine: location, grape growing, winemaking, maturation and bottling
- How these key factors influence the key characteristics of the principal:
- still wines of the world: from Bourgogne to Bordeaux, Rioja to Napa, Mosel to Mendoza
- sparkling wines of the world: from Champagne to Prosecco, from Cava to Cremant
- How to apply your understanding to explain wine style and quality
Unit Two
- How to taste wines, describe their characteristics and evaluate their quality, using the WSET Level 3 Systematic Approach to Tasting Wine® (SAT)
WSET Specifications
Please read the course specifications here.
Unit 1 is assessed by a closed-book exam of 50 multiple-choice questions and a short written answer paper.
Unit 2 is assessed by a blind tasting of two wines.
At NZSFW, this qualification has a minimum requirement of 84 hours of study time:
- NZSFW classroom delivery: 56 hours
- Self-directed study: 50 hours of personal study and revision
- A 1 hour 50 questions multiple choice exam
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Although a large number of general interest wine enthusiasts join this course it is also ideally suited for those working in or wishing to enter the hospitality, beverage or wine industries.
Students can gain multiple WSET qualifications as a package by enroling in the NZ Certificate in Professional Wine Knowledge, Level 5. New Zealand students may be eligible for student loans or Fees Free Study for the Level 5 programme.
PRIVACY AND DATA PROTECTION
NZSFW privacy and data protection policy acknowledges that NZSFW will share personal data with WSET.
This includes name(s), date of birth, gender, email address and documentation provided for reasonable adjustment or special consideration applications.
The data passed to WSET will be handled in accordance with WSET's Privacy Policy.
WSET POLICIES
Please view the WSET exam and complaints policy here.
FURTHER STUDY Pathways
Graduates can go on to study:
CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS
Please view NZSFW enrolment, transfer, cancellation and refunds policy here.
Page Updated: 08 Nov 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do I need previous wine knowledge to enrol?
It depends on the course. WSET® Level 1 is designed for beginners, while Level 2 and Level 3 build on existing wine knowledge. Previous study is recommended for Level 2 and Level 3, and the Level 3 Award in Wines recommends that students hold the WSET® Level 2 Award in Wines.
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What will I learn during a WSET® wine course?
You’ll explore grape varieties, wine regions, wine production and the factors that influence wine style and quality. Depending on the level, you’ll also develop your understanding of wine tasting, evaluation, food pairing, storage and service.
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Will I taste wines during the course?
Yes. Wine tasting is an important part of WSET® study at NZSFW. Guided tastings help you develop your palate and connect theoretical knowledge with the characteristics of different wines.
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What is the difference between WSET® Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3?
Each qualification builds on the previous level:
- Level 1: An introduction to wine, grape varieties, wine styles, storage and service.
- Level 2: A broader understanding of international wine regions, grape varieties, wine styles and tasting.
- Level 3: Advanced study of wine production, regional influences, wine style and quality, alongside detailed tasting and evaluation.
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Are WSET® qualifications internationally recognised?
Yes. WSET® qualifications are internationally recognised and respected across the wine and hospitality industries.
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Is there an exam?
Yes. Each WSET® qualification includes an assessment. The exam format and requirements vary by level, so please refer to the individual course page for details.
Qualifications Gained
- WSET® Level 3 Award in Wines
Course Requirements
- Aged 18 or over
- English Requirements: NCEA Level 3, IELTS 7 or Advanced (C1) level or higher
- It is recommended that you hold the WSET® Level 2 Award in Wines.
- For information about Terms and Conditions, please click here.
Session Dates
Saturdays & Sundays, 9am - 4pm
Enrolment
Click on the date above and this will redirect you to the enrolment form, where you can pay online.
2026 Course Fees
This course is very expensive to run and all the teaching materials, exam fees and the majority of the wine must be imported. As the New Zealand Dollar is at a 10 year low against many other currencies, we have had to significantly raise the price for 2026. We will review the prices in June 2026.
Registration Deadline
Registrations close 2 business days before the course starts unless otherwise stated on the date. Late registrations may be available, please enrol and contact us regarding any late registrations.
STUDY HOURS
At NZSFW, this qualification has a minimum requirement of 84 hours of study time:
- - NZSFW classroom delivery: 56 hours (8 full days of tutor contact time)
- - Self directed study: 50 hours of personal study and revision
- - A 1 hour 50 questions multiple choice exam
Resit Fee: NZ$375
Course Fees
- NZ$2,650 (NZ$2,695 from 2027) (Includes WSET® fees & texts)
Qualifications Gained
- WSET® Level 3 Award in Wines
Course Requirements
- Aged 18 or over
- English Requirements: NCEA Level 3, IELTS 7 or Advanced (C1) level or higher
- It is recommended that you hold the WSET® Level 2 Award in Wines.
- For information about Terms and Conditions, please click here.
