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.

Muscat of Alexandria

Discover the ancient Muscat of Alexandria grape, renowned for its aromatic richness and versatility in winemaking.
Notable Regions: Spain, Greece, Australia,
Tastes of: Apricot, Peach, Orange blossom,
Style of Wine: Dry, Off dry, Sweet,

Nebbiolo

Discover the noble Nebbiolo grape, known for its bold tannins and complex flavors, revered in Italy’s Piedmont region and beyond.
Notable Regions: Italy, New Zealand,
Tastes of: Tar, Roses, Cherry,
Style of Wine: Dry,

Negroamaro

Explore the bold flavors and rich history of Negroamaro, a robust red grape variety from southern Italy.
Notable Regions: Italy, USA, Australia,
Tastes of: Plum, Blackberry, Black cherry,
Style of Wine: Dry,

Nero d'Avola

Discover the bold and robust Nero d’Avola, celebrated for its deep flavors and versatility in winemaking.
Notable Regions: Italy Sicily, New Zealand,
Tastes of: Tar, Roses, Cherry,
Style of Wine: Dry,

Palomino

Discover the versatile Palomino grape, known for its role in sherry production and its unique characteristics.
Notable Regions: Spain, South Africa,
Tastes of: Apple, Almond, Citrus,
Style of Wine: Dry, Off dry, Sweet,

Petit Manseng

Explore the unique characteristics of Petit Manseng, a versatile grape variety known for its vibrant acidity and rich, exotic flavors.
Notable Regions: France South West, New Zealand,
Tastes of: Apricot, Peach, Orange blossom,
Style of Wine: Dry, Off dry, Sweet,

Petit Verdot

Explore the unique characteristics of Petit Verdot, a bold and complex grape variety known for its deep color and rich flavors.
Notable Regions: France South West, New Zealand,
Tastes of: Black cherry, Plum, Violet, Spice,
Style of Wine: Dry, Off dry, Sweet,

Picpoul

Discover the crisp acidity and refreshing citrus flavors of Picpoul wines from Languedoc to California.
Notable Regions: France, Australia, USA,
Tastes of: Lemon, Lime, Grapefruit, Saline,
Style of Wine: Dry, Sparkling,

Pinot Blanc

Discover the elegance of Pinot Blanc, celebrated for its crisp acidity, delicate fruit flavors, and versatile styles ranging from dry to off-dry. Explore its expressions in Alsace, Germany, and Italy’s Trentino-Alto Adige region.
Notable Regions: France (Alsace), Germany, Italy (Trentino-Alto Adige),
Tastes of: Apple, Pear, Citrus,
Style of Wine: Dry, Off dry,

Pinot Gris

Explore the versatile profile of Pinot Gris, known for its crisp acidity, delicate fruit flavors, and adaptability to various styles from dry to off-dry. Discover its expressions in cool climate regions of Australia and New Zealand, alongside classic European appellations.
Notable Regions: France Alsace, Italy (Friuli-Venezia Giulia), Australia, New Zealand,
Tastes of: Pear, Apple, Stone fruit,
Style of Wine: Dry, Off dry,