A range of courses in wine knowledge and appreciation is offered at various centres throughout the country, although the withdrawal in 2009 of the Wine Board of Ireland from education, has reduced this number.

Appreciation Courses

Wine appreciation courses generally intended for beginners and those who require an informal and enjoyable introduction to the world of wine. Some providers will go beyond the introductory level and provide detailed knowledge on particular regions or wine styles.

 Wine Appreciation and Certificate courses are currently offered by  the Irish Wine Institute (083-3903452) headed by Jaqueline Stedman, Just Grapes, Clonmel (087-6557596) headed by Paul Williams,  Tindal Wine Merchants (086-7963355) headed by Harriet Tyndal and  Mary Gaynor’s Wine Academy of Ireland (056-7724894).

 Wine Appreciation Courses are also provided by Dublin Wine School which is based at Gibneys in Malahide,  Kevin Eckock’s School of Wine in Leixlip, McCabes Off Licences in Blackrock and Foxrock,  Mitchell’s Dublin stores and  some O’Brien’s off licences.

 WSET Courses

The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) based in London provides a range of certificate courses through locally approved education providers. These courses are designed for those who wish to acquire an internationally recognised qualification in wines and spirits. While ideal for those working in the trade, these courses are also suitable for wine enthusiasts who wish to increase their level of knowledge.

 WSET has approved a number of providers to deliver Wine Appreciation and Certificate courses. They include the Irish Wine Institute (083-3903452) headed by Jaqueline Stedman, Just Grapes, Clonmel (087-6557596) headed by Paul Williams,  Tindal Wine Merchants (086-7963355) headed by Harriet Tyndal and  Mary Gaynor’s Wine Academy of Ireland (056-7724894).

WSET Diploma

The WSET Diploma is designed to give specialist knowledge on wines and spirits. To undertake the Diploma course, all candidates must first pass the WSET Advanced Certificate course. The Diploma Course is currently offered ‘Dermot Nolan Wine Services’ ,  based in Mount Merrion Dublin (086-2240571).

 Other wine course providers who are not included in the above are invited to send details of their courses to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.