wine and spirits education trust

WSET is the world’s leading provider of drinks qualifications.

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Our qualifications, level 1 award in beer (coming soon), level 2 award in beer (coming soon), level 1 award in wines, level 2 award in wines, level 3 award in wines, level 4 diploma in wines, level 1 award in spirits, level 2 award in spirits, level 3 award in spirits, level 1 award in sake, level 2 award in sake (coming soon), level 3 award in sake.

The Wine & Spirit Education Trust

The Texas Wine School is a proud provider of the following WSET Classes (with both in person and online options):

WSET Level 1 in Wines WSET Level 2 in Wines WSET Level 3 in Wines WSET Level 4 (Diploma) in Wines WSET Level 1 in Spirits WSET Level 2 in Spirits

The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) was founded in 1969 to provide high quality wine education classes in wines and spirits for those already in or intending to join the trade, and enthusiastic consumers throughout the world.

The wine and spirit qualification courses cover product knowledge and tasting skills, making them suitable for all those who need such knowledge for their job as well as for those who have a general interest. Students learn how wine is made, the main types and styles of wine as well as the factors that influence wine style and quality, common wine grapes and their characteristics, how to store and serve wine, the principals of food and wine pairing, labeling terminology, and how to describe wine using a systematic approach to tasting.

Classes cover different levels of knowledge and skill, from absolute beginner to expert.  In-person classes are primarily held in Houston, with a few offerings in Austin, San Antonio, Spring or other venues. Prices include tuition, study materials, and exam fees. Resit fees cost $50 for Level 1, $150 for Level 2, and $100 & $150 for the Level 3 tasting and theory exams respectively.

Each class has a total qualification time (TQT) which is the approximate amount of time a student needs to devote to study to be successful in the class. The total qualification time includes all classroom hours plus any time spent taking the exam and independently studying. The TQT, as well as more information on what each course assesses and covers may be found in the course specifications attached below:

About the Wine and Spirit Education Trust

The WSET has over 50 years’ experience in the design and delivery of wine education classes and qualifications in wines and spirits. In that time, it has grown to become the largest global provider of wine education classes, with over 100,000 examination candidates per year, in 72 countries and 17 different languages. WSET is a UK-based educational charity that works closely with the drinks industry, educational partners worldwide and the relevant regulatory authorities, always striving to provide best-in-class education and qualifications to inspire and empower the students that take their courses. They continually work in close liaison with all sectors of the drinks and hospitality industry to ensure that the standards laid out in each syllabus provide a service that not only meets but also exceeds the needs and expectations of our customers.

In order to protect the integrity of our qualifications, WSET Awards retain full control of the marking and issue processes. We also ensure that we set sound and fair examinations which assess candidates against these standards as we have a duty of care to all candidates.

As independent evidence of the achievement of these objectives, WSET Awards has put in place a Quality Management system that complies with the International Standard BS EN ISO 9001:2000 thereby establishing a systematic framework for continuous quality improvement.

Entry Requirements:

Students and candidates who are under the legal minimum age for the retail purchase of alcoholic beverages in the country where the examination is being held will NOT be allowed to sample any alcoholic beverages as part of their course, but this is NOT a barrier for successfully completing the Levels 1 and 2 qualifications.

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The wset diploma: is it right for you.

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Close up detail of female student studying wine

With so much of the world on lockdown due to COVID-19, many wine lovers now consider this a good time to expand their wine education with an online course. Wine courses range from those with a single country focus, to others that provide a globalized view of the wine industry as a whole.

History of WSET

The Wine and Spirit Educational Trust (WSET) was founded in 1969 as a charitable trust, to serve the educational needs of the UK wine and spirits industry. One of the key reasons for its creation was to provide a systematic approach to tasting wine across the wine trade, so that wine professionals could speak about wine with a common language.

In the last 50 years, there have been over 10,000 WSET Level 4 Diploma graduates. The Diploma comprises six individual units each student must successfully pass in order to receive the qualification. Though many wine certification courses are created for people working in the trade (sommeliers, wholesalers, importers), the WSET is also appropriate for very motivated consumers.

WSET Awards in Wines

This is especially true of the introductory WSET Level 1 Award in Wines , where students first learn the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting ® (SAT). The systematic approach to tasting is the foundation of the WSET program. This is because one of the program’s goals is to have WSET students across the globe use a standardized vocabulary to describe the aromas, flavors, and structure of wine.

At this WSET Level 1 Award in Wines, students explore the main types and styles of wine. Food and wine pairing fundamentals are covered. According to Jean K Reilly Master of Wine and founder/owner of the Slate Wine and Spirits Academy , the Level 1 Award in Wines is one of the most fun courses. The reason is because students enjoy the lessons of pairing wines and cuisine from actual restaurant menus. The Level 2 Award in Wines builds on the Level 1 foundation. With the successful passing of each of these levels, a new certificate and lapel pin is awarded. Though the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines follows the first two courses, it is quite advanced in comparison to the previous two levels.

