As a gin producer, I’ve always been deeply involved in the world of spirits - understanding their production, exploring flavors, and creating something truly unique. But when I started the WSET Spirits certifications, I knew I needed a good study plan to nail these exams. I got 100% on both Level 1 and 2, and I want to show you how you can do great too!
Why I Took the WSET Spirits Certifications
Even though I work with spirits, I wanted to learn more than just gin-making. WSET gave me a chance to really understand all kinds of spirits better. Plus, having this certification looks good in the industry - their curriculum is structured and globally recognized ! So, I didn't just want to pass - I wanted to really know and learn more. Scoring 100% wasn’t just a goal; it became a reflection of my commitment to the craft. And now, I’m eager to share what I’ve learned with you.
The Keys to Acing the WSET Spirits Exams
I focused on three main things:
1. Getting the Basics Down
- Spirits Production: The steps involved in creating spirits, from raw material processing to fermentation to distillation and post-distillation.
- The Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT): Learning to objectively evaluate spirits based on appearance, nose, palate, and overall quality.
- Cocktail Balance: Understanding how spirits work with other ingredients to create harmony in cocktails (this is particularly relevant for Level 2).
If you’re new to these concepts, don’t worry - I’ll be sharing blogs and YouTubes on these basics so you can build a strong foundation. Once you understand the core principles, everything else (like memorizing details) becomes much easier.
2. Systematically Memorizing Details
- For Level 1, focus on the key differences between major spirits categories (e.g. producing whisky using grains, rum using sugar canes, tequila using agaves, re-distillation or maceration for gin).
- For Level 2, dive deeper into specific styles, sub-regions, and production laws (e.g. oak maturation vs inert vessel, Scotch whisky labelling terms, different Rum regions).
Memorizing these details can feel overwhelming, but I used several strategies to make it manageable:
- Comparison Tables: Organize key facts (e.g., raw materials, distillation methods, regions, flavor profiles) into visual charts.
- Flashcards: Write down technical details, such as ABV ranges or production requirements, and review them daily.
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Focus on What’s Tested: You don’t need to memorize every single detail to pass, but knowing more will help you aim for perfection.
For example, I developed this table to help me remember the types of raw materials for different spirits more systematically.
3. Practice Tests
Practice tests were a game-changer for me. They showed me what I needed to work on and made me feel ready for exam day. I made some practice tests to help other students since there aren't many out there.
However, I noticed there aren’t many mock tests available for the WSET Spirits exams. To help other students, I decided to create multiple sets of practice tests for both Levels 1 and 2, which I’ll be sharing with you. These tests are designed to closely simulate the real exam and challenge your understanding.
How Much Time Do You Need to Prepare?
The time required to prepare depends on your starting point and familiarity with spirits. Here’s some sharing based on my own experience:
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Level 1
If you are a new beginner to spirits, you’ll likely need 5-6 days of focused preparation for the exam. This includes understanding the basic key concepts, reviewing the study guide, memorizing key differences between spirits, and doing practice questions.
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Level 2
For Level 2, the material is more detailed, so another 1 week preparation will be needed, in addition to the existing knowledge from Level 1. Most of this time went toward:- Learning the technical details (e.g., sub-regions, production laws, and tasting nuances).
- Practicing the SAT for more complex spirits.
- Completing as many practice tests as possible.
No worries! With our study notes, videos, and practice tests, you’ll significantly save time and be able to focus on what’s most important for the exams. These resources are designed to streamline your learning and help you prepare more effectively! =)
Final Tips to Ace Your WSET Spirits Exams
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Understand the Basics First
Don’t rush into memorizing details without first understanding the core concepts. Once the basics are clear, everything else will fall into place.
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Practice Tasting
The SAT is a key part of the WSET Spirits program, so practice tasting a wide range of spirits. Take detailed notes and focus on consistency.
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Do as Many Practice Tests as Possible
Practice tests are the best way to prepare. Use resources from your school, online references, or the practice tests I’ve developed.
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Stay Consistent
Study regularly, even if only for an hour a day. Consistency is better than cramming, and it allows you to absorb the material more effectively.
Conclusion
Getting perfect scores wasn't easy, but having a good plan made it possible. Use these tips and resources to help you do well too.
Remember, you don't have to know everything about spirits - just focus on what matters for the exam. Good luck!
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