Rancho Bernardo Inn
A beginner-level introduction to spirits for those starting a career in the industry or pursuing an interest in spirits.
WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits - San diego
A beginner level introduction to spirits for those starting a career in the industry or pursuing an interest in spirits.
For individuals new to the subject, this qualification offers a hands-on introduction to the world of spirits. You’ll explore the main styles and types of spirits through sight, smell, and taste to develop an understanding of the key factors affecting flavours and aromas.
WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits Details
WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits
This qualification has a minimum requirement of six guided learning hours with a WSET course provider.*
What you’ll learn
- The basic principles of spirit production
- The main types and styles of spirits
- How to serve spirits
- Factors affecting the flavour of spirits
- How to describe spirits using the WSET Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting Spirits® (SAT)
Assessment
Assessment is by a closed-book exam of 30 multiple-choice questions.
This qualification is regulated by Ofqual.
Entry requirements
There are no entry requirements for this qualification. You must be of legal drinking age in the country where you are attending the course to participate in any alcohol tasting. However, this is not a barrier to successfully completing the qualification.
Requirements may vary by course provider.
Course Information
Please see below for the specification for the Level 1 Award in Spirits.
Wine Education
Wine Adventures
Wine Education
Wine Adventures
Wine Education
Wine Adventures
WSET Level 1 Award in Wines: Starting Jan 29th
2 Day Class: 1/29 & 2/05: 5 to 9pm Cost: $395
Enrolling Now: At Bernardo Winery
Before enrolling read our Policy and Procedures and Cancellation and Refund Policy.
For reasonable accommodations, you must contact us before enrolling for approval at al@freakgrapes.com
Resit fee is $120
WSET Level 1 Award in Wines: Mar 15th at Bernardo Winery
1 Day Only: Mar 15th, 10am to 5pm COST: $410 w/Lunch & Tour
Enrolling Now: Includes Lunch and Winery Tour
Before enrolling read our Policy and Procedures and Cancellation and Refund Policy.
For reasonable accommodations, you must contact us before enrolling for approval at al@freakgrapes.com
Resit fee is $120
UPCOMING CLASSES & EVENTS
DISCOVER OUR WINE EXPERIENCES
Join us for certification-backed wine classes, guided tastings, and immersive wine adventures. Whether you’re building foundational knowledge or deepening your expertise, our experiences are designed to be approachable, engaging, and memorable.
Wine Exploration: Grenache
06/18/2026
WSET Level 2
06/21/2026
Day 1
WSET Level 2
06/21/2026
WSET Level 2
06/28/2026
Day 2
WSET Level 2
06/28/2026
Wine Exploration:
07/08/2026
Check In Starts at 5:30
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Freaky People Grape Adventures course enrollment is confirmed as soon as payment is received. If a student wishes to cancel enrollment in a course they must notify Freaky People Grape Adventures in writing at least 14 business days in advance of the first class. A student who cancels more than 14 business days before instruction begins receives all monies returned with the exception of any non-refundable registration fees(study guides and/or examination fees).
- If cancellation is requested in writing 7 to 14 business days before instruction begins, the student will be refunded 80% the cost of the course, with the exception of any non-refundable registration fees.
- If cancellation is requested in writing between 2 to 7 business days before instruction begins, no refund will be issued but the student can request to have the funds held as a credit towards another course with the exception of any non-refundable registration fees(study guides and/or examination fees). It is up to the discretion of Freaky People Grape Adventures whether or not this credit will be issued.
- Cancellations requested in writing less than 48 hours prior to instruction commencement or after the class or course has begun will receive no refund or credit issued.
Freaky People Grape Adventures is not liable for verbal cancellation requests or written cancellation requests not received. It is the responsibility of the student to follow up and confirm receipt of any written cancellation request.
Should Freaky People Grape Adventures need to cancel a class or course for any reason, the student will be refunded tuition.
Thank you for your understanding, if you have any questions, email: info@freakypeoplegrapeadventures.com
PLAN YOUR EXPERIENCE
BOOK A GUIDED WINE EXPERIENCE
Join us for an immersive, educator-led wine experience designed to deepen your understanding and enjoyment of wine. From guided tastings to private group sessions, each experience is thoughtful, engaging, and approachable.
RESERVE YOUR SPOT FOR AN UPCOMING EXPERIENCE
VOICES FROM OUR COMMUNITY
Testimonials from wine lovers like you
"I highly recommend Freaky Grape People Adventures to anyone looking to start their wine education journey! I had such a great experience taking the WSET Level 1 class! Al was clear, engaging, and made the material easy to understand. The environment was fun and welcoming, which made learning even more enjoyable. By the end of the course, I felt confident and well-prepared for my test. I’m already signing up for the Level 2 course with them."
