WSET Global

WSET Alumni insights

WSET Global

Drinks industry jobs and career paths

The global drinks industry supports millions of jobs, from casual bartenders to award-winning winemakers. This is an extremely diverse and dynamic industry, and it’s perfect for anyone seeking a rewarding career in the beverage industry. Drinks industry careers fall into three broad categories: commercial roles, service roles and production roles. Follow the links below to learn more about the...

WSET Global

Winemaker

A winemaker is responsible for turning harvested grapes into finished wines. That may sound pretty straightforward, but winemaking is a highly complex process that requires creativity, adaptability, hard work and scientific rigour. It’s a hands-on role, which is often far less glamorous than you may expect, but it can also be very rewarding.

WSET Global

Toji (Master Sake Brewer)

A Tōji is a master sake brewer. This deeply respected role blends art, science and intuition, while building upon centuries of Japanese tradition.

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Winery worker / cellar hand

This is the perfect entry-level job for anyone that dreams of getting into the wine trade. It’s a physically demanding role, which often involves menial tasks, but you can pick up valuable skills and experience. You’ll often meet inspiring people too, from celebrated winemakers to renowned viticulturists, so it can suit anyone seeking mentorship.

WSET Global

Retail Store Worker

Thousands of passionate wine, beer, spirits and sake enthusiasts work in the drinks retailing industry. This vast sector covers independent wine merchants, craft beer stores, specialist spirits shops, large chains, cellar door retailers and much more. Many supermarkets also hire wine specialists, while online retailing continues to go from strength to strength.

WSET Global

Diversity, equity and inclusion

Diversity, equity and inclusion have always been at the heart of our business. They are central to our mission to provide accessible best-in-class education and qualifications to inspire and empower the world's wine and spirits professionals and enthusiasts.

WSET Global

How to say it - audio

A valuable resource offering pronunciation guidance on key wine terms