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Male sommelier tasting red wine and making notes at bar counter.

The Level 4 Diploma in Wines

This is a very intense program that can take between 18 months to three years to complete. Admission to the Diploma program requires completion of the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines certificate. Students with extensive experience in the wine trade may skip the first two levels with course provider approval. At the end of the Diploma program, successful students will have the right to use the DipWSET post-nominal after their name. The Diploma is delivered in six mandatory units covering a broad range of topics including viticulture, wine production, wine business, and still, sparkling and fortified wines of the world.

Though the option to take the classes online makes it easier to work through the material during periods of free time, it is a rigorous course. Class materials are provided, but students need to buy their own wine as part of the course requirements. This can be a considerable expense in itself. Familiarity with still wines, sparkling wines, and fortified wines of virtually every part of the wine producing world are a core part of the program.

Finding a Course Provider

Though WSET offers classes online, WSET suggests that students should let their preferred exam location dictate their choice of which school to register with. The online instruction itself is the same all over the world. But the school / provider that students register with will be the one to send study materials and the school that will administer the exam at its physical location. One can use a search engine to find a WSET provider nearby or visit the WSET Global website to see a list of program providers.

WSET Education Outside Scheduled Courses

If you want to better understand the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting ® (SAT) and use it to improve your tasting notes without taking a course, you can easily do so. The first step is to download the SAT tasting sheets here . Much of the information wine lovers need to fill out to make a note for a wine, such as color, aromas, and flavors, are self-explanatory. The best practice is to simply record everyday wine drinking experiences with the appropriate SAT sheet at hand. Some students like to print out fresh copies of the SAT sheets to fill out with each wine. Others record their tasting notes in small notebooks with the SAT sheets as a guide.

The WSET Tasting App

WSET has made it even easier for students to follow the SAT format with a free online app that can be downloaded to your phone ( WSET App ). The app has a database of over 300 wine producing countries and regions, and 100 pre-populated grape varieties. It also includes professional tips to guide you through the app, and the ability to record notes in “blind” tasting mode. Best of all, you can upload photos to your wine notes and search through your own stored tasting notes.

Old vintage typewriter with glass of wine pencils and books in this retro creative writing and ... [+] relazation themed desk top

Reasons Why Wine Lovers Seek WSET Certification

Consumers take wine classes for many reasons. Jean K. Reilly MW says that many students have heard about the classes and feel it is the best training to become familiar with different styles of wine. Mary Ewing-Mulligan Master of Wine and President of the International Wine Center (IWS) in Manhattan since 1994, says “Some of our particularly dedicated Diploma students have been those who are motivated by their passion for wine rather than by any professional need for the accomplishment. Many of them have remained in their non-wine careers while enjoying the networking that’s inherent to such a challenging shared experience.” Reginald Soloman, Senior Associate Director, Major Gifts, at Yale University says: “Completing the diploma was exciting. I experience the benefits of the Diploma every time I peruse a wine list or travel to wine regions across the world.”

Beyond wine, you can also take WSET courses in sake and spirits. Click here to find out more.

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Welcome to The Wine House – Los Angeles A Wine & Spirit Education Trust Provider

One-Stop Guide To Wine Education Courses

Embark on Your Wine Education and Career

Beyond the stereotype of wine professionals as mere connoisseurs lies a world of dedicated study and diverse career paths. In this guide, we explore wine education courses, offering insights into becoming a sommelier , Master of Wine, or even a winemaker. Whether you’re looking to enhance your resume with a WSET certification or seeking comprehensive wine knowledge for personal satisfaction, we cover it all.

Guide to Wine Education Courses

Which of the world’s wine education courses is best for you?

A professional background in wine education is crucial for aspiring sommeliers, wine educators, and winemakers. This guide highlights the key wine qualifications and sommelier courses out there. It’s a roadmap for those looking to delve into wine tasting, wine service, and winemaking.

We’ll be covering 7 main wine education courses that have proven to increase people’s chances to get jobs in the wine business. These wine education courses include:

International Sommelier Guild (ISG)

• Court of Masters Sommeliers (CMS)

Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW)

• Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET)

Wine Scholar Guild (WSG)

• University Viticulture and Enology Programs

Wine Folly School

ISG offers a practical and accessible start to wine education, and your sommelier training, making it ideal for beginners looking to build a solid foundation in wine knowledge and tasting skills.

ISG Details

• Audience: Beginners
• Prerequisites: None
• Duration & Courses: 3 to 9 months
• Content: Multiple choice exams, essays, blind tastings
• Wine Jobs: Wine sales, wine distribution, general management
• Cost: Approx. $800-$8,000

www.internationalsommelier.com

Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS)

Renowned for its prestige and rigor, CMS is the pinnacle of sommelier education, attracting those who aim to excel in the art of wine service and knowledge. The journey to becoming a Master Sommelier is intense with only a small percentage of candidates achieving this elite status.

CMS Details

• Audience: Industry professionals
• Prerequisites: None for beginners, prior certification for advanced levels
• Duration: 7-10 years for Master level
• Content: Service exams, blind wine tastings, theory
• Wine Jobs: Sommelier, account manager, wine director
• Cost: $600-$20,000 (introductory levels), higher for Master Sommelier

Fun Fact: The fourth and final stage of Court of Master Sommelier has a pass rate of 10%.

www.mastersommeliers.org

Becoming a Master of Wine represents the zenith of wine education, offering a challenging-yet-rewarding path for those deeply committed to the world of wine. The notoriously difficult qualification is for those who seek to continue their education, normally after taking other education programs or equivalent background, to become one of the world’s top wine educators.

• Audience: Advanced students and Industry professionals
• Prerequisites: WSET Diploma or equivalent experience
• Duration: 3-6 years
• Content: Critical thinking, global business, extensive writing, practical assessments, blind tastings, in depth theory of viticulture, enology, transport, and trade.
• Wine Jobs: Wine Director, Director of Education, Wine Buyer, Consultant, Winemaker
• Cost: $15,000-$30,000

Fun Fact: More people have been to space than have earned the title of Master of Wine.

www.mastersofwine.org

Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET)

WSET provides a comprehensive and structured approach to wine education, catering to a range of learners from enthusiastic beginners to seasoned professionals seeking in-depth knowledge.

WSET Details

• Audience: Beginners to advanced learners
• Prerequisites: None for entry-level; higher levels may require prior WSET certification
• Duration: 0-3 years
• Content: Theory, practical exams, tastings
• Wine Jobs: Marketing, education, distribution management, sales
• Cost: $250 (lower levels) – $10,000 for WSET Level 4 Diploma.

www.wsetglobal.com

The Wine Scholar Guild immerses students in the rich and varied wine regions of France, Italy, and Spain, offering specialized, in-depth studies for those passionate about regional wine characteristics and heritage.

WSG Details

• Audience: Wine professionals and enthusiasts
• Duration: 25-150 hours
• Content: Focus on specific classic wine regions, with study abroad opportunities
• Wine Jobs: Specialist of Italian, French or Spanish wines, sales, marketing
• Cost: $475-$875 (ranges depending on level)

www.winescholarguild.com

Degree in Enology and Viticulture

If you want to become a winemaker, this is a great place to start. University degrees in enology (winemaking) and viticulture (grape growing) cover the scientific aspects of winemaking from the vineyard to the bottle. The top universities programs offer bachelor’s to doctorate programs.

Degree Details

• Audience: Aspiring wine scientists, researchers, winemakers, vineyard managers
• Prerequisites: High school diploma for BS; BS for MS, etc
• Duration: Typically 3-4 years for BS, 1-2 years for MS
• Content: Intensive study of wine science, viticulture, and winemaking processes
• Wine Jobs: Winemaker, vineyard manager, wine researcher
• Cost: Varies by institution; can range from $7,000 to over $45,000 per year

What Are The Top Winemaking University Programs?

University of California Davis , Stellenbosch University , University of Adelaide , Bordeaux Sciences Agro , Cornell University , and Geisenheim University

Wine Folly School redefines wine education with a modern, flexible, and fun approach to online wine courses. Focusing on understanding rather than memorization, it offers a range of courses from beginner to advanced. With its convenient, self-paced online format, Wine Folly School makes learning about wine accessible and enjoyable for everyone. You can get your wine certification from the comfort of your home.

Wine Folly School Details

• Audience: All levels, especially those seeking flexibility and a fun learning environment
• Duration: Self-paced, varies by course from 2 hours – 2 weeks, flexible start dates
• Content: Interactive and enjoyable, focusing on practical knowledge. From the very basics, to region specific deep dives
• Wine Jobs: Sommelier, sales & marketing, winery worker, tasting room associate, tourism
• Cost: $99-$450 (ranges depending on level)

www.winefolly.com

Your Future Awaits

From the hands-on approach of the ISG to the academic rigor of university degrees in Enology and Viticulture, each wine education path offers unique perspectives and challenges. Select the course that aligns with your aspirations, whether it’s the prestigious journey of a Master of Wine or Master Sommelier or the innovative approach of Wine Folly School, and embark on your own enriching wine education adventure.

