Uncorking Wine Knowledge: My Journey Through WSET Level 1 – Module 1
“Wine is an experience, not just a drink. The more you know, the more you enjoy every sip.”
If you're anything like me, wine is more than just a drink—it’s an experience. From celebratory toasts to unwinding after a long workday, wine holds a special place in our lives. But have you ever stared at a wine list, completely overwhelmed, or tried to describe a wine and found yourself saying, “Uhh… it’s good?” Same.
That’s why I decided to dive into WSET Level 1 (Wine & Spirit Education Trust), the ultimate beginner-friendly wine certification. And now, I’m bringing you along for the journey—starting with Module 1: The Main Types & Styles of Wine.
Red, White, and Rosé – The Wine Trifecta
The first thing WSET 1 teaches is that all wines fall into three primary categories:
Red Wine 🍷 – Made from black grapes, fermented with their skins (hello, color and tannins!). Think Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Malbec.
White Wine 🥂 – Made from white or black grapes (without the skins). Think Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling.
Rosé Wine 🌸 – A quick skin soak gives rosé its pretty pink hue. Think Provence Rosé or White Zinfandel.
Each type has its own flavors, textures, and vibes, which leads us to the next part…
Dry vs. Sweet: No, It’s Not About How Thirsty You Are
When wine pros talk about “dry” vs. “sweet,” they’re referring to the sugar content left in the wine after fermentation.
Dry Wines 🍂 – Little to no residual sugar (like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc).
Off-Dry / Semi-Sweet Wines 🍑 – Slightly sweet but balanced (think Moscato or some Rieslings).
Sweet Wines 🍯 – Packed with sugar and rich flavors (like Sauternes or Port).
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure whether a wine is sweet or dry, check the ABV (alcohol by volume). Higher alcohol (above 12.5%) usually means drier wine, while lower ABV (below 11%) leans sweeter.
Sparkling & Fortified Wines: The Life of the Party
No WSET lesson would be complete without two iconic styles:
Sparkling Wines 🍾 – Bubbly and celebratory! Champagne, Prosecco, Cava, and Crémant all fall into this fizzy category. The magic? Carbon dioxide trapped during fermentation creates the signature bubbles.
Fortified Wines 🥃 – Think Port, Sherry, and Madeira. These wines have added spirits (like brandy), making them higher in alcohol and often richer in flavor.
These wines tend to be misunderstood, but trust me, they deserve a spot on your wine rack!
Wine Recommendation: Sugarbird Sweet Shiraz 2022
Since we’re talking about sweet wines, let’s highlight a perfect bottle to try: Sugarbird Sweet Shiraz 2022.
🍷 Why You’ll Love It:
A luscious, fruit-forward red wine with a smooth, velvety finish.
Rich berry flavors with a hint of spice, making it perfect for sipping solo or pairing with a chocolate dessert.
Balanced sweetness and acidity, so it’s not overpowering—just pure indulgence.
Pair it with BBQ, spicy dishes, or even a cozy night in with a good playlist. This is a great wine to explore if you’re new to reds but love a touch of sweetness.
What This Means for Your Next Wine Night
So, what did I take away from Module 1 of WSET Level 1? A better understanding of the wines I drink and why I enjoy them.
I can confidently order dry, fruit-forward red wines instead of saying, "I just want something smooth."
I know that Rosé’s pink hue comes from skin contact, not magic.
And I finally get why Champagne costs more than Prosecco—it’s all in the production method.
The best part? This is just the beginning! As I continue through the WSET course, I’ll be breaking down wine knowledge in a way that’s fun, relatable, and easy to use in real life.
So tell me—what’s your go-to wine, and do you know what makes you love it? Drop a comment below! 🍷✨
