Wine Educate: Wine Lessons, Travel & WSET Study Prep

Joanne Close
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Welcome to the Wine Educate Podcast, your ultimate guide to mastering wine through the lens of WSET wine courses and certifications. Whether you're a beginner exploring WSET Level 1 or preparing for the rigorous WSET Level 3 exam, this podcast is packed with insights tailored for every stage of your wine education journey. Learn wine tasting techniques using the Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT), discover expert strategies for excelling in WSET essay practice, and dive into topics like food and wine pairing and career pathways in the wine industry. With episodes on professional wine education, tips for online wine classes, and behind-the-scenes stories from WSET exam preparation, we'll help you turn your passion for wine into expertise. Whether you're pursuing wine certification for personal growth or advancing your career as a sommelier or educator, the Wine Educate Podcast is here to guide you—one glass at a time. Subscribe now to gain the confidence to ace your WSET courses and elevate your appreciation of wine! This podcast is for you if you are asking questions such as: How do I study for WSET classes? How do I pass WSET Level 3? How do I pass WSET Theory? How do I pass WSET Tasting? How can I take WSET Level 1 course online? Where can I take WSET Level 1 course online? Where can I take WSET Level 2 course online? Where can I take WSET Level 3 course online? What are the WSET Level 2 study materials? How can I prepare for the WSET Level 3 exam? What wine certification programs are available? What are the best wine education podcasts? Where are wine tasting courses near me? How can I take an online wine education class? What are Wine and Spirit Education Trust certifications? How can I become a certified sommelier? What is a wine appreciation course? What wine education is for beginners? What are advanced wine studies? Can I study wine abroad? Can I study WSET in France? Can I study WSET in Europe? What are the top wine regions to visit? How can I find wine tasting tours? What are some WSET exam tips? What are some wine industry certifications? What are professional wine qualifications? What are some wine courses for enthusiasts? What is the WSET diploma program? What are the benefits of obtaining a WSET Level 1 certification? How can I prepare for the WSET Level 2 exam? What topics are covered in the WSET Level 3 course? Are there online courses available for WSET certifications? What is the difference between WSET and sommelier certifications? How long does it take to complete WSET Level 1? What are the costs associated with WSET Level 2 courses? Can I take WSET exams online? What career opportunities are available with a WSET Level 3 certification? How do I find WSET-approved course providers near me? What study materials are recommended for WSET Level 2? Are there practice exams available for WSET Level 3? What is the pass rate for WSET Level 2 exams? How does WSET certification benefit wine professionals? What are the prerequisites for enrolling in WSET Level 3? Can I retake the WSET exam if I don't pass on the first attempt? What is the format of the WSET Level 1 exam? Are there scholarships available for WSET courses? How does WSET certification compare to other wine education programs? What are the best resources for WSET Level 3 exam preparation? How many wines do you taste in WSET Level 2? Is WSET Level 3 difficult? What jobs can I get with a WSET certification? What is the difference between WSET and CMS (Court of Master Sommeliers)? How can I memorize wine regions for the WSET exam? Do I need WSET Level 1 before taking Level 2? What's the difference between WSET Level 2 and Level 3? How does blind tasting work in WSET exams? Is WSET certification worth it? What are the hardest parts of the WSET Level 3 exam? Can you skip WSET Level 1 and go straight to Level 2? What are the key sparkling wine styles covered in WSET Level 3? How do I apply the BLIC (Balance, Length, Intensity, Complexity) method? What

  1. 107. Alsace - Climate, Grapes and Appellation Structure for WSET Level 2 and Level 3

