The world of spirits is vast, fascinating, and constantly evolving.
Whether you are a seasoned industry professional or a passionate enthusiast ready to take things to the next level, the WSET Level 3 Award in Spirits is the program for you.
And here is some exciting news:
This advanced certification is now available in Paris and online through Weeno — a first for our academy and a unique opportunity for anyone eager to gain an internationally recognized and in-depth expertise in spirits.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know before enrolling.
1. What is the WSET Level 3 Award in Spirits?
The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) is a UK-based institution globally renowned for its high-quality training in wine, spirits, and sake.
The WSET 3 Spirits is an advanced qualification designed for individuals who want to deepen their technical, historical, sensory, and commercial knowledge of major spirit categories.
This program offers a significant step up from Level 2, blending rigorous theory with extensive tasting practice.
Building on the foundation laid in Level 2, this course gives you a comprehensive understanding of spirits production — from raw material selection to post-distillation processes.
By the end of the course, you will not only be able to identify and assess spirits blind, but also explain in detail the factors that shape their style and quality.
Learning outcomes include:
- Tasting, analysing and evaluating spirits using a structured method
- Understanding the key characteristics of major spirit types
- Explaining production options and how they affect style and quality
- Applying your knowledge confidently in industry settings
- Advising customers, answering questions, and selecting spirits for a variety of contexts
In short, it is the perfect program for building real, professional-grade expertise in the world of spirits.
2. Who Should Take the WSET 3 Spirits?
This course is ideal for three main types of learners:
- Professionals: Retailers, bartenders, sommeliers, importers, sales reps, producers, educators… anyone looking to upskill or boost their CV.
- Career changers: Those transitioning into the world of spirits and/or mixology and wanting a solid foundation.
- Passionate enthusiasts: Spirit lovers (whisky, rum, cognac, gin, vodka…) who want to structure their knowledge and gain an expert-level understanding.
While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to have completed WSET Level 2 in Spirits or to have significant experience in the field before enrolling.
3. An In-Depth, Rigorous Program
The course runs over five intensive days (and 9 weeks online) and covers all key aspects of spirits production and evaluation in English.
What You’ll Learn:
- A detailed understanding of production techniques (raw material reception, fermentation, distillation, post-distillation, maturation)
- The different types of stills and their impact on the final product
- Key factors that influence the style and quality of spirits
- A detailed exploration of 11 major categories: Scotch whisky, Bourbon, Rye, Tennessee Whiskey, Cognac, Armagnac, Rum, Gin, Vodka, Tequila, Mezcal, Liqueurs
- An overview of 23 additional categories including Japanese, Irish and Canadian whiskies, Baijiu, Shochu, Pisco, Brandy de Jerez, Cachaça, Grappa, Calvados…
- Blind tasting of 60 spirits using the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT): see full SAT guide here
- Global spirits economics and commercial trends
For full details of the curriculum, check the official specification: WSET 3 Spirits Specification PDF.
The WSET 3 Spirits course is divided into two parts: a first 3-day session, followed by a break dedicated to practice and exam preparation.
The second 2-day session concludes with the final examination.
Your study materials will be provided upon registration, so you can start preparing in advance.
They include the key concepts covered during the course, along with tasting grids and self-assessment exercises.
To complete the qualification, a minimum of 84 hours is required:
- 30 hours of classroom time
- 51.5 hours of self-study and revision
- 2.5 hours for the final exam in a classroom
If you want to do it online:
- Full online access to the course videos
- Quizzes
- Flashcards
- Summary sheets
- Access to a WSET educator online
- Community of international students to discuss with
- English platform only
- Examination is run in Paris or Marseille
- No tasting kit included
- 9 weeks of online course to follow at your own pace
- 1-year access to the whole course content
The Final Assessment in English:
- 1 multiple-choice exam (50 questions)
- 1 short-answer written section (3 questions)
- 1 blind tasting of 2 spirits using the WSET SAT
You must pass both the theory and tasting components to earn the certificate.
Upon passing, you’ll receive your WSET Level 3 certificate, an official pin badge, and will be authorized to use the certified logo.
4. Why Take the WSET 3 Spirits with Weeno?
Weeno is a certified WSET Approved Programme Provider, known for its engaging teaching, expert instructors, and high pass rates (100% for WSET 2 Spirits).
Here’s what makes Weeno stand out:
- A first in Paris: Until now, this course was rarely offered in the capital. Weeno is one of the first centres to provide WSET Level 3 Spirits in person in Paris.
- Expert instructors: Our trainers are active industry professionals who bring technical topics to life. With over 4 years of experience at Weeno, they know how to teach with passion and precision.
- Top-tier spirits for tasting: Expect a carefully curated selection of mostly artisanal spirits, ideal for refining your palate and preparing for the tasting exam.
- Personalised support: From exclusive learning materials to revision guides, tasting sheets and quizzes — our small group format (max. 10 participants) ensures you get the individual attention you need to succeed.
- A warm and welcoming atmosphere: Courses are held in a cosy and intimate venue in the heart of the 9th arrondissement of Paris — perfect for focused learning and connection.
- Eligible for CPF funding: If you choose the bilingual or English version of the course, it’s eligible for CPF funding under the CLOE certification. The direct link to your CPF account is available on the course page.
5. How to Enroll in the WSET 3 Spirits Course at Weeno?
Signing up is easy:
- Head to the official course page: https://weenodrinksacademy.com/en/product/wset-level-3-award-in-spirits-in-paris/
- Choose the session that fits your schedule
- Complete the online registration
⚠️ Places are limited to maintain quality tasting and discussion — secure your spot now!
In Summary: A Unique Opportunity to Master the World of Spirits
The WSET 3 Spirits is one of the most comprehensive programs available for anyone wanting to go beyond casual tasting and into true expertise.
It is a smart career move for professionals in the sector — and an eye-opening experience for passionate learners.
Now available in Paris and online with Weeno, this is your chance to deepen your skills and join a global community of certified spirits experts.
👉 Ready to take the leap? Enroll now at Weeno and choose your option below:
