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Knowledge is Power

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Karen is an LCBO employee that recently completed the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines. She shared with us her journey and 2023 goals:

Why did you pursue the course? Goals? Objectives?

I come from the Toronto event and planning world, where I was able to assist my high end clients with selections of wines.

Moving forward from a COVID employment loss, I found myself with a job at the LCBO, after relocating to Prince Edward County.

The course allows for me to totally experience and offer recommendations soundly to our customers as I am immersed in one of the LCBO “A” Stores, where I have access to a selection of wines in varying price ranges.

How does it help you in your personal or career goals?

I am in pursuit of applying for a PC (Product Consultant position), within the LCBO and the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines course is the first stepping stone, to solidify my background and newly acquired extensive knowledge in grapes and wines.

Advice to the next generation of students?

Knowledge is power and sound advice when working with either customers or clients adds to your credibility in the world of wine. The world is your oyster and nothing comes easy but, the results and opportunities are incredible.

Holiday Gift Ideas

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Explore New Zealand Pinot Noir with John Szabo
With the support of New Zealand Wine Growers, join Master Sommelier and IWEG visiting instructor John Szabo for an evening of tasting and exploration of New Zealand Pinot Noir. The masterclass will take place on Thursday, February 2nd, 2023 at 6:30pm – 8:30pm.
Sign up now!

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WSET Level 1 Award in Wines
Build your confidence when tasting wine, reading a wine list, buying a bottle or pairing wine with food.
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Four glasses of various wines with the course material for WSET Level 3 Award in Wines

WSET Level 3 Award in Wines
Taste and describe with confidence the characteristics of the principal wines of the world and give information on the key factors influencing style, quality and price.
Sign up now!

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Edinburgh Whisky Academy Online Courses
Explore the rich history of Scotch whisky, Irish whiskey or gin.
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WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits
Build your confidence when making a cocktail, reading a drinks list or stocking up your bar.
Sign up now!

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Taste the Austrian Grand Crus of the Danube Valley with John Szabo
With the support of Austrian Wine, join Master Sommelier and IWEG visiting instructor John Szabo for an evening of tasting and exploration of the Austrian Grand Crus of the Danube Valley. The masterclass will take place on Thursday, March 30th, 2023 at 6:30pm – 8:30pm.
Sign up now!

Focus on the Grand Crus of the Napa Valley with John Szabo
With the support of Napa Valley Vintners, join Master Sommelier and IWEG visiting instructor John Szabo for an afternoon of tasting and exploration focusing on the Grand Crus of the Napa Valley. The masterclass will take place on Monday, May 1st, 2023 at 2pm – 4pm.
Sign up now!

A bottle of wine, a glass of red wine and the Italian Wine Scholar study manuals for unit 1 on the wines of Northern Italy and unit 2 on the wines of Central and Southern Italy.

Italian Wine Scholar
Develop specialist knowledge of DOC and DOCG wines and appreciate the cultural context of Italian wine.
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WSET Level 2 Award in Wines
Gain knowledge of the principal and regionally important grape varieties of the world, the regions in which they are grown and the styles of wine they produce.
Sign up now!

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WSET Level 2 Award in Spirits
Become a more confident spirits taster and learn how to use a globally-recognized approach to tasting to analyze the appearance, nose, palate and quality level of a range of styles.
Sign up now!

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International Wine and Spirit Competition: Emerging Talent Awards

The International Wine and Spirit Competition’s (IWSC) Emerging Talent awards are an unparalleled opportunity for new and exciting voices within the industry to make their name and to build exposure and recognition for their work.

The winner of each of the six Emerging Talent awards will be granted a £2,500 travel bursary, courtesy of the IWSC Foundation, to enable them to further their education and development within their chosen field. These awards are open to everyone of all ages and all professions of the drinks trade.

Entry to the 2023 Emerging Talent Awards is now open. Download the entry forms and return them before Friday, January 27, 2023 to marketing@iwsc.net.

Learn more.