This page is archived – the Wine Center is no longer active and this course is no longer offered
Southampton Offerings
Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Course 2009
WSET Level 3: Advanced Certificate 
The Stony Brook University Center for Wine, Food, and Culture is pleased to offer the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Program . The British-based WSET is recognized worldwide as a preeminent wine and spirits educational program, offered in 26 countries and holding 11,000 certification exams yearly. Employers worldwide recognize the thorough and rigorous curriculum of WSET and honor its certifications as a basis for promotion and advancement within the hospitality and beverage industries.
Schedule: Tuesday evenings, 6:30 to 9:30 pm
10 classes plus exam, March 31 to June 9 (exam on June 16), with a one-week break to be determined
Location: Special Events Rm, Student Center, SB Southampton, 239 Montauk Highway/Tuckahoe Rd
Instructor: Christopher Tracy
Cost: $1,300.00. Includes lectures, wine tastings, instructional materials, and examination fees
The Advanced Certificate is suitable for anyone wishing to gain in-depth knowledge of wines and spirits. Although it builds upon the knowledge gained at the WSET Intermediate level, there are no prerequisites for this course. Students will acquire a thorough understanding of the factors influencing the style, quality and price of wines from key wine producing regions of the world. They will also develop analytical tasting skills, as tasting will be part of the examinations.
Successful candidates receive the internationally-recognized Advanced Certificate of the Wine & Spirit Education Trust of London, which is a prerequisite for the two-year Diploma Program. The final exam is comprised of a 60 question multiple choice exam, a written short essay component with 4 parts and a tasting component. A passing grade constitutes 56% or higher, with 70% or above garnering “Pass with Merit” and 86% or higher awarding “Pass with Distinction.” Candidates in the Advanced program must achieve consistent scoring in all sections of the exam to qualify.
Advanced Certificate Curriculum topics:
Wine tasting technique and assessment of wine quality
Principles and practice of viticulture and vinification
Labeling regulations
Bordeaux, Rhone, and Southwest France
Burgundy, Loire, and Alsace
Italy, Spain and Portugal
Germany, Central, and Southeastern Europe
Australia, New Zealand and South Africa
North and South America
Sparkling wines of the world
Fortified wines, spirits and liqueurs of the world
Information and advice for customers and staff
Professional winemaker Christopher Tracy will teach the Advanced course. While working as a chef Christopher earned his Sommelier Certificate from the Sommelier Society of America as well as the Higher Certificate from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET). He was awarded the WSET Diploma which entitles him to the DWS distinction. He is also a Certified Wine Educator with the Society of Wine Educators, and is currently a candidate for the Masters of Wine. Since 2001, he has been the Winemaker at Channing Daughters Winery in Bridgehampton, where his innovative techniques have garnered international acclaim for his wines.
Your e-mail confirmation is your proof of registration. No ticket will be mailed. Your name will be at the door of your chosen session, and no other documentation is necessary.
Refunds: Refunds are not available for any missed sessions, and a full refund can only be issued if the request is received 2 weeks prior to the start of class.
Course Requirements: Attendees must be over 21 years of age. The instructor reserves the right to exclude participation of any attendee who abuses the privilege of wine tasting.**
**All participants must sign the standard New York State “Hold Harmless” waiver for wine education class participation.
The Center for Wine, Food, and Culture is a not-for-profit organization.