Live, interactive Zoom class — one day (09:00–17:00) with a WSET Certified Educator. No travel required: your tasting samples are posted to you, and you join from home or work. Private team sessions available on request.
The WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits is the ideal starting point for bar staff, hospitality teams, retail, and enthusiasts. You will explore the main styles of spirits through sight, smell and taste.
Spirits you will study
Aligned with the WSET Level 1 syllabus, the course introduces:
- Whisky / whiskey (including Irish whiskey)
- Rum and other sugar-cane spirits
- Gin and other flavoured spirits
- Vodka
- Tequila
- Brandy / Cognac
- Liqueurs and aromatised drinks as covered in Level 1
- How to serve spirits and build a balanced cocktail
Irish whiskey sits within the wider whisky category — and as the Irish Whiskey & Spirits Institute, we bring practical Irish spirits context to every class.
What is included
- Live Zoom tuition (one day)
- Posted spirit sample pack (20 ml samples)
- WSET study materials
- Online exam (30 multiple-choice questions) via remote invigilation
- WSET certificate and lapel pin on successful completion
Price: €250 (Ireland). GBP pricing on request for UK & NI. Irish businesses: Skillnet funding may help.
2027 Level 1 dates (Tuesdays)
23 Feb, 30 Mar, 27 Apr, 25 May, 29 Jun, 27 Jul, 31 Aug, 28 Sep, 26 Oct 2027.
WSET Level 3 Award in Spirits is planned for 2027.
Explore more: Irish whiskey courses · Spirits courses hub · Gin · Whisky · Rum · Vodka · All WSET courses
Frequently asked questions
Is this an Irish whiskey-only course?
No. Level 1 covers whisky/whiskey (including Irish whiskey), rum, gin, vodka, tequila, brandy/Cognac and liqueurs.
Are classes live or pre-recorded?
Live, interactive Zoom with a WSET Certified Educator. Sample packs are posted to you.
Do you offer private team training?
Yes — bars, hotels, retailers and distributors.
What does Level 1 cost?
€250 in Ireland. GBP pricing is available on request for the UK and Northern Ireland.