WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits – 100% Online Format

Your first step into the world of spirits

Do you want to understand spirits in a simple, clear, and professional way? The WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits is the ideal course for beginners, whether you’re working in hospitality, retail or distribution, or you’re simply passionate about spirits and want to build a solid foundation.

In just a few weeks, you’ll gain the confidence to talk about spirits, understand labels, identify styles, and serve them correctly all at your own pace through our interactive virtual campus.

What will you learn?

Throughout the course, with guidance from a WSET Certified Educator, you will:

• Learn how spirits are made and the key stages of distillation.
• Identify the principal types and styles of spirits.
• Recognise key base ingredients and how they influence style.
• Understand the basics of storage and service of spirits.
• Explore how cocktails are built and why they work.
• Learn how to taste spirits using the WSET Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT).

Course structure

• Format: 100% online via More than Wines Virtual Campus
• Duration: 4 weeks
• Modules: 7
• Course hours: 6 hours of guided study (plus recommended review time)
• Language of instruction and exam: English
• Includes:
• Access to the official WSET digital study materials
• Interactive activities, videos and revision quizzes
• Educator guidance provided by WSET throughout the course
• Tasting support and cocktail recommendation practice
• Final exam
• Official WSET digital certificate

Next courses 2025 - 2026

Course code           Start date                 End date

O1SP2602                          27/10/2025                       23/11/2025 

O1SP2603                          12/01/2026                       08/02/2026 

O1SP2604                          09/03/2026                       05/04/2026 

O1SP2605                          04/05/2026                       31/05/2026 

O1SP2606                          06/07/2026                       02/08/2026 

Course content

Module 1 – What are spirits and how are they made?

• Identify the raw materials used in spirits production
• Understand the key steps in producing spirits: fermentation, distillation, dilution

Modules 2, 3, 4 & 5 – Types and styles of spirits

• Identify key categories: vodka, gin, rum, tequila, whisky, brandy, liqueurs, flavoured spirits, aromatised wines, etc…
• Describe characteristics and production differences
• Learn to assess spirits using the WSET Level 1 SAT
• Identify aromas, flavours, and characteristics of different spirits

Module 6 – Mixing with spirits

• Understand the components of cocktails and how they interact
• Explore examples of classic cocktail families
• Learn correct storage practices
• Know how to serve spirits and basic guidelines for glassware and mixers

Module 7 – Revision

• Mock multiple-choice feedback examination

Assessment and certification

• Exam format: 30 multiple-choice questions
• Exam duration: 45 minutes
• Pass mark: 70%
• Certification: Official WSET digital certificate and pin

The exam can be taken either online via Remote Invigilation or in person by joining one of the paper-based exam sessions scheduled across Spain by More than Wines in any of its satellites sites.

In both cases, students must contact academia@morethanwines.com when the course is finished to confirm their preferred option and exam date with at least 21 days prior the desired date.

All exams are corrected by WSET London and results are sent to the student.

Why choose this course?

Our 100% online course allows you to learn at your own pace while enjoying full support from experienced WSET Certified Educators. The WSET’s Global Campus includes all the tools you need to engage with the content, practise tasting, and build your knowledge step by step.

Whether you're entering the world of spirits professionally or simply want to understand your favourite drinks better, this course is the perfect first step.