Chapter 20: Exam Preparation and Strategy:

Question 1

What are the three key areas tested in the WSET Level 2 exam?

Answer 1

Tasting and evaluating wine, knowledge of grape varieties and regions, and understanding wine styles and production.

Question 2

What is the format of the WSET Level 2 exam?

Answer 2

50 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 60 minutes.

Question 3

What is the passing mark for the WSET Level 2 exam?

Answer 3

55% or 28 out of 50 correct answers.

Question 4

What is the best way to revise for the tasting component?

Answer 4

Practice using the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT) with a variety of wines.

Question 5

Why is it important to study the characteristics of key grape varieties?

Answer 5

To identify their typical styles, regions, and flavor profiles.

Question 6

What study tools can help with WSET exam preparation?

Answer 6

Flashcards, mock exams, and summary notes.

Question 7

How can grouping wines by region and grape variety improve study efficiency?

Answer 7

It helps you understand relationships between regions, climates, and grape characteristics.

Question 8

What is a good strategy for memorizing key wine regions?

Answer 8

Create maps or diagrams that connect regions with their grape varieties and wine styles.

Question 9

Why is it useful to review past exam questions?

Answer 9

To become familiar with the types of questions asked and identify areas of weakness.

Question 10

How should you approach multiple-choice questions in the exam?

Answer 10

1. Read the question carefully. 2. Eliminate obviously incorrect answers. 3. Choose the most accurate option based on your knowledge.

Question 11

What should you do if you are unsure about a question?

Answer 11

Make an educated guess; there are no penalties for incorrect answers.

Question 12

How can you manage your time during the exam?

Answer 12

Spend about 1 minute per question and move on if you’re stuck—come back to difficult questions later.

Question 13

Why is it important to review your answers if time permits?

Answer 13

To catch and correct mistakes or overlooked details.

Question 14

What should you know about grape varieties?

Answer 14

Their main characteristics, regions, and typical wine styles.

Question 15

What should you focus on for regional wines?

Answer 15

Key regions, climates, grape varieties, and distinctive wine styles.

Question 16

What aspects of sparkling and fortified wines are important to review?

Answer 16

Production methods, grape varieties, and styles of key wines like Champagne, Sherry, and Port.

Question 17

Why is understanding food and wine pairing essential?

Answer 17

It connects wine characteristics (e.g., acidity, tannins) to complementary or contrasting foods.

Question 18

What are the key elements of the WSET tasting method?

Answer 18

Appearance, Nose, Palate, and Conclusions (quality assessment).

Question 19

What wines should you practice tasting before the exam?

Answer 19

Examples of classic wines from major regions, such as Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Riesling.

Question 20

How can you improve your ability to assess wine quality?

Answer 20

Practice identifying balance, intensity, complexity, and finish in wines.

Question 21

Why is it important to review the study guide provided by WSET?

Answer 21

It covers the essential topics and aligns with the exam structure.

Question 22

How can practice exams help with preparation?

Answer 22

They simulate the exam environment, improve time management, and identify knowledge gaps.

Question 23

What should you do the day before the exam?

Answer 23

Review key concepts, rest well, and avoid cramming.