Welcome to the Virginia Wine & Spirits Academy

Founded in 2017, VAWSA specializes in internationally recognized wine and spirit education for trade professionals and passionate enthusiasts throughout Virginia and neighboring states. We are an Approved Program Provider for the following organizations:

The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) is an awarding body and registered charity devoted to the development and delivery of qualifications and courses in wines and spirits. Established in 1969 for the UK wine trade, WSET has since grown to become the global industry leader whose qualifications are recognized as the gold standard in beverage certification.

As an independent, not-for-profit organisation, WSET’s educational products offer impartial and sound learning on which individuals and businesses can build knowledge and expertise. With courses in over 70 countries and 15 languages, the qualifications are designed for those who are just starting out in their careers, as well as established professionals, and the many enthusiasts who have a passion for wines, spirits, sake, and beer.

The Wine Scholar Guild (WSG) is the only wine education provider to focus solely on the most influential wine regions of Europe, instilling a deep understanding of these wines, winemakers and their culture.

Founded in 2005, WSG offers immersive, region-specific wine education through online, in person and study abroad certification programs. WSG certifications set the industry standard for up-to-date and in-depth information through three distinct levels of study: Essentials, Scholar and Masters.

The Edinburgh Whisky Academy (EWA) is a Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) accredited centre of learning for whisky and gin education. Founded in 2015 by Kirsty McKerrow, EWA was specifically created to fill a vital gap in scotch whisky education. Every course is awarded and certified by the SQA and is written by independent industry experts, providing a true and factual grounding for whisky knowledge. The aim at the Edinburgh Whisky Academy is to drive excellence in whisky education.

Whisky education plays a hugely important role in the on-going success and, naturally, enjoyment of the products. As well as learning about how it is made, EWA candidates receive a huge degree of knowledge on the history and business of whisky, as well as how to enhance their appreciation of the liquid in their glass, being taught how to properly nose it, taste it and navigate the myriad of aromas and flavours in each drop.