Episode Summary:
In Episode 9 of the Wine Educate Podcast, Joanne Close explores how external factors can significantly impact your wine tasting experience. From lighting and temperature to the glassware you use, creating a proper tasting environment is essential for both objective analysis and enjoyment. Designed especially for WSET students, this episode emphasizes the importance of preparing both your setting and yourself to maximize tasting accuracy and success.

• Download the 250 Free Level 1 Flashcards

• Learn more about upcoming classes at Wine Educate

1. Why Your Tasting Environment Matters:

   • How external factors like smells, sounds, and distractions influence your perception of wine.

   • The importance of creating a neutral, consistent space for tasting.

2. The Ideal Tasting Environment:

   • Neutral Space: Avoid distractions, strong odors (e.g., perfumes, food), and scented items.

   • Lighting: Use natural or white light to evaluate wine appearance properly.

   • Temperature: Maintain a comfortable room temperature (~68°F) and serve wine at its ideal temperature.

   • Space: Ensure adequate room for glasses, notes, and comfortable seating.

3. Preparing Yourself for Tasting:

   • Stay hydrated: Dehydration reduces saliva production, affects aroma detection, and exaggerates alcohol perception.

   • Avoid palate disruptors: Neutralize your palate by drinking water or eating plain crackers before tasting.

4. Glassware Tips:

   • Use clean, unscented glassware to avoid unwanted aromas.

   • Suitable shapes like ISO standard tasting glasses help focus aromas and maintain consistency.

5. Practical Tips for Success:

   • Why spitting during tastings helps with clarity and focus (hint: stay tuned for the next episode).

   • The importance of standardizing your tasting practices for WSET success.

• Assess your current tasting environment.

• Identify a few simple changes to create a more neutral and conducive space for wine tasting.

• Download the 250 Free Level 1 Flashcards

• Learn more about upcoming classes at Wine Educate

Connect with Us:

• Visit our website: Wine Educate

• Email Joanne: joanne@wineeducate.com

Outro:
Thank you for listening to this episode of the Wine Educate Podcast! Don’t forget to tune in next week for a discussion on the Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT) and why spitting is so important.

Cheers,
Joanne

Episode Title: WSET Level 2 Award in Wines: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Wine Educate Podcast, Joanne dives into everything you need to know about the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines. Whether you’re considering enrolling or you’re already signed up, this episode is packed with valuable insights on what to expect, how to prepare, and how to make the most of your study journey.

• WSET Level 2 Award in Wines Specification. Download here.

• 750 Level 2 Flashcards: Get Your Flashcards!

• Check out our Level 2 Class Dates

• Join our weekly newsletter to learn when new dates are posted.

Topics Covered:

1. Overview of WSET Level 2:

   • What the course covers: grape varieties, wine styles, climate effects, winemaking, fortified and sparkling wines, and more.

   • Course structure: 8 weekly sessions or a more intensive format.

2. The Tasting Experience:

   • Taste 48 wines over the course of the program (6 wines per session).

   • Guided use of the Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT)—no blind tasting required.

3. Exam Details:

   • 1-hour multiple-choice exam with 50 questions.

   • Pass levels:

   • • Pass: 55–69%

     • Pass with Merit: 70–84%

     • Pass with Distinction: 85%+

   • Important note: Once you pass, your grade is final.

4. Preparation Tips:

   • Read the textbook, Wines: Looking Behind the Label, cover to cover.

   • Use the WSET Specification as your guide for study focus and exam weighting.

   • Create flashcards for active learning—Joanne shares how this practice has helped her throughout her wine education journey.

5. The SAT Card:

   • Practical tips for building your sensory catalog.

   • How to practice identifying aromas and flavors with everyday items like fresh herbs and produce.

6. The Transformational Impact:

   • Gain confidence in understanding wine labels, pairing food and wine, and navigating wine shops.

   • Discover new wine styles and favorites, from Riesling to Fino Sherry.

7. Advice for Prospective Students:

   • Don’t procrastinate—sign up early, get the materials, and start preparing.

   • Enjoy the process and the transformation that comes with the course.

Outro:
Thank you for tuning in to the Wine Educate Podcast! If you found this episode helpful, please share it with your fellow wine enthusiasts and leave a review. Stay tuned for more tips, study guides, and wine education insights in future episodes. Cheers!

• Book a Discovery Call: Not sure which class is right for you? Schedule a 15-minute call with Joanne to discuss your goals. Schedule here.

• Sign Up: Join our weekly newsletter—the BEST way to stay connected, learn about new classes, and hear about wine trips.

• Subscribe to the Podcast: Never miss an episode of wine education and inspiration.

• Email: Have specific questions? Reach out directly to Joanne at joanne@wineeducate.com.

Wine Educate Podcast: Episode 7 - Meet Your WSET Spirits Educator Matt Ray!

Welcome back to the Wine Educate Podcast! This week marks an exciting milestone as we host our very first interview. Meet Matt Ray, WSET Spirits Educator and spirits professional, as he shares his unique career journey and passion for spirits education. From his early days as a bartender to his current role at the Sazerac House, Matt takes us through his professional evolution and why he feels WSET certification is the gold standard for spirits education.

• Free Level 1 Spirits Flashcards: Perfect for reviewing key concepts and preparing for exams. Download here.

• Level 1 Spirits: Sunday, January 19th at the Sazerac House, New Orleans. Don’t wait—spaces fill quickly, and the next class won’t be until summer.

• Level 2 Spirits: Next date pending. Join our weekly newsletter to learn when new dates are posted.

• Matt’s Career Journey: Learn how Matt transitioned from bartending to teaching, and now representing one of the largest spirits companies in the world.

• Introduction to Spirits Certifications: Discover the range of spirits certifications available, including the gold-standard WSET offerings and alternatives such as Certified Spirits Specialist (CSS) and Bourbon certifications from Moonshine University.

• Why Choose WSET for Spirits Education? Matt discusses why WSET certifications are the most rigorous and respected in the industry.

• What to Expect in WSET Level 1 & Level 2 Spirits Classes: Matt breaks down the foundational knowledge taught in Level 1 and how Level 2 delves deeper into production, tasting, and analysis.

• Learning in a Spirits Class: What’s it really like to attend a WSET spirits class? Matt reassures listeners about tasting responsibly while emphasizing the joy of learning through hands-on experiences.

• Why Enthusiasts Should Start with Level 1: Whether you're a professional or a spirits enthusiast, starting with Level 1 helps build confidence and foundational knowledge.

• Future WSET Spirits Plans: Hear about Matt’s journey toward becoming a certified Level 3 Spirits Educator and what that means for Wine Educate’s future offerings.

• Free Level 1 Spirits Flashcards: Perfect for reviewing key concepts and preparing for exams. Download here.

• Explore WSET Levels 1 & 2 Classes: View upcoming class dates.

• Level 1 Spirits: Sunday, January 19th at the Sazerac House, New Orleans. Don’t wait—spaces fill quickly, and the next class won’t be until summer.

• Level 2 Spirits: Dates to be announced. Visit the Wine Educate website for updates on upcoming classes.

• Book a Discovery Call: Not sure which class is right for you? Schedule a 15-minute call with Joanne to discuss your goals. Schedule here.

• Sign Up: Join our weekly newsletter—the BEST way to stay connected, learn about new classes, and hear about wine trips.

• Subscribe to the Podcast: Never miss an episode of wine education and inspiration.

• Email: Have specific questions? Reach out directly to Joanne at joanne@wineeducate.com.

Loved this episode? Have a question for Matt or an idea for a future topic? Send us a message or leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. We’d love to hear from you!