    1D AGO

    107. Alsace - Climate, Grapes and Appellation Structure for WSET Level 2 and Level 3

    Episode 107: Alsace - Climate, Grapes and Appellation Structure for WSET Level 2 and Level 3 Host: Joanne Close Episode Length: 16 minutes 27 seconds Release Date: April 16, 2025 Join the Wine Educate Newsletter Get wine tips, episode updates, and exclusive content delivered to your inbox. Subscribe at https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Episode Description This week Joanne picks up where Episode 106 left off and dives deep into the grapes, climate, and appellation structure of Alsace. If you have ever wondered why this narrow strip of land on the French-German border produces such distinctive wines, this episode answers that question in full. The Vosges Mountains turn out to be the key to everything. Joanne explains the rain shadow effect in detail, walking through how Atlantic moisture gets dumped on the western slopes while the vineyards on the eastern foothills enjoy some of the driest and sunniest growing conditions in all of France. That combination of continental climate and natural shelter is what makes Alsace capable of producing wines of genuine depth and complexity from aromatic white varieties. Joanne also makes the case, clearly and without hesitation, that the white wines of Alsace belong in the conversation about the greatest wines in the world. If you are a WSET Level 2 or Level 3 student this episode covers material that is directly relevant to your exam, and Joanne breaks it down in a way that makes it genuinely stick. What You'll Learn in This Episode The Rain Shadow Effect and Why It Matters How Atlantic winds carry moisture from the west and drop it on the western side of the Vosges Mountains Why the eastern foothills receive only around 500mm of rainfall annually compared to up to 2,000mm on the western side Why this dry, sunny microclimate is what makes Alsace wines possible at this northern latitude The Grape Varieties of Alsace Riesling - the dominant grape, medium to full body, typically dry, high acidity, citrus and stone fruit with a stony mineral character Gewurztraminer - pungent, aromatic, spicy nose with lychee, rose, and sweet baking spices, full bodied with rich oily texture and high alcohol Pinot Gris - rich, full bodied, high alcohol, pronounced flavour intensity with fresh and dried fruit and a honeyed character Muscat - light to medium bodied, orange blossom, rose, and fresh grape aromas, and why Muscat Ottonel is more widely planted than Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains despite being less aromatic Pinot Blanc - planted on the plains and the key grape for Cremant d'Alsace Pinot Noir - the only red grape, less than 10% of total plantings The Appellation System Alsace AOC as the regional appellation covering the majority of production Why grape varieties are labelled on Alsace wines and the 100% rule that applies Blended wines - Edelzwicker, Gentil, and producer-labelled blends Alsace Grand Cru AOC - the 51 grand cru sites, the rules, and the controversy over boundaries Vendanges Tardives - late harvest, minimum sugar ripeness, passerillage, and how it compares to German Spatlese and Auslese Selection de Grains Nobles - the sweetest category, noble rot, and its German equivalent Winemaking in Alsace Why aromatic winemaking means oxygen is the enemy at every step The use of stainless steel and inert vessels to preserve primary aromatics Why MLF and extended lees ageing are avoided The role of large old oak barrels - why they impart no flavour but allow tiny amounts of oxygen to round out the texture The 2021 sweetness labelling law and why implementation has been uneven Episode Highlights and Quotes "If you give me that MW essay question about whether white wine can be as great as red wine, I am going to focus a lot on Alsace." "Gewurztraminer jumps out of the glass at you in a blind tasting. Your textbook uses the word pungent, which I find hilarious." "These large old oak barrels, some of them are a hundred plus years old. Any oak flavour is no longer being imparted into the wine. The tartrates have crystallised on the inside of the barrel." Alsace Quick Reference Guide The Four Noble Grape Varieties Riesling - medium to full body, dry, high acidity, citrus, stone fruit, mineral Gewurztraminer - full body, low to medium acidity, lychee, rose, sweet spice, high alcohol Pinot Gris - full body, high alcohol, honeyed, fresh and dried fruit Muscat - light to medium body, orange blossom, rose, fresh grape Classification Terms Alsace AOC - regional appellation, majority of production Alsace Grand Cru AOC - 51 individual vineyards, four noble grapes only Vendanges Tardives - late harvest, minimum sugar ripeness, dry to medium sweet Selection de Grains Nobles - noble rot required, always sweet Sweetness Labelling Scale (introduced 2021) sec - dry demi-sec - off dry moelleux - medium sweet doux - sweet Resources Mentioned Episode 106: The History of Alsace Colmar - the city used as a reference point for eastern side rainfall figures Cremant d'Alsace - Alsace sparkling wine Edelzwicker and Gentil - blended wine categories Connect with Wine Educate Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter - sign up for wine tips, quizzes, and episode updates delivered to your inbox every week. Website: https://www.wineeducate.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wineeducate Never miss an episode. Subscribe on your favourite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review and share it with fellow wine lovers. Reviews are the best way to help other WSET students find the show. About Wine Educate Wine Educate is a WSET Approved Programme Provider offering internationally recognized wine certification courses. Through the podcast, Joanne Close makes wine education accessible to everyone, breaking down complex topics into practical, easy-to-understand lessons. Whether you are studying for your WSET certification or simply want to learn more about wine, you will find the guidance and knowledge you need to enjoy wine with confidence. Episode 107 of the Wine Educate Podcast | Hosted by Joanne Close | © 2025 Wine Educate

    16 min
  2. 106. War, Wine, and Identity: The Remarkable History of Alsace.

