Level IV: Diploma Program

The DIPLOMA Course is an intensive and detailed study of all aspects of the wine and spirit world. The course is divided into 6 Units which are covered over a minimum of a 2 year period, however students may extend this time if they wish.  This level of study requires independent as well as classroom work, many hours of reading outside of class, and as much tasting of product as possible.  The Unit examination dates are set by the WSET or by IWEG throughout the year.  The examinations include written, multiple choice and tasting evaluations. Independent written assignments, tasting portfolios and a research paper also figure into the passing grade. 



The Diploma Program is comprised of 6 separate units:

  1. BulletUnit 1: The Global Business Of Alcoholic Beverages

  2. BulletUnit 2: Wine Production

  3. BulletUnit 3: Light Wines Of The World

  4. BulletUnit 4: Spirits Of The World

  5. BulletUnit 5: Sparkling Wines Of The World

  6. BulletUnit 6: Fortified Wines Of The World


In addition to all materials provided, students also get access to the secure student area of this website where instructional videos, regional maps, exclusive wine industry links, and other materials are accessible.


  1. BulletThose who are registered to take the Diploma, and those who are considering taking the Diploma, are strongly encouraged to attend an orientation meeting for this course on May 10th, 2010 at 7:00PM at George Brown College at room 354.  Please contact the IWEG office to register for this next orientation meeting.

On completion of this qualification, a candidate will be able to:


  1. BulletDemonstrate in-depth understanding of the factors affecting the production of wines and spirits and how these factors influence style, quality and commercial value in a variety of market sectors.

  2. BulletDisplay an understanding of the trade and legal structures of the identified wine and spirit producing regions

  3. BulletDemonstrate specialist product knowledge of wines and spirits and apply that knowledge to make commercial decisions.

  4. BulletThrough the use of the Level IV WSET Systematic Approach To Tasting Technique, identify the style, quality and commercial value of wines and spirits.

  5. BulletProduce accurate tasting notes for a range of wines and spirits.

  6. BulletUnderstand the commercial and economic importance of wines and spirits to global and local markets.

  7. BulletDemonstrate an ability to make informed decisions based on in-depth understanding of the global business of alcoholic beverages.

  8. BulletPresent information in a format that meets business requirements.


The Diploma qualification is designed to give specialist knowledge of the principal wines and spirits of the world combined with commercial factors and a thorough system for the professional evaluation of wines and spirits.


Holders of the WSET Level IV Diploma will be able to identify characteristics of the principal wines and spirits of the world, make informed assessments of a products’ quality and value and identify appropriate opportunities for the products within a given market.  Diploma Level graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to underpin the job requirements in roles such as a Food & Beverage Manager, a member of a marketing team responsible for product ranges, a Wine Buyer or a Sales Executive.

Additional materials available for download in PDF Format