Written by Christine Marsiglio MW

Christine Marsiglio is Head Wine Educator and Resident Master of Wine for Folly Enterprises and Wine Folly. Christine is a certified Wine & Spirits Education Trust wine educator, a winner of the Bollinger Medal, and holds an MSc in Oenology and Viticulture from École Supérieure d'Agriculture d'Angers, France.

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The 15 Best Cocktail Glasses, According to Bartenders

Our list of expert-recommended glassware includes brands like Riedel, Schott Zwiesel, and Viski.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Favorite Cocktail Glasses

Factors to consider, how we chose which cocktail glasses to evaluate, our expertise.

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Making cocktails at home can be as simple or as complex as you’d like. For some, a small spirits collection with a few staple mixers and a versatile cocktail glass will do. For others, a proud collection of fine spirits, liqueurs, unique mixers, syrups, garnishes, and a wide selection of glassware is the only way to go. This mixologist-recommended roundup of glassware is for home bartenders who love complex cocktails and fine glassware. With everything from classic rocks glasses to more specific glassware like the elegant Nick and Nora, this list covers all of the best cocktail glasses.

With holiday hosting and entertaining in full swing, now is the time to break out the cocktail shaker and mix up your favorite festive cocktail recipes . With our comprehensive and expert-recommended list of the best cocktail glasses, your bar cart will be equipped with only the essentials. 

Best Nick and Nora Glass

Riedel nick and nora cocktail glasses.

There’s just something magical about a cocktail served in a dainty and sophisticated Nick and Nora glass. Whatever it is, the Riedel Nick and Nora glass will make your cocktail night at home feel like an outing at a swanky bar, and they are one of our favorites. The thin nature of the egg-shaped bowl and the slight curve inwards at the top of the glass are two subtle but exceptional features that make this glass feel so good on the lips.

Nick and Nora glasses are also extremely versatile. Christian Almonte is the co-owner of Republic Latin Fusion in Brooklyn, New York, and he is in charge of creating new cocktails and specialty beverages at the restaurant. Almonte says, “The upside to a Nick and Nora glass is they can also function as the perfect glass to enjoy cold aperitifs, or chilled spirits neat. The smaller opening allows for one to receive a more direct punch of aroma and also removes the hand from direct contact, in turn, keeping your neat pour colder for longer. Cold Sake is perfect for this.”

Capacity: 5 ounces | Material: Crystal | Number of glasses: 2

Riedel Veritas Coupe Glasses, Set of 2

The coupe glass was once only used to serve Champagne, but this stylish cup gained popularity in France in the mid-16th century as a multipurpose cocktail vessel. This lovely set from Riedel has all the charm and grace one expects from a set of coupes: a wide bowl with a tall, elegant stem and a durable base. They’re perfect for serving cosmopolitans, Manhattans, and espresso martinis — but no need to limit your options, as there’s a plethora of cocktails fitting for the coupe.

“I am familiar with the Riedel brand, and am a big fan of their pieces,” says Bob Moore, general manager at Miller & Lux , Chef Tyler Florence’s dining destination in San Francisco. Moore is starting to incorporate Riedel glassware at Miller & Lux, in addition to his current favorites.

Capacity: 8.5 ounces | Material: Crystal | Number of glasses: 2

Best Martini Glass

Schott zwiesel martini glass.

To find the best martini glasses , we searched high and low to narrow down our favorites. The Universal Classico Martini glass is made by Schott Zwiesel, a well-known glassware maker in the food and drink industry and whose glassware can be found in restaurants and wineries worldwide. As the name suggests, this glass offers classic features with some bonuses. It has a quintessential martini glass shape with a robust stem and durable base; plus, it’s made from chip- and break-resistant crystal.

Cocktail glass shape matters, “especially for drinks like martinis and Manhattans,” says Shiva Thapa, experienced mixologist and head bartender at Miller & Lux. As the head of the cocktail program at Miller & Lux, Thapa also says glassware like this is “important for presentation, too.”

Capacity: 9 ounces | Material: Crystal | Number of glasses: Sold individually

Best Collins Glass

Rona classic mix drink glass.

Almonte says, “Rona, just like Riedel, is seen in many upscale dining establishments.” And the clean, sleek design of the glass allows the cocktail to do all the talking. These glasses are simple, sophisticated, and sturdy—everything you need in a Collins glass, which is suitable for favorites like the mojito, Tom Collins, gin & tonic, and Long Island iced tea. The tall, thin style feels great in the hand and its weighty bottom makes it very stable.

These glasses can also be used as beer glasses . Almonte says you can “keep a few in the fridge or freezer, as these can also act as the perfect glass to enjoy a nice cold beer.” And Moore says, “We use Rona glassware at Miller & Lux for all of our cocktails.”