    APR 9

    106. War, Wine, and Identity: The Remarkable History of Alsace.

    Episode 106: War, Wine, and Identity: The Remarkable History of Alsace. Host: Joanne Close Episode Length: 9:18 Release Date: April 9, 2025 Join the Wine Educate Newsletter Get wine tips, episode updates, and exclusive content delivered to your inbox. Subscribe at https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Episode Description Alsace is one of the most fascinating and distinctive wine regions in the world, and its history is unlike anywhere else in France. In this first of two episodes on Alsace, Joanne Close dives into the turbulent and complex history of a region that has been shaped by centuries of conflict, cultural exchange, and remarkable resilience. Sandwiched between the Vosges Mountains to the west and the Rhine River to the east, and sitting on the border between France and Germany, Alsace has been passed back and forth between the two countries more times than most people realise. That history has left a permanent mark on the wines made here, from the grape varieties on the label to the shape of the bottles. This episode sets the stage beautifully for next week's deep dive into Alsace climate, grape varieties, classifications, and styles. If you have ever been curious about why Alsace feels so different from the rest of France, this is where the story begins. What You Will Learn in This Episode Geography Where Alsace is located and why its position matters The significance of the Vosges Mountains and the Rhine River Why Alsace is described as a narrow strip of land roughly 75 miles north to south and three miles wide History and Identity Alsace's long winemaking history dating back to the Romans How the region thrived through the Middle Ages and reached its peak during the Renaissance The Route des Vins d'Alsace, one of the oldest wine routes in France, established in 1953 The cycle of destruction and recovery caused by repeated conflict between France and Germany How Phylloxera devastated the region while it was under German control and the damaging replanting choices that followed How France's return to control after World War One led to the removal of hybrids and a return to noble varieties French and German Influences Why grape varieties appear on Alsace labels, a distinctly German approach rarely seen elsewhere in France Why Riesling is the hero grape of Alsace and the only place in France where it is grown The tall thin flute bottle shape and its German origins How the AOC classification system reflects French influence on the region Why Alsace is neither entirely French nor entirely German but has emerged with an identity entirely its own Alsace Today Approximately 15,600 hectares under vine with around 3,700 growers The importance of small family owned domaines, many in the same families for hundreds of years Co-operatives producing around 50% of the wine, negociants 31%, and estate bottled wines just 19% Only 25% of Alsace wine is exported, with most consumed locally or within France Episode Highlights and Quotes "It is now officially part of France, but I would not say it is entirely French and I would not say it is entirely German either. It is a region that has been shaped by both of these countries but has emerged with an identity all of its own." "The Germans encouraged Alsace to replant after Phylloxera with hybrids and lesser quality grapes because they were fearful of Alsace and could see its potential and did not want to have to compete." "Only 25% is actually exported. To me this signifies a strong, self-reliant region and wine culture." Book Mentioned in This Episode Joanne recommends War and Wine for anyone who wants to understand how deeply conflict has shaped the wine regions of Europe and the resilience of the people who make wine there. Coming Up Next Episode 107: Alsace for Level 2 Students Next week Joanne covers everything WSET Level 2 students need to know about Alsace, including climate, grape varieties, classifications, and styles. Quizzes and essay questions will be available in the show notes and delivered to newsletter subscribers that week. Connect with Wine Educate Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter - sign up for wine tips, quizzes, and episode updates delivered to your inbox every week. Website: https://www.wineeducate.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wineeducate Never miss an episode. Subscribe on your favourite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review and share it with fellow wine lovers. Reviews are the best way to help other WSET students find the show. About Wine Educate Wine Educate is a WSET Approved Programme Provider offering internationally recognized wine certification courses. Through the podcast, Joanne Close makes wine education accessible to everyone, breaking down complex topics into practical, easy-to-understand lessons. Whether you are studying for your WSET certification or simply want to learn more about wine, you will find the guidance and knowledge you need to enjoy wine with confidence. Episode 106 of the Wine Educate Podcast | Hosted by Joanne Close | © 2025 Wine Educate

    9 min
  3. 105. Pinot Grigio / Pinot Gris - A Level 2 Wine Student's Guide to Why the Same Grape Tastes So Different

    APR 2

    105. Pinot Grigio / Pinot Gris - A Level 2 Wine Student's Guide to Why the Same Grape Tastes So Different

    Episode 105: Pinot Grigio / Pinot Gris - A Level 2 Wine Student's Guide to Why the Same Grape Tastes So Different Host: Joanne Close Episode Length: 11:05 Release Date: April 2, 2025 Take the QUIZ! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeLWkZH9WCxZas70JNvPzPJGSVhxiCfR48-OE0uJAI5RRS00Q/viewform?usp=header Work through the free Pinot Grigio / Pinot Gris multiple choice questions linked below and if you want more quizzes like this delivered straight to your inbox, make sure you are signed up for the newsletter.  Join the Wine Educate Newsletter Get wine tips, episode updates, and exclusive content delivered to your inbox! 👉 https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Stay connected with everything happening at Wine Educate and deepen your wine knowledge with each edition. Episode Description Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris are the same grape, but you would never guess it from tasting them side by side. In this episode, Joanne takes a deep dive into one of the most widely planted and widely misunderstood white grapes in the world, covering everything from its origins in Burgundy to why it tastes so completely different depending on where it is grown. This episode is part of an ongoing Level 2 grape series and sets the stage for the upcoming Alsace episodes. Whether you are studying for your WSET Level 2 or just curious about why your grocery store Pinot Grigio tastes nothing like a bottle from Alsace, this episode will give you a clear picture of what is really going on in the glass. Joanne walks through the two core styles of the grape, what drives those differences, and why Italy saw a 400% increase in Pinot Grigio plantings between 1990 and 2015. She also makes a case for why this grape deserves more credit than it typically gets. What You'll Learn in This Episode The Pinot Family Origins of the Pinot family in 14th century Burgundy Why the grape is called Pinot, from the French word for pine cone, reflecting the shape of the bunches How Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc are related and how to tell them apart visually The name across different countries - Pinot Grigio in Italy, Pinot Gris in France, Grauburgunder in Germany Climate and Winemaking Why Pinot Gris is best suited to cool to moderate climates Why it is almost always fermented in inert vessels with no oak contact How yield and ripeness level drive the two core styles Italy - Pinot Grigio The Veneto region and why it dominates high-volume production How yields of up to 200 hectoliters per hectare affect the style The light, fresh style - aromas of apple and lemon, high acidity, short neutral finish The two regions to know for WSET Level 2: delle Venezie DOC and Veneto IGT Why global demand shifted dramatically toward this style over the past few decades Friuli-Venezia Giulia as a region producing more complex, fuller-bodied expressions France - Pinot Gris Why Alsace produces the most distinctive expressions of Pinot Gris outside of Burgundy The richer, fuller-bodied style with lower acidity and flavours of peach, mango, and spice Sweetness levels and the ability to age Episode Highlights and Quotes "The same grape can have two very different styles. In Italy it is more light and fresh with apple and lemon. In France you have this rich, complex style with fuller body and the ability to age." "When you have a lot of grapes from a vine, you are diluting that concentration and the resulting wine is going to have lighter body." "It is a bit of a shame that it has gotten this reputation for being inexpensive and light. There are some wines from Italy made from Pinot Grigio that are outstandingly delicious." Quick Reference - Pinot Grigio vs Pinot Gris   Italy (Veneto) France (Alsace) Name Pinot Grigio Pinot Gris Body Light Full Acidity High Medium Aromas Apple, lemon Peach, mango, spice, ginger Oak None None Sweetness Dry Dry to medium sweet Ageing potential Drink young Can age Resources Mentioned Delle Venezie DOC, Italy Veneto IGT, Italy Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy Alsace, France WSET Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 Coming Up Next Episode 106: The History of Alsace Joanne kicks off a two-part series on Alsace, starting with the history of this unique and fascinating region. Episode 107: Alsace for Level 2 Students The second Alsace episode brings it back to the WSET Level 2 syllabus. If you picked up a bottle of Alsace Pinot Gris after this episode, you will want to have it ready. Connect with Wine Educate Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter  for wine tips and episode updates Website: wineeducate.com About Wine Educate Wine Educate is a WSET Approved Programme Provider offering internationally recognized wine certification courses. Through the podcast, Joanne Close makes wine education accessible to everyone, breaking down complex topics into practical, easy-to-understand lessons. Whether you are studying for your WSET certification or simply want to learn more about wine, you will find the guidance and knowledge you need to enjoy wine with confidence. Subscribe and Share Never miss an episode! Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts YouTube Leave a Review! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review and share it with fellow wine lovers. Your reviews help others discover the show! Stay Connected Join the Wine Educate Newsletter for wine tips, episode updates, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox! Episode 105 of the Wine Educate Podcast | Hosted by Joanne Close | © 2025 Wine Educate

