Whether you’re a wine enthusiast looking to deepen your appreciation or a professional exploring a career in the wine industry, the journey begins with education.

At Capital Wine School, we offer globally recognized wine qualifications through the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) that are designed to build your confidence, expand your palate, and unlock new personal and professional opportunities.

Why study wine?
Wine is more than what’s in the glass. It’s a story of geography, culture, science, and craftsmanship. When you understand what you’re tasting—and why—you elevate every sip into an experience. Our structured WSET courses help you gain that understanding, one level at a time:

WSET Level 1 in Wines
An excellent starting point for anyone new to wine. You’ll learn basic wine styles, food and wine pairing principles, and how to describe wine using professional tasting vocabulary. This approachable and engaging course lays a strong foundation.

WSET Level 2 in Wines
This intermediate-level course takes a global view. You’ll explore key grape varieties and regions, examine factors that influence style and quality, and develop your tasting technique. Ideal for hospitality professionals or anyone looking to take their wine knowledge to the next level. {Please note, Level 1 is not a prerequisite for taking this class.}

WSET Level 3 in Wines
An advanced qualification for serious wine students and professionals. Level 3 dives deep into viticulture, winemaking, and world wine regions. You’ll refine your analytical tasting skills and leave with a comprehensive understanding of wine production and classification.

WSET Diploma (DipWSET)
Our flagship program and one of the most respected wine credentials in the world. The Diploma is a multi-unit, rigorous course designed for those working in or aspiring to enter the wine trade, including wine education, importing, sales, hospitality, marketing, and journalism. Many graduates go on to pursue the Master of Wine (MW) designation.

More than a classroom—join a wine community.
Our students come from all walks of life—some are passionate hobbyists, others are pursuing wine as a career. What they all share is a love of learning and a desire to better understand the world of wine.

Whether you attend in-person in Washington, DC or online from anywhere, you’ll be welcomed into a vibrant, supportive community of fellow wine lovers and guided by experienced, credentialed instructors.

So, where can wine education take you?

• Wine retail, importing, or distribution
• Hospitality and restaurant leadership
• Wine education or writing
• Personal enrichment and travel
• Event planning, marketing, and brand representation
• And yes—simply being the go-to wine expert in your social circle

If you’re curious about wine—or curious about turning your passion into a profession—Capital Wine School is here to support your journey, from your very first tasting note to your diploma pin.

Your wine education starts with us.
Learn more and explore upcoming class offerings HERE.