Local Wine Events

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 98%, so obviously we make sure you are well prepared for the multiple choice test.

There are two options:

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. For those people attending the foundation course, each student will receive a link to an online study guide approximately  three weeks prior to the course start date so that you can read it prior to attending the course . You will also receive a hard copy of the study guide on the morning or first evening of the course to keep.  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 98% 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: You willl need to purchase a starter kit, consisting of 6 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