    11 min
  4. 104. Wine Tracking Apps - Which One Is Right for You?

    MAR 26

    104. Wine Tracking Apps - Which One Is Right for You?

    Episode 104: Wine Tracking Apps - Which One Is Right for You? Host: Joanne Close Episode Length: 11:45 Release Date: March 26, 2026 Join the Wine Educate Newsletter Get wine tips, episode updates, and exclusive content delivered to your inbox every Tuesday. https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Episode Description A listener reached out asking which wine app to use, and it turns out a lot of people have the same question. Joanne posed it to her newsletter community and the responses came flooding in, with avid trackers, reluctant trackers, and proud non-trackers all weighing in. This episode breaks down what the community said, reviews the most popular apps, and makes the case for why tracking your collection might be more useful than you think. Joanne covers CellarTracker, Vivino, InVintory and Oeni, looking at what each app does, who it suits, and what it costs. She also walks through the practical reasons to start tracking, from knowing what you have and when to drink it, to building a personal taste profile over time and even valuing your collection for insurance purposes. Whether you are a dedicated tracker, someone who keeps meaning to start, or someone who has no intention of ever downloading an app, this episode has something for you. What You'll Learn in This Episode The Listener Results How 34 listeners responded to the wine app question The three camps that emerged: dedicated trackers, reluctant trackers and proud non-trackers App breakdown by percentage: Vivino 35%, CellarTracker 24%, InVintory 12%, Oeni 6%, other methods 23% Why Bother Tracking At All Knowing what you own and where it is Understanding when a bottle is ready to drink Making smarter buying decisions and identifying gaps in your collection Price comparison across markets Building a personal taste profile over time Food and wine pairing suggestions Keeping a record of wine trips and experiences Valuing your collection for insurance or resale The Apps Reviewed CellarTracker Founded 2003 by Eric LeVine, a Microsoft programmer who built it for himself 1 million active users and 9 million community tasting notes Free at the basic level with paid subscription tiers scaled to cellar size Integrates professional critic reviews including Jancis Robinson Vivino Founded 2010 by Heini Zachariassen and Theis Søndergaard in Copenhagen 65 million users, 15 million wines in the database, 2 million labels scanned daily Best for discovery and browsing across 18 markets Free with ads, premium tier available, not built for serious cellar tracking InVintory Founded in Canada in 2018 by father and son team Jeff and Josh Daiter Sommelier-curated database of 2 million wines, rated 4.8 out of 5 on the App Store 3D cellar visualisation, AI sommelier, real-time market valuations and drinking window alerts Includes an insurance export report to value your collection for coverage Oeni Founded in France in 2023, the newest app in this comparison Over 800,000 downloads, freemium model with Plus plan at 59.99 euros per year Gamification built in: scan a label, post a review, collect corks as you progress Joanne describes it as Duolingo for wine lovers Episode Highlights "Some of you are steel trap minds. It's all in your head and I give you full credit for that." "InVintory feels like the Rolls Royce of wine apps. 3D cellar visualisation, AI sommelier, real-time market valuations. Talking my language." "They took my favourite topic and gamified it. Yes please." Resources Mentioned CellarTracker: cellartracker.com Vivino: vivino.com InVintory: invintory.com Oeni: oeni.app Jancis Robinson: wine critic integrated with CellarTracker wineeducate.com Connect with Wine Educate 📧 Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter 🌐 Website: wineeducate.com 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WineEducate About Wine Educate Wine Educate is a WSET Approved Programme Provider offering internationally recognised wine certification courses. Through the podcast, Joanne Close makes wine education accessible to everyone, breaking down complex topics into practical, easy-to-understand lessons. Whether you are studying for your WSET certification or simply want to learn more about wine, you will find the guidance and knowledge you need to enjoy wine with confidence. Subscribe and Share Never miss an episode. Subscribe on your favourite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts YouTube ⭐ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review and share it with fellow wine lovers. Your reviews help others discover the show. 📧 Stay Connected Join the Wine Educate Newsletter for wine tips, episode updates and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox every Tuesday. https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Episode 104 of the Wine Educate Podcast | Hosted by Joanne Close | © 2026 Wine Educate

