Wines of the World

This module enables students to critically evaluate the production, style, quality and trading methods of many of the world’s principal wine styles. Students will learn the theory underpinning many of the most successful wine regions of the world and this will be supported by in-depth practical tasting exercises.

This module will include:

• Wines of France; including Bordeaux, Burgundy, the Rhône Valley, Languedoc-Roussillon, Beaujolais, the Loire and Alsace.
• Wines of Europe; including Italy, Spain, Germany and Portugal.
• Wines from the rest of the world; including Australia, California, South Africa, Chile, Argentina and New Zealand.
• Speciality wines; including rosé, ethical, skin-ferment and modified wines.
• Wine production factors: location, climate, soil, grape variety, production, and maturation.
• Trade and legal structures: trade bodies, relevant legislation and pricing.
• Principal organoleptic characteristics: appearance, nose, taste, degree of maturity, style and quality.

The outcomes of this module:

• Evaluate the key factors affecting the production, style, quality and commercial value of the principal European wines of the world.
• Describe and analyse the organoleptic characteristics of the principal examples of European wines of the world.
• Evaluate the key factors affecting the production, style, quality and commercial value of the principal wines from the rest of the world beyond Europe.
• Describe and analyse the organoleptic characteristics of the principal examples of wines from the rest of the world beyond Europe.

Applicable to each module

• GCSE Mathematics at grade 4 or above (grade C or above under the A*-G system)
• GCSE English at grade 4 or above (grade C or above under the A*-G system)

The following qualifications are recommended prior to applying:

• WSET Level 2 Award in Wines (Pass)
• Level 3 qualification such as A Level (two subjects)
• BTEC Extended Diploma (MPP)
• Access to HE in a related subject
• We also consider applicants with relevant industry experience if over 21 years of age. 
• Students with English as a second language will be required to have gained IELTS at 6.5 overall with 6.0 in Writing.

Applicants wishing to progress onto an undergraduate course would need to meet the minimum entry criteria for that specific course which typically includes a Level 3 qualification with UCAS Tariff points (56 points and above).