Frequently Asked Questions

WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) is a globally recognised wine, spirits and sake education body. In Hong Kong, WSET is a common pathway for enthusiasts and hospitality professionals who want structured tasting skills and an internationally recognised certificate. Vinifera offers WSET courses in Sheung Wan for learners who want a professional yet engaging classroom experience.

If you are new to wine, Level 1 is a gentle introduction to styles, storage and service. If you already drink wine regularly and want grape varieties, regions and labelling, many students start at Level 2. Vinifera can help you choose based on your background and goals before you enrol.

Level 2 builds core product knowledge and tasting method. Level 3 is more analytical: you study how factors of production shape style, quality and price, and you sit a more demanding theory and tasting assessment. Level 3 suits serious enthusiasts and people working in wine, retail or hospitality.

WSET Level 1 Award in Wines — exam format (not a school pass rate): Duration: 45 minutes. Format: 30 multiple-choice questions. Passing grade: 70%.

WSET Level 2 — exam format and WSET passing grades (score bands, not school pass rates): Duration: 60 minutes. Format: 50 multiple-choice questions. Passing grade Pass: 55%–69%. Pass with Merit: 70%–84%. Pass with Distinction: 85% and above. Separate school pass-rate figures for 23–24: L2 Global (23–24): 93%. Vinifera (23–24): 100%.

WSET Level 3 — exam format and WSET passing grades (score bands, not school pass rates): Unit 1 – Theory Examination: Duration: 60 minutes; Format: 50 multiple-choice questions (Part 1) and 4 short written answers, 25 marks each (Part 2); a minimum mark of 55% is required in both Part 1 and Part 2. Unit 2 – Tasting Examination: Duration: 30 minutes; Format: Blind tasting of two wines; a mark of 55% is required to achieve a pass in Unit 2. Passing grade: Pass – aggregate mark of between 55% and 64%; Pass with Merit: aggregate mark of between 65% and 79%; Pass with Distinction: aggregate mark of 80% and above with no individual examination paper below 65%. Candidates must achieve a pass in both units. Separate school pass-rate figures for 23–24: L3 Global (23–24): 57%. Vinifera (23–24): over 80%. Passing rate of Distinction at Vinifera: Over 50% Distinction.

School pass rates (not WSET exam score bands) for 23–24: L2 Global (23–24): 93%. Vinifera (23–24): 100%. L3 Global (23–24): 57%. Vinifera (23–24): over 80%. Passing rate of Distinction at Vinifera: Over 50% Distinction. These figures may vary by intake and are not a guarantee of individual results.

No. Many students join for personal interest. Industry experience helps at higher levels, but beginners are welcome at entry courses. What matters is curiosity and willingness to taste and study.

Yes. Vinifera offers WSET courses in wines and spirits. For sake, we offer SSI qualifications — sake is taught through SSI, not WSET. We also run masterclasses, tastings and wine events. Check the current course list on viniferahk.com for open intakes.

Compare location, timetable, educator credentials, class size and teaching style, tasting line-up and exam support. Ask whether teaching language and exam language match your needs. Visit or speak with the school before paying — fit matters as much as price.

Vinifera is at 3A, Wing Hing Commercial Building, 139 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong. The centre is in a very convenient location that is easy to reach for most learners across Hong Kong.

Vinifera positions itself as a vivid, stylish learning environment rather than a purely institutional classroom. The founder, Cheng Ting Hei (Hei), has 13 years in the wine industry, holds the WSET Level 4 Diploma, is a Master of Wine student and a WSET Certified Educator. Vinifera has been an accredited provider for nearly 4 years.

Courses are taught by qualified educators. Founder Cheng Ting Hei (Hei) leads the school's academic direction, with 13 years in the wine industry; the teaching team covers WSET Wines and Spirits at the levels offered. See the About page for current educator profiles.

Yes. Beginners typically start with an introductory WSET wines course or a tasting workshop or event. Staff can recommend the right first step if you are unsure.

Confirm the intake you choose. Vinifera commonly notes arrangements such as Cantonese teaching with English materials and an English exam (wording may vary by course). Always check the specific class listing before enrolment.

Duration depends on level. Entry courses are shorter; Level 2 and Level 3 require more tutorial hours plus self-study. Each course page lists tutorial hours, timetable and exam details.

Yes — structured tasting is central to WSET training. The number and style of wines, spirits or sake depend on the qualification. Course pages and specifications outline what is covered.

WSET allows re-sits under its rules and fees. Talk to Vinifera about re-sit timing, preparation support and any school admin process for your intake.

Fees vary by level, provider and inclusions such as materials, exam and tastings. Vinifera publishes original and special prices on course timetables when offers apply. We also offer alumni pricing, group discounts, distinction coupons and industry discounts — contact us for details. Check the live course page for current pricing.

Browse courses on viniferahk.com, review the timetable and price, then tap Enroll Now to message us on WhatsApp — we will guide you through the next steps. You can also WhatsApp us directly at +852 6022 9038.

Schedules change by intake. Each course timetable lists dates and times. If you need a specific slot, contact Vinifera before enrolling — new classes open periodically.

Yes. Vinifera also runs masterclasses, tasting workshops, wine dinners and events for learners who want practice and community beyond formal certification.

WSET is widely recognised in hospitality, retail and trade. It does not guarantee a job, but Levels 2–3 often strengthen CVs for sommelier, wine retail and brand roles. Combine study with tasting practice and industry exposure.

Learners in Hong Kong who want internationally recognised WSET training in a boutique Sheung Wan setting — especially those who value educator credentials, an engaging classroom style and optional events to keep learning after class.