    11 min
  5. 103. German Wine Regions for WSET Level 2 - Mosel, Rheingau, and Pfalz

    MAR 19

    103. German Wine Regions for WSET Level 2 - Mosel, Rheingau, and Pfalz

    Episode 103: German Wine Regions for WSET Level 2 - Mosel, Rheingau, and Pfalz Host: Joanne Close Episode Length: 11:17 Release Date: March 19, 2026 Free Quiz: Test your German wine knowledge here with the 10-question Level 2 quiz! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfdI2QS9k6qiBJWb-y9XoKX0DXT4nMSMaTRr1UBkXjJ7LsQsQ/viewform?usp=publish-editor Join the Wine Educate Newsletter Get a fresh quiz delivered to your inbox each week! Sign up for the Wine Educate Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Episode Description Germany pushes the boundaries of where wine can grow, sitting at 47-51 degrees latitude at the very edge of the wine-growing world. In this episode, Joanne covers the three German wine regions you need to know for WSET Level 2: Mosel, Rheingau, and Pfalz. Each region has its own character shaped by latitude, slope, and proximity to rivers. From the impossibly steep 60-70% inclines of the Mosel to the balmy (relatively speaking) Pfalz, you'll learn what makes German Riesling so special and why these wines can have 20-30 grams of residual sugar without tasting sweet. Plus, Joanne shares her memorable story of running out of gas on the Autobahn in a Mini Cooper - and why you should always rent an Audi instead. What You'll Learn in This Episode German Wine Geography & Climate Why Germany sits at the extreme northern limit of wine growing (47-51 degrees latitude) How one degree of latitude equals 69 miles and creates noticeable climate differences The 200-mile stretch from north to south across Germany's wine regions Why Germany has only 100,000 hectares planted compared to France's 800,000 Mosel Region The coolest of the three regions at 51 degrees latitude Slopes up to 60-70% incline - among the steepest in the world Why slate soils and river reflection help ripen grapes in this extreme climate The magic of high-acid Riesling with 20-30 grams of residual sugar that doesn't taste sweet Why these vineyards require hand labor and multiple workers (no machines possible) Rheingau Region Small but historically important region at 50 degrees latitude South-facing slopes along the Rhine River Typically drier and fuller-bodied Riesling styles The Geisenheim University - birthplace of Müller-Thurgau and a leading wine research center Pfalz Region The warmest region at 49 degrees latitude Benefits from mountain protection on the western side Dry, medium-bodied wines with riper stone fruit flavors (peach vs citrus) The largest of the three regions with nearly 24,000 hectares planted Episode Highlights & Quotes "The fact that they actually make wine here is nothing short of a miracle. Slopes can be up to 60 to 70% incline - they are among some of the steepest slopes in the world." "You can have a wine with 20 to 30 grams of residual sugar, and because that acidity is so high, you don't even notice it. That is the magic of a Mosel." "When you're going 160 miles per hour on the Autobahn in an Audi, you sleep like a baby in the backseat." Quick Reference: Three German Regions Comparison Mosel (51° latitude) Coolest region Steepest slopes (60-70% incline) Light, high-acid Riesling Often sweeter styles Slate soils retain heat Rheingau (50° latitude) Small but historically important South-facing Rhine slopes Structured, balanced, typically drier Home to Geisenheim University Pfalz (49° latitude) Warmest region Mountain-protected Dry, medium-bodied Riper stone fruit flavors Largest of the three regions Resources Mentioned Geisenheim University (founded 1872) Bremer Calmont Slope (example of extreme Mosel steepness) Müller-Thurgau grape (created at Geisenheim) Episode 64: VDP classification system Connect with Wine Educate Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Website: https://wineeducate.com YouTube: Watch this episode with visual examples and slides About Wine Educate Wine Educate is a WSET Approved Programme Provider offering internationally recognized wine certification courses. Through the podcast, Joanne Close makes wine education accessible to everyone, breaking down complex topics into practical, easy-to-understand lessons. Whether you're studying for your WSET certification or simply want to learn more about wine, you'll find the guidance and knowledge you need to enjoy wine with confidence. Subscribe & Share Never miss an episode! Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts YouTube Leave a Review! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review and share it with fellow wine lovers. Your reviews help others discover the show! Stay Connected Get a fresh quiz delivered to your inbox each week! Sign up for the Wine Educate Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Episode 103 of the Wine Educate Podcast | Hosted by Joanne Close | © 2026 Wine Educate

