What should I expect in the Level 2 Sommelier Exam, especially the blind tasting? #

The Level 2 Sommelier Exam (online version) has both tasting and theory sections. Here’s what you need to know:

• Before you begin:
  • Do not start the exam unless you have the required wines and exam materials (sent to you by email).
  • Confirm your internet connection is strong and stable — there are no retakes if you disconnect.
• Exam order:
  • The exam typically begins with the tasting portion and finishes with the theory portion.
  • You’ll have one hour total to complete everything.
• Tasting portion:
  • Have your wines poured and ready before you begin.
  • You must describe each wine in your own words, in complete sentences. Copying basic descriptors from the varietal cheat sheet will not be enough.
  • Pay close attention to the varietal fingerprint (a concept taught in the course).
  • Your tasting notes must be authentic and precise — generic answers or obvious filler will not pass.
  • Keith Wallace personally grades this section after tasting the same wines.
• Theory portion:
  • Draws from both the reading material and video lectures.
  • Question types include multiple-choice, sorting, and fill-in-the-blank.
  • For fill-in-the-blank questions, spelling matters.
  • Once you move forward, you cannot go back to change previous answers.
• Grading:
  • Exams are hand-graded and can take up to six weeks for results.

Reminder: This format applies only to the online NWS Level 2 exam. If you’re taking the course through a partner wine school or university, the format may differ. Always review the Exam Preparation lesson in your course portal for the most current details.

Examples of Tasting Notes ( #

These examples are for the same wine by two different students. The first one earned a 81% and the second earned a 50% score.

A Passing Tasting Note

• Acid: Medium; Body: High; Tannin: High
• Cabernet Sauvignon, blended primarily with Merlot
• “This Red Bordeaux gives a hint of pencil shavings and bell pepper on the nose, with deep dark fruit and earth/mushroom on the finish.”

Why it’s good: It combines structure, grape identification, and a clear varietal fingerprint (graphite/bell pepper) in complete, original sentences.

A Tasting Note that Failed

• Acid: med
• Body: med-high (more med)
• Tannin: med-high (more medium)
• Main varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Varietal fingerprint: graphite/pencil

Why it’s bad: It lacks complete sentences and original analysis; it reads like a checklist, not a persuasive tasting note.