Capacity: 11 ounces | Material: Crystal | Number of glasses: 6

Best Highball Glass

Riedel drink specific glassware highball glass.

These lanky glasses hold 11 ounces and feature a slightly wider mouth than others in its category; this makes room to use large-format or spherical ice — always a plus in our book. There’s also a 2-ounce pour line feature, which makes crafting carbonated mix drinks a breeze; simply add your chosen spirit to the 2-ounce pour line, fill ice to the top, then top with your carbonated beverage to complete the perfect ratio every time.

This duo of glasses also features the elegant, etched style for which many of Riedel’s cocktail glasses are known. They are sophisticated, well-made, and loved by bartenders across the country. In our long-term testing of the Riedel highball glasses , we liked their weight and overall versatility.

“The highball is one of my personal favorites,” Almonte says. “They're a workhorse behind any bar. The benefit to every highball glass is the tall and narrow design; this allows for any carbonated beverages such as club soda or ginger beer to keep their carbonation for longer as the gas has less room to escape — nothing worse than getting a drink with flat soda.”

Capacity : 11 ounces | Material: Crystal | Number of glasses: 2

Best Rocks Glass

Spiegelau perfect serve glass set of 4.

For versatile cocktail glasses, the rocks glass wins every time. Form and function combine with a balanced size and weight. The best part about rocks glasses is that “any cocktail looks great it in and it is easy to garnish,” Thapa says. Moore agrees: “The rocks glass is the most versatile. It is a ubiquitous vessel.”

From the Old Fashioned to the ever-popular Negroni , this glass fits the bill with its sleek design and wide mouth for aeration and large-format ice. Almonte says, “The heavy base and elegant design Spiegelau went with here just elevates the entire drinking experience making sipping even the finest of whiskeys even better.”

Capacity: 10 ounces | Material: Glass | Number of glasses: 4

Best Margarita Glass

West elm recycled mexican drinking glass sets.

Thick walls, wide rims, and slight curves make these recycled glass vessels perfect for classic margarita recipes . They are thick in design and offer quite a bit of insulation. Through collaboration with Diego Olivero, a Guatemalan-born industrial designer, they are hand-crafted in Mexico and made from sustainably sourced, recycled glass. For this reason, each set of margarita glasses is unique and offers an artistic component that most glassware lacks. We have also found that they are a versatile glassware option for everyday pours such as water, juice, iced coffee, and tea.

Capacity: 12 ounces | Material: Recycled glass | Number of glasses: 4

Best Double Rocks Glass

Riedel drink specific glassware double rocks glass.

The glassware-specific line from Riedel is tried and true, and we often reach for these sets from our home glassware collection. Their crystal construction and etched design give them an elevated look for cocktails at home and their capacity is significant for larger cocktails. The heavy-weighted bottom makes them very sturdy, which should give them a long life in your growing collection of drinking glasses .

"These glasses are ideal for large-format ice,” says Thapa. Large-format ice has been a growing cocktail trend for good reason. “The ice melts at a slower rate and stays colder for a longer period,” Thapa says. And that means less dilution of your carefully crafted cocktail. Almonte adds, “The double rocks can serve so many classic drinks,” making this pick a staple in any barware collection or a great gift for cocktail lovers .

Capacity: 13 ounces | Material: Crystal | Number of glasses: 2

Best Whiskey Glass

Glencairn whisky glass set.

Grab your whiskey decanter — filled with your finest whiskey, of course — and get ready to fill these fashionable whiskey glasses for an evening of fine sipping. The Glencairn whiskey glass was crafted with whiskey connoisseurs in mind; while the mouth is small, the base is wide, giving this glass excellent aeration and bringing that to the imbiber’s attention when sipping. The size allows for neat sipping only and in small volumes, as should always be the case when enjoying your finest whiskey .

“For all the whiskey heads out there this glass is perfect!” says Almonte. Pro tip: “You never want to pour past the curvature of the glass as the long body keeps the whiskey away from your nose. If you pour too high, you'll get more ethanol fumes from the alcohol than the rich enticing aromas whiskey is known for,” Almonte adds.

Capacity: 6 ounces | Material: Glass | Number of glasses: 2

Best Tumbler

Rona handy tumbler glass.

If you’ve just begun your glassware collection, take Almonte’s advice. He says, “Out of all the glasses, this should be a priority as it acts as a jack of all trades.” These glasses are simply designed and highly functional for all kinds of purposes, whether you're making craft cocktails at home or looking for a reliable collection of all-purpose cups.

Their simplicity makes them ideal for dinner and cocktail parties where other decorations are going to be front and center — think holiday feasts with beautiful wintery centerpieces and elegant holiday serveware . You can’t go wrong with these affordable, well-made tumblers. “You can use it for everything,” Almonte says.