    11 min
  6. 102. The 1971 German Wine Law - How Ripeness Replaced Terroir

    MAR 12

    102. The 1971 German Wine Law - How Ripeness Replaced Terroir

    Episode 102: The 1971 German Wine Law - How Ripeness Replaced Terroir Host: Joanne Close Episode Length: 8:18 Release Date: March 12, 2025 Join the Wine Educate Newsletter Get wine tips, episode updates, and exclusive content delivered to your inbox! 👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Stay connected with everything happening at Wine Educate and deepen your wine knowledge with each edition. Episode Description Germany's wine laws are different from the rest of the European Union, and understanding why requires looking back at the pivotal 1971 wine classification. This law completely reshaped German wine, and not always for the better. In this episode, Joanne explains how Germany went from 30,000 named vineyard sites to just 2,600, why ripeness became the primary quality indicator, and how this decision weakened the link between terroir and wine quality. You'll also learn about the VDP's pushback against these laws and the encouraging 2021 amendment that's bringing terroir-based classifications back to German wine. If you're studying for WSET Level 3, pay close attention. German wine law shows up on essay questions, and understanding the historical context makes the current system much clearer. What You'll Learn in This Episode The History Behind the 1971 Wine Law How Germany historically recognized vineyard quality (including the famous 1868 Prussian tax map) Why Germany needed new wine regulations in the early 1900s The intentions behind the 1971 classification and why it focused on ripeness How the 1971 Law Changed German Wine The Pradikatswein system: Kabinett, Spatlese, Auslese, and beyond Why Germany prioritized ripeness over terroir (unlike France and Italy) The creation of Grosslagen and how it merged smaller vineyard sites How 30,000 vineyard sites became just 2,600 The Consequences of This Approach Why the law weakened the link between vineyard site and quality How label confusion hurt German wine's prestige in export markets The economic impact on producers with historic vineyard sites The VDP and Recent Changes Who the VDP is and why they pushed back against the 1971 law The 2021 amendment restoring hierarchy (regional wine, village wine, single vineyard wine) Why this is good news for German terroir recognition Episode Highlights & Quotes "Germany really prioritized ripeness over terroir. This really differs from what's happening in France or Italy, where the location is really important and protected and recognized as producing superior wines." "Before 1971, there were about 30,000 named vineyard sites. The law reduced this to about 2,600 sites, which is remarkable to me." "The pendulum is swinging back in the opposite direction, and these beautiful special terroirs of Germany are getting the recognition that they very clearly deserve." Key Reference: The 1971 Wine Law Impact What Changed: 30,000 vineyard sites reduced to 2,600 Creation of large Grosslagen regions Historic vineyard sites merged under single names Ripeness-based classification (Pradikatswein) became the quality standard Why It Mattered: Weakened connection between site and quality Created label confusion (similar names for different quality levels) Hurt German wine's export reputation Frustrated producers with premium vineyard sites The Correction: VDP (independent producer organization) pushed for change 2021 amendment restored terroir-based hierarchy Renewed focus on regional, village, and single vineyard wines Resources Mentioned Episode 64: Deep dive into the Pradikatswein system (Kabinett, Spatlese, Auslese, etc.) The 1868 Prussian vineyard tax map (Saar and Mosel sections) VDP (Verband Deutscher Pradikatsweinguter) - German wine growers' association Coming Up Next Week Episode 103: The VDP - Germany's Quality Wine Revolution Joanne breaks down what the VDP is, their classification rules, and why WSET Level 3 students need to know this for essay questions. Connect with Wine Educate 📧 Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter 🌐 Website: wineeducate.com 📺 YouTube: Watch this episode with visual examples and slides at [YouTube Channel Link] Don't miss out on exclusive wine education content - join our newsletter community today! About Wine Educate Wine Educate is a WSET Approved Programme Provider offering internationally recognized wine certification courses. Through the podcast, Joanne Close makes wine education accessible to everyone, breaking down complex topics into practical, easy-to-understand lessons. Whether you're studying for your WSET certification or simply want to learn more about wine, you'll find the guidance and knowledge you need to enjoy wine with confidence. Subscribe & Share Never miss an episode! Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts YouTube ⭐ Leave a Review! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review and share it with fellow wine lovers. Your reviews help others discover the show! Stay Connected Join the Wine Educate Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Get wine tips, episode updates, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox! Episode 102 of the Wine Educate Podcast | Hosted by Joanne Close | © 2025 Wine Educate

