WINE COURSES

WSET Foundation Certificate

The Wine and Spirit Education Trust Foundation Certificate is the first level of course study in the WSET wine course program. This course is an introduction to wine and is perfect for beginners and those with a basic knowledge of wine.  This is the ideal place to start learning about wine. 

The Foundation course focuses on learning the art of wine tasting, pairing food and wine, and covers the characteristics of the major grape varieties.  We also delve into grapegrowing and winemaking, and include an overview on B.C. wines.

Upon successful completion, you will receive the WSET Foundation Certificate, which is a formal qualification in wine.  Our pass rate for the exam is 97%, so obviously we make sure you are well prepared for the multiple choice test.

There are two options:

  • Option 1: 4 week course - 1 evening per week from 6.00-9.00 pm.
  • Option 2: 1 day course - all day from 9.30 am-5.30 pm. The 1 day course is perfect for those who cannot commit to 4 evenings. The study booklet is mailed to you in advance of the course. We taste at least 16 wines during the day.

During the Foundation course you will learn about:

  • the main types and styles of wine
  • how to taste
  • matching food and wine
  • the characteristics of the classic grapes varieties
  • how wine is made
  • buying, cellaring and serving wine
  • local wines

You will taste some fantastic wines and experiment with wine and food matching exercises. It's all in a fun and relaxed atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to ask questions.  It's a great course - over 75% of students continue to the intermediate.

The Foundation exam involves a multiple choice paper consisting of 30 questions.  We have a 97% pass rate!  The exam takes place at the end of the 1 day course, and at the end of the last evening of the 4 week course. It usually takes students less than 25 minutes to complete.

Starter kit: If you are taking the 4 week course then you willl need to purchase a starter kit, consisting of 12 ISO tasting glasses and a carry bag ($45 plus tax), Everyone appreciates having their own professional wine tasting glasses so you can practice at home and then bring your own glasses to the course. You will be given the kit on the first day of the course and they are yours to keep.

If you are registering for a 1 day Foundation course there is NO need to buy the starter kit.  We will provide you with glasses for the day.

View sample wine log: 1 day course | 4 week course

Detailed Course Description and Exam Information:1 day course | 4 week course

Fine Vintage Ltd wine education courses are available in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna, Penticton and Calgary.