Grape varieties

There are over 100 varieties you need to know for WSET3 and you’ll discover more as you continue your journey.

WSET3 focus is on grape varieties commonly found in countries and key regions - so you’ll have to know a variety of Muscat, differences in Pinot Gris palate from several countries. Don’t worry - all the varietals you must know are in the syllabus.

Bottle of Taurasi DOCG wine

Aglianico

Italy’s enigmatic grape variety known for its bold character and complex flavors - some call it the Nebbiolo of the South. If you like Barolo you’ll probably like this.
Notable Regions: Italy South,
Tastes of: Forest floor, Mushroom, Plums, Cherries,
Style of Wine: Dry,
Albariño

Albariño / Alvarino

Spain’s charismatic grape variety that weaves tales of ocean breezes, lush orchards, and irresistible flavors.
Notable Regions: Spain, Portugal,
Tastes of: Saline, Apple, Pear, Grapefruit,
Style of Wine: Dry,
Assyrtiko wine bottle and glass

Assyrtiko

Discover the Assyrtiko grape, known for its high acidity and minerality, often grown in Greece’s volcanic soils.
Notable Regions: Greece, Australia,
Tastes of: Saline, Lemon, Stonefruit, Green apple, Minerality, Passion fruit,
Style of Wine: Dry, Off dry, Sweet,

Baga

Step into the world of Baga, a Portuguese grape variety renowned for its distinctive character and remarkable wines.
Notable Regions: Portugal,
Tastes of: Spice, Black plum, Black cherry,
Style of Wine: Dry, Sparkling,
Bottle of Barbera wine from Australia

Barbera

Immerse yourself in the world of Barbera, Italy’s beloved grape variety celebrated for its lively character and remarkable wines.
Notable Regions: Italy Piemonte,
Tastes of: Red cherry, Red plum, Pepper,
Style of Wine: Dry,

Blauer Portugieser

Take a journey into the captivating world of Blauer Portugieser.
Notable Regions: Germany - Pfalz, Germany - Rheinhessen, Austria,
Tastes of: Cherry, Strawberry,
Style of Wine: Dry,

Blaufränkisch

Embark on a journey into the captivating world of Blaufränkisch, Austria’s celebrated grape variety known for its rich character and elegant wines.
Notable Regions: Austria,
Tastes of: Pepper, Sour cherry, Blackberry,
Style of Wine: Dry,

Bourboulenc

Discover Bourboulenc, a grape variety that quietly weaves its magic in Mediterranean vineyards.
Notable Regions: France - Southern Rhône,
Tastes of: Green apple, Lemon,
Style of Wine: Dry,

Brachetto

Brachetto the other Italian sparkling - strawberry serenades, floral whispers and Italy’s sweet soul.
Notable Regions: Italy Piemonte, Australia,
Tastes of: Strawberry, Raspberry,
Style of Wine: Sweet, Off dry, Sparkling,

Cabernet Franc

Explore the timeless elegance of Cabernet Franc, a grape that lends its soul to some of the world’s most exquisite wines.
Notable Regions: France Loire, France Bordeaux,
Tastes of: Raspberry, Red cherry, Bell pepper, Spice, Violet,
Style of Wine: Dry,