    8 min
  7. 101. Riesling for WSET Level 2 - Everything You Need to Know

    MAR 5

    101. Riesling for WSET Level 2 - Everything You Need to Know

    Host: Joanne Close Episode Length: 15 minutes 31 seconds Release Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026 Riesling for WSET Level 2 - Everything You Need to Know Join the Wine Educate Newsletter Every week get your Level 1, 2 & 3 WSET tips including multiple choice quizzes and Level 3 essay questions. Stay informed about in-person and online classes as well as trips. 👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Episode Description This episode kicks off a new series on Germany, Alsace, and Austria by starting where it all begins: Riesling. Jancis Robinson calls it the world's most undervalued, often misspelled, and most often mispronounced grape. Joanne breaks down everything you need to know about this versatile variety, from its German origins to its ability to express terroir like few other grapes can. You'll learn why Riesling's naturally high acidity is its superpower, allowing winemakers to create everything from bone-dry wines to lusciously sweet dessert styles. Joanne also tackles the petrol aroma (yes, that's a thing), explains why cool climates are essential for Riesling, and shares why serious wine collectors are turning to German Riesling as Burgundy prices them out of the market. This is a straight-up lesson for Level 2 students, but anyone interested in understanding one of the world's greatest white grapes will find this episode valuable. What You'll Learn in This Episode Riesling Basics Origins in Germany dating back to 1435 Parent grape lineage (Gouais Blanc, related to Chardonnay and Gamay) Why Riesling thrives in cool to moderate climates The importance of being a late-ripening grape Key Characteristics Naturally high acidity and why it matters Why Riesling is classified as an aromatic grape The role of old, neutral oak barrels in German winemaking Riesling's ability to express terroir Styles and Winemaking Range of sweetness levels from dry to very sweet How winemakers create off-dry and medium-sweet styles Aging potential (decades, similar to Cabernet Sauvignon) Development of tertiary aromas like honey and petrol Flavor Profiles Early harvest: green apple, pear, citrus Riper styles: stone fruit, tropical fruit Late harvest/botrytis: dried fruit, honey Key Regions for Level 2 Students Germany: Mosel (lighter, ethereal, medium sweetness), Rheingau (drier, fuller bodied), Pfalz (reliably dry, fuller bodied) Alsace, France: Dry, full-bodied styles (up to 13.5% alcohol) Australia: Eden Valley and Clare Valley (dry, lime, peach blossom, petrol) Episode Highlights & Quotes "If a grape is later ripening and if it warms up too soon, it won't have the time to develop their aromas and flavors. So a later ripening grape needs a cooler climate in order to stretch out the ripening to develop these flavors." "For my wine collectors or budding wine collectors out there, you can get so much more enjoyment and stretch your budget a lot further by investing in German wines than you can say in perhaps Burgundy today. Some of the very top Rieslings are selling for 50, $60 where you could 10x that for Burgundy." "It is time to look at Riesling in a new light. Unfortunately, in the eighties there was a lot of Liebfraumilch in the market. 60% of German exports were this Liebfraumilch, which is not a very impressive wine, and it's given Riesling a bad name." Quick Reference: Riesling at a Glance Climate: Cool to moderate Acidity: Naturally high Oak: Typically none (or old, neutral barrels in Germany) Sweetness range: Dry to very sweet Body: Light to full Aging potential: Decades Signature aromas: Green apple, citrus, stone fruit, petrol (in older wines) Top regions: Germany (Mosel, Rheingau, Pfalz), Alsace, Australia (Eden Valley, Clare Valley) Resources Mentioned Jancis Robinson (wine critic and author) Von Buhl (German wine importer) Peter Lauer wines (Mosel producer) Florian Lauer (current winemaker at Peter Lauer) Understanding Wines: Explaining Style and Quality (WSET textbook) Wine Educate Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Wine Educate website: https://wineeducate.com Coming Up Next Week Episode 102: The History of German Wine Joanne dives into the fascinating history of German wine, exploring how this northern wine region became one of the most important in the world. Subscribe so you don't miss any episodes in this series. About Wine Educate Wine Educate is a WSET Approved Programme Provider offering internationally recognized wine certification courses. We teach WSET Level 1, 2 & 3 Award in Wines, Level 1, 2 & 3 Award in Spirits, Level 1 & 2 Award in Beer, and Level 1 & 2 Award in Sake, both in-person and online. Through the podcast, Joanne Close makes wine education accessible to everyone, breaking down complex topics into practical, easy-to-understand lessons. Whether you're studying for your WSET certification or simply want to learn more about wine, you'll find the guidance and knowledge you need to enjoy wine with confidence. View upcoming classes: https://wineeducate.com Watch on YouTube Since Episode 84, all podcast episodes are now available in video form on YouTube with slides and images to help you follow along visually. Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WineEducate Leave a Review ⭐ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review! Your reviews help other wine students discover the show. 📧 Stay Connected Every week get your Level 1, 2 & 3 WSET tips including multiple choice quizzes and Level 3 essay questions. Stay informed about in-person and online classes as well as trips. 👉 Join the Wine Educate Newsletter Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Episode 101 of the Wine Educate Podcast | Hosted by Joanne Close | © 2026 Wine Educate