Best Moscow Mule Mug

Advanced mixology moscow mule copper mugs.

This is a great starter set of four Moscow Mule mugs and accessories if you’re a cocktail fan. With the cups, straws, a shot glass for measuring, coasters, and a copper-cleaning brush, this set has everything you need to throw that Moscow mule party about which you’ve been dreaming. They’re sturdy and stylish with their dappled design. Copper tarnishes, so you’ll want to hand wash and dry these cups after use, and clean them frequently to keep the copper shining.

“The copper helps conduct the cold and keep the Mule extremely cold and that in turn helps mellow out that pungency of the ginger,” Almonte says. “You can't go wrong with what advanced mixology has done with their design, a classic through and through.”

Capacity: 19 ounces | Material: Copper | Number of glasses: 4

Best Hurricane Glass

Viski angled crystal hurricane glasses.

This hurricane glass is a must-have for every tropical cocktail lover. Because tropical cocktails include a ton of ingredients (just take a look at the namesake hurricane or zombie cocktails), hurricane glasses have a large liquid capacity. They have plenty of room for multiple spirits, juices, and syrups. Their slim design and flared-lip style give the shape a desirable edge, and they’re tall enough to add a lengthy straw from which to sip — always a plus when you’re sipping a delicious, fruity cocktail.

“I like how Viski designed the top lip here, giving you more room to go all out on garnish as most tropical drinks are known for,” Almonte says. Classic garnishes for tropical cocktails are typically over-the-top with pineapple fronds, orange wheels, edible flowers, and paper umbrellas.

Capacity: 14 ounces | Material: Glass | Number of glasses: 2

Best Julep Cup

Barfly julep cup.

Simply put, this Julep cup is fun. It’s a completely different shape and material than most other glassware, and it’s highly unbreakable because of its stainless steel construction. “Barfly makes some of the best bar tools known today,” Almonte says. The ribbon-style design at the top and bottom of the cup, as well as the subtly tiered base, are nice touches, giving this Julep cup an overall chic look.

“In a world where most cocktails are typically presented in glassware, this cup adds a unique touch to the drink's presentation,” says Jon Bamonte, head bartender at the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia's Vernick Fish . “I believe that cocktails with a larger volume shine when served in this cup, especially when paired with crushed ice and a fresh garnish as a julep should be served.”

Capacity: 12 ounces | Material: Stainless steel | Number of glasses: Sold individually

Best Punch Cup

Falcon enamelware tumbler.

Who can resist a party punch ? And there’s no better way to serve punch than in large volumes. Forget the old-school plastic cups and reach for these enamelware tumblers from Falcon Enamelware instead. When ready to enjoy, fill the tumblers about halfway, then add ice cubes — it makes serving 10 guests at once fashionable and uncomplicated. The enamelware is smooth to the touch, highly durable, and keeps drinks cold.

We recommend purchasing the matching jug , too. This set nicely balances sophistication and playfulness, as it’s well-made, sleek, and comes in an impressive rainbow of 16 vibrant colors. “I find these to be a playful and quirky choice for presenting punch, with the jug making it ideal for a charming table-side cocktail pour,” Bamonte says. (It's definitely hard to resist colorful glassware of any kind!)

Capacity: 10.5 ounces | Material: Enamelware | Number of glasses: Tumblers sold individually

Best Shot Glass

Joyjolt city shot glasses.

These are the kind of shot glasses that can take a hard setting down after a robust shot of your favorite spirit—they’re strong with a heavily weighted bottom and thick walls. The design here is simple and classic. These shot glasses are dishwasher safe and are sure to jumpstart your fete.

“What would a party be without shots?” Almonte asks. “The 2-ounce square-base design of this one gives you just enough room to leave a lime on edge for those doing tequila shots. Or, even better [is] a mixed shot like a green tea shot or lemon drop. This 2-ounce shot glass has all the room you need to get the party started.”

Capacity : 2 ounces | Material: Glass | Number of glasses: 6

We chose our favorite cocktail glasses based on simplicity and versatility. The Spiegelau Rocks Glass can easily house any drink neat or mixed, while looking sleek and sophisticated. For similar reasons, we love the Riedel High Ball Glass . Ever-symbolic of a good time to be had, it features a functional measuring mark for casual mixing, and its high walls are a party classic.

Don’t overthink the material. Most glassware is either glass or crystal and both are suitable. Crystal tends to have more decorative elements and etching, and looks clearer than glass — but the two are equally well made and comparably hold cocktails with ease. There are a couple of very specific glasses on this list made with stainless steel (julep cup) and copper (Moscow mule cup), but otherwise, there’s not a ton of material variation in the glassware world.