Sabrina Labrosse
WSET® Level 1 Student
"Al and Julie were amazing! The level 1 WSET class was a wonderful day from start to finish. I learned so much and had some incredible sensory experiences along the way. I can't wait to go back for level 2!"
Michelle Owens
WSET® Level 1 Student
"I've had the pleasure of taking Al's WSET level 1 as well as multiple wine region courses (2 Spanish, 1 Italian, and 1 French). Al makes topics clear and concise, fun, engaging, and interesting. Julie adds her knowledge regarding food and culture to each region class. I wouldn't recommend their classes enough!"
Andrea Bower
WSET® Level 1 Student
"I took the WSET 1 and 2. I really enjoyed the classes. We got to try so many different wines and It was very informative. I learned so much and highly recommend the classes. Al is a great instructor 👍"
Marla Martin
WSET® Level 1 & 2 Student
"I did my WSET1 course with Al and Julie and have been attending their Summer Series wine classes that have been fun and educational at the same time. I enjoy their teaching styles and look forward to taking WSET2 with them, along with the Spirits classes when that starts up!"
Paul Pacis
WSET® Level 1 Student
"I just completed the MSET Level 2 wine classes taught by Al and Julie from Freaky People Grape Adventures. I wanted to complement them both, the class was interesting, well organized, I learned a great about wines from all over the world, and most importantly, it was fun! Al is very knowledgeable on the spectrum of wine related topics we covered in the class, he was able to explain some of the less clear aspects of tasting wines, specifically describing the aromas and flavors, in a very understandable manner. Thanks to you both!"
John Sheridan
WSET® Level 2 Student
"I've taken the WSET level 1 with Al and Julie and they are the best! So knowledgeable and really want you to succeed. We've also joined for their monthly regional wine classes (Spain, Italy and Southern France... Loire Valley up next!) and they are so fun. They bring the best of wine knowledge for the region, unique tastings, and tie it with food and culture. Planning on taking the WSET level 2 with them next!"
Danee Ta
WSET® Level 1 Student
"I received my WSET 2 certification through Freaky People Grape Adventures and cannot recommend them enough. Al truly focused us on the material that we would be tested on and helped to break down some of the barriers that can sometimes intimidate people starting out in their wine education journey. Classes were fun and very interactive. I learned a ton and definitely felt ready on test day. Al is a fantastic resource and will ensure that you have the support you need."
Yesse Grossman
WSET® Level 2 Student
"Al and Julie are great! Not only are they both very knowledgeable, we have a great time at their events and classes! 10/10 would recommend if you’re looking to expand your wine knowledge or just have a good time drinking wine with great people in your community."
Cara Sun
WSET® Level 1 Student
"100% recommended! Al is a great teacher, patient, easy to talk too and well prepared. Learned a lot during the course WSET2 which I just finished and passed. Would definitely done WSET3 too at Freaky People Grape Adventures if they would have offered it. But I will be back for other fun learning experiences for sure!"
Kim Wilbers
WSET® Level 2 Student
"Al stays on topic and helps you focus on what you need to know for the WSET exams. Expand your wine knowledge and systematic approach to tasting. I’m thankful for freaky people grape adventures for helping me successfully pass my WSET 2 exam with distinction. Looking forward to other classes offered in the future."
Ninon M.
WSET® Level 2 Student
"Freaky Grapes in-person class was engaging as well as informative. Teacher Al clearly communicates course information and expectations of students. We had multiple opportunities to get help with any questions we had prior to testing. So glad to have passed my test and have the certification for my career in hospitality. Thanks Freaky Grapes!"
Monique Johnston
WSET® Level 1 Student
"Took L1 WSET With Al and Julie today. They are knowledgeable, friendly, and so helpful. They made the day so fun and I learned so much!"
Maria DeVore
WSET® Level 1 Student
"Al and Julie were great instructors. It’s clear they have an abundance of knowledge about wine and are passionate about it. The class was fun and interactive. I’d highly recommend them!"
Libby Bergmann
WSET® Level 1 Student
"I took the WSET Level 2 course with Freaky People Grape Adventures. Learned all I needed to know to successfully complete the exam and had fun doing it! Highly recommend this course."
Beth Westerlund
WSET® Level 2 Student
"Really enjoyed the WSET wine education they provided. If you want to learn a lot about wine, and have fun during the process, I highly recommend Freaky People Grape Adventures."
David Westerlund
WSET® Level 1 Student
"Best private wine tasting ever!"
Michelle Arandjelovic
WSET® Level 1 Student