    15 min
  8. 100. How to Use the Wine Educate Podcast for WSET Study

    FEB 26

    100. How to Use the Wine Educate Podcast for WSET Study

    Episode 100: How to Use the Wine Educate Podcast for WSET Study Host: Joanne Close Episode Length: 7 minutes 8 seconds Release Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026 📧 Join the Wine Educate Newsletter Get wine tips, episode updates, and exclusive content delivered to your inbox! 👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Stay connected with everything happening at Wine Educate and deepen your wine knowledge with each edition. Episode Description Episode 100 is a milestone. Joanne takes a moment to reflect on what this podcast is, what it's not, and most importantly, how to use it as a study tool for your WSET certification. This isn't a substitute for WSET classes. It's a supplement. A way to flesh out the textbook material, tie concepts into history and context, and reinforce what you're learning in class. Some episodes are direct lessons for specific WSET levels. Others are what Joanne calls "lagniappe," something extra that helps put everything together. If you've been listening since episode one or you just found the show, this episode explains how to make the most of it at every stage of your wine education. What You'll Learn in This Episode About the Podcast What the Wine Educate Podcast is and what it's not How to use the podcast alongside your WSET classes Why wine is "infinitely fascinating" and part of the humanities The difference between core lessons and lagniappe content How to Use This Podcast for WSET Study Listen along with your WSET class for reinforcement Go back and re-listen when topics come up again in class Use it to flesh out textbook material that feels dry or confusing The Newsletter as Your Study Hub Level 1 students get guidance on building tasting vocabulary Level 2 students get weekly multiple choice questions Level 3 students get essay questions for exam practice Weekly wine tips broken down by level Why the Newsletter Matters Social media shows content to only a fraction of followers Newsletter delivers directly to people who want the content Best way to communicate with the Wine Educate community Updates on upcoming classes and resources Episode Highlights & Quotes "Wine is infinitely fascinating. I often refer to wine as one of the extensions of the humanities. It covers history, science, geography, geology, art, food pairing. All those things are included in this gorgeous, delicious, fascinating beverage." "This podcast is not a substitute for these classes. This podcast is meant as a supplement, a study supplement." "It is difficult just sitting alone with your textbook reading the same paragraph over and over again. Sometimes it's very helpful to flesh that out, tie it into a bit of history, and that is how you learn these concepts." "At this stage, if it's not fun, I don't want to do it. And every Tuesday when I gather my thoughts and sit down to organize these podcasts, it's joy. It is great fun." Resources Mentioned Wine Educate Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter Wine Educate Website: wineeducate.com Summer wine trips to France: https://youtu.be/R-wVjMEAeyI?si=yd2Yu2x_cktTghnF Coming Up Next Week Episode 101: German, Austria & Alsace Series Begins Joanne starts a new series covering German, Austrian, and Alsace wines. Subscribe so you don't miss any episodes in this series. About Wine Educate Wine Educate is a WSET Approved Programme Provider offering internationally recognized wine certification courses. Through the podcast, Joanne Close makes wine education accessible to everyone, breaking down complex topics into practical, easy-to-understand lessons. Whether you're studying for your WSET certification or simply want to learn more about wine, you'll find the guidance and knowledge you need to enjoy wine with confidence. Watch on YouTube Since Episode 84, all podcast episodes are now available in video form on YouTube with slides and images to help you follow along visually. Watch Episode 100 on YouTube: youtube.com/@wineeducate Leave a Review ⭐ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review! Your reviews help other wine students discover the show. 📧 Stay Connected Join the Wine Educate Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter for wine tips, episode updates, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox! Episode 100 of the Wine Educate Podcast | Hosted by Joanne Close | © 2026 Wine Educate

    7 min
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About

Welcome to the Wine Educate Podcast, your ultimate guide to mastering wine through the lens of WSET wine courses and certifications. Whether you're a beginner exploring WSET Level 1 or preparing for the rigorous WSET Level 3 exam, this podcast is packed with insights tailored for every stage of your wine education journey. Learn wine tasting techniques using the Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT), discover expert strategies for excelling in WSET essay practice, and dive into topics like food and wine pairing and career pathways in the wine industry. With episodes on professional wine education, tips for online wine classes, and behind-the-scenes stories from WSET exam preparation, we'll help you turn your passion for wine into expertise. Whether you're pursuing wine certification for personal growth or advancing your career as a sommelier or educator, the Wine Educate Podcast is here to guide you—one glass at a time. Subscribe now to gain the confidence to ace your WSET courses and elevate your appreciation of wine! This podcast is for you if you are asking questions such as: How do I study for WSET classes? How do I pass WSET Level 3? How do I pass WSET Theory? How do I pass WSET Tasting? How can I take WSET Level 1 course online? Where can I take WSET Level 1 course online? Where can I take WSET Level 2 course online? Where can I take WSET Level 3 course online? What are the WSET Level 2 study materials? How can I prepare for the WSET Level 3 exam? What wine certification programs are available? What are the best wine education podcasts? Where are wine tasting courses near me? How can I take an online wine education class? What are Wine and Spirit Education Trust certifications? How can I become a certified sommelier? What is a wine appreciation course? What wine education is for beginners? What are advanced wine studies? Can I study wine abroad? Can I study WSET in France? Can I study WSET in Europe? What are the top wine regions to visit? How can I find wine tasting tours? What are some WSET exam tips? What are some wine industry certifications? What are professional wine qualifications? What are some wine courses for enthusiasts? What is the WSET diploma program? What are the benefits of obtaining a WSET Level 1 certification? How can I prepare for the WSET Level 2 exam? What topics are covered in the WSET Level 3 course? Are there online courses available for WSET certifications? What is the difference between WSET and sommelier certifications? How long does it take to complete WSET Level 1? What are the costs associated with WSET Level 2 courses? Can I take WSET exams online? What career opportunities are available with a WSET Level 3 certification? How do I find WSET-approved course providers near me? What study materials are recommended for WSET Level 2? Are there practice exams available for WSET Level 3? What is the pass rate for WSET Level 2 exams? How does WSET certification benefit wine professionals? What are the prerequisites for enrolling in WSET Level 3? Can I retake the WSET exam if I don't pass on the first attempt? What is the format of the WSET Level 1 exam? Are there scholarships available for WSET courses? How does WSET certification compare to other wine education programs? What are the best resources for WSET Level 3 exam preparation? How many wines do you taste in WSET Level 2? Is WSET Level 3 difficult? What jobs can I get with a WSET certification? What is the difference between WSET and CMS (Court of Master Sommeliers)? How can I memorize wine regions for the WSET exam? Do I need WSET Level 1 before taking Level 2? What's the difference between WSET Level 2 and Level 3? How does blind tasting work in WSET exams? Is WSET certification worth it? What are the hardest parts of the WSET Level 3 exam? Can you skip WSET Level 1 and go straight to Level 2? What are the key sparkling wine styles covered in WSET Level 3? How do I apply the BLIC (Balance, Length, Intensity, Complexity) method? What

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