Versatility

For those with smaller kitchen cupboards or less kitchen space overall, versatility matters because you aren’t going to want to purchase sets of multiple glasses. In that case, opt for a more versatile glass like the rocks glass. If space permits, you can get more granular with drink-specific glassware.

Some of the best cocktail glasses are made from delicate crystal or rust-prone copper; two materials that should be handled carefully, hand-washed, and gently towel-dried. Most glass, plastic, and stainless steel cocktail glasses can usually be placed in the dishwasher. Our advice is to err on the side of caution. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions to properly clean and care for your new cocktail glasses.

To choose the best cocktail glasses, we interviewed several professional mixologists from around the country. Those experts shared with us their insights on glassware they've used throughout their bartending careers, both behind the bar and in their home kitchens. We also sought the advice of Food & Wine editors who have performed long-term testing on their favorite cocktail glassware at home. With both sets of opinions in mind, in addition to our extensive testing records, we narrowed this list down to the best of the best selections.

Frequently Asked Questions

“Hands down, the rocks glass. Any cocktail looks great in it, and it is easy to garnish,” says Thapa. Moore also agrees: “The rocks glass is the most versatile. It is a ubiquitous vessel.”

It's so easy to use the wrong glass; it's one of the most common cocktail mistakes. “I think so, yes. Especially for drinks like martinis and Manhattans,” says Thapa. “It is important for presentation, too.”

“We do not freeze any glasses at Miller & Lux. I know that at other bars they freeze rocks glasses for Sazeracs,” Thapa says. Moore agrees, “Chilled is as far as you should take a glass.”

Rimming a cocktail glass not only adds a beautiful flair to your beverage, it's also an opportunity for extra flavor, and it couldn't be easier to do.

Always prepare the rim before adding the cocktail to your glass. To a walled dish like a plate or bowl, pour in your preferred rimming ingredient, whether that be Tajin, finishing sugar, or a unique cocktail salt , Run a wedge of citrus fruit along the rim of the cocktail glass. Immediately turn the glass upside down and dip it in the rimming ingredient, turning carefully to ensure full coverage.

• Years of tasting and writing about food, wine, and spirits guide Melissa Vogt's research. As a tourist, Vogt seeks out local bars, and she's well acquainted with where to find good libations in her hometown of Santa Rosa, CA. Read more of her writing on her website and in Napa Valley Life, and Wine Country This Month.
• As part of her research, Melissa connected with several expert mixologists to get their top glassware picks: Christian Almonte of Republic Latin Fusion in New York, Jon Bamonte of the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia's Vernick Fish, and Bob Moore and Shiva Thapa — both of Miller & Lux in San Francisco.

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Notable alumni

Our Alumni go on to make contributions in all areas of the wine and spirits industry. With their exceptional talent, our graduates help to shape the future of the drinks industry around the world. Here we highlight some of the outstanding individuals who have graduated with the WSET Diploma. 

If you would like to suggest an addition to this page please contact [email protected]

Jancis Robinson OBE, MW

Described by Decanter magazine as 'the most respected wine critic and journalist in the world', Jancis writes daily for JancisRobinson.com (voted first-ever Wine Website of the Year in the Louis Roederer International Wine Writers Awards 2010), weekly for The Financial Times, and bi-monthly for a column that is syndicated around the world. She is also editor of The Oxford Companion to Wine, co-author with Hugh Johnson of The World Atlas of Wine and co-author of Wine Grapes - A complete guide to 1,368 vine varieties, including their origins and flavours, each of these books recognised as a standard reference worldwide.

She loves and lives for wine in all its glorious diversity, generally favouring balance and subtlety over sheer mass. 

Read our Q&A with Jancis Robinson OBE, MW

Gerard Basset OBE, MW, MS, MBA

Born in France, Gerard moved to England in the mid-1980s where he embarked on a successful career as a sommelier winning amongst others: Best International Sommelier for French Wines 1992, Best Sommelier of Europe 1996, Best Sommelier in The World 2010.

In addition he was awarded: The Marques de Cacares Award in 1993, The Dom Perignon Cup in 1996, The International Wine Challenge Personality of the Year in 2010. The Harpers Wine and Spirits Magazine Personality of the Year in 2011, Imbibe Industry Legend in 2011, Decanter Man of the Year in 2013, Harpers Wine and Spirits Magazine Best Ambassador/Communicator for French Wines 2013 and 2014 and The Wine & Spirit Ambassador Catey in 2014.

Jeannie Cho Lee MW

Jeannie Cho Lee is the first Asian Master of Wine and an award-winning author, television host, editor, wine critic, judge and educator.

Jeannie is currently a professor at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) where she helped to launch the Master of Science (MSc) in International Wine Management   program offered by the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM). She is also a Visiting Professor at the Chinese Culinary Institute and the International Culinary Institute. Jeannie co-hosts a weekly wine program  In Vino Veritas , now in its second season on TVB Pearl, Hong Kong’s leading English-language TV broadcaster. She has been a Wine Consultant for Singapore Airlines since 2009 and is the former Publisher and CEO of Le Pan, a wine lifestyle publication she launched in 2015.

Serena Sutcliffe MW

Serena passed the Master of Wine examination in 1976, at her first attempt, and has been a member of the Education Committee, the Examination Board, and was Chairman of the Institute of Masters of Wine. A renowned taster, writer and lecturer, she is the Honorary Chairman of Sotheby’s Wine, who are celebrated for selling great collections of perfect provenance in their London, New York and Hong Kong auctions. 

Yang Lu is widely regarded as the most important and influential sommelier in Greater China, as well one of the most respected wine personalities of the industry. He is currently the Corporate/Group Wine Director for Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, overseeing the wine program and sommelier team for the entire group. 

Yang is regarded as one of the finest wine educators in China, regularly teaching WSET and seminars for various wine regions. He is a columnist for DecanterChina.com, and contributes to several professional and lifestyle magazines. He also translated How to Taste by Jancis Robinson and co-translated World Atlas of Wine into Chinese.

Lisa Perotti-Brown MW

Lisa's wine career began by happenstance when, living as a struggling playwright in London after college, she was offered a job as the manager of a wine bar and then promptly enrolled at WSET. She progressed through wine sales and marketing roles in the UK wine trade throughout the ‘90s and early 00's before moving to Tokyo in 2002, where she worked as a wine buyer for one of Japan's top fine wine importers and a wine educator at Tokyo's Academie du Vin. In 2008 Lisa moved to Singapore and began writing a column for Robert Parker’s website, eRobertParker.com. Later that year she achieved her Master of Wine qualification and the Madame Bollinger Medal for excellence in wine tasting. In 2013 she became the Editor in Chief for Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate and eRobertParker.com and remains the publication’s critic for the wines of Australia and New Zealand. In 2015 Lisa’s first book, Taste Like a Wine Critic: A Guide to Understanding Wine Quality, was published. 

Kenichi Ohashi MW

Kenichi (Ken) Ohashi is a leading wine and sake industry professional based in Tokyo, Japan. In 1992, he started his career working for the family sake retail business – Yamajin co. ltd. He is now President of this firm, that has diversified greatly over the last 20 years. In addition to his commercial and educational responsibilities with Yamajin, he runs his own consultancy firm – Red Bridge co ltd. His activities in this business include, but are not limited to – lecturing, buying, judging, writing, selling and strategising for various Japanese and International liquor businesses. 

The pursuit and exchange of knowledge is at the heart of everything Ken does in his chosen profession.

Read our Q&A with Kenichi Ohashi MW

Sonal Holland MW

An accomplished wine educator, wine consultant to hotels, wine writer, wine judge and a Wine TV broadcaster, Sonal has numerous wine-related pursuits.  She is currently Wine Director – Wine & Beverages at ITC Hotels, India’s second largest chain of luxury hotels with close to 97 hotels across various cities in India. Her main focus is to elevate the Hotel Group’s wine cellar offerings through world-class wine selections and to curate iconic and exclusive wine events through collaborations with top wine houses.

Sonal has been featured among the Top Women in Wine in India by the Indian Wine Academy, and has also been listed among the Top 50 Most Powerful Women in Indian Luxury by BlackBook in 2015.

Read our Q&A with Sonal Holland MW

Michael Hill Smith MW

Michael Hill Smith is an international wine judge, producer, consultant and writer who completed the WSET Diploma in 1985. In 1988, he became the first Australian MW and won the Madame Bollinger Tasting Medal. In 2008, he was awarded an Order of Australia for his contribution to the Australian Wine Industry.

He is Co-Managing Director of Adelaide Hills pioneers Shaw + Smith and Tolpuddle Vineyard in Tasmania and is a wine consultant for Singapore Airlines, alongside Oz Clark and Jeannie Cho Lee. He has featured in Decanter’s International Power List three times, is Vice Chair of Decanter Asia Wine Awards and Co-Chair of Decanter World Wine Awards.

Read our Q&A with Michael Hill Smith MW

Angus Barnes DipWSET

Angus has over 25 years' experience in the wine industry across a number of areas in Sales, Marketing and Business Development. For the last 15 years, he has worked for Pernod Ricard Winemakers and currently is the Global Brand Heritage Director, responsible for both the Brand Sites & Visitations as well a team of Wine Ambassadors based throughout the world. 

Angus is currently a Vice President of the NSW Wine Industry Association, in charge of Government relations and licensing and is also the Chairman of the Wine Communicators of Australia, an organisation of over 500 members dedicated to providing information and networks for professionals working in wine.

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