7. Meet Your WSET Spirits Educator Matt Ray!

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Wine Educate Podcast: Episode 7 - Meet Your WSET Spirits Educator Matt Ray!

Welcome back to the Wine Educate Podcast! This week marks an exciting milestone as we host our very first interview. Meet Matt Ray, WSET Spirits Educator and spirits professional, as he shares his unique career journey and passion for spirits education. From his early days as a bartender to his current role at the Sazerac House, Matt takes us through his professional evolution and why he feels WSET certification is the gold standard for spirits education.

Links and Resources:

• Free Level 1 Spirits Flashcards: Perfect for reviewing key concepts and preparing for exams. Download here.

Upcoming WSET Classes:

• Level 1 Spirits: Sunday, January 19th at the Sazerac House, New Orleans. Don’t wait—spaces fill quickly, and the next class won’t be until summer.

• Level 2 Spirits: Next date pending. Join our weekly newsletter to learn when new dates are posted.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Matt’s Career Journey: Learn how Matt transitioned from bartending to teaching, and now representing one of the largest spirits companies in the world.

• Introduction to Spirits Certifications: Discover the range of spirits certifications available, including the gold-standard WSET offerings and alternatives such as Certified Spirits Specialist (CSS) and Bourbon certifications from Moonshine University.

• Why Choose WSET for Spirits Education? Matt discusses why WSET certifications are the most rigorous and respected in the industry.

• What to Expect in WSET Level 1 & Level 2 Spirits Classes: Matt breaks down the foundational knowledge taught in Level 1 and how Level 2 delves deeper into production, tasting, and analysis.

• Learning in a Spirits Class: What’s it really like to attend a WSET spirits class? Matt reassures listeners about tasting responsibly while emphasizing the joy of learning through hands-on experiences.

• Why Enthusiasts Should Start with Level 1: Whether you're a professional or a spirits enthusiast, starting with Level 1 helps build confidence and foundational knowledge.

• Future WSET Spirits Plans: Hear about Matt’s journey toward becoming a certified Level 3 Spirits Educator and what that means for Wine Educate’s future offerings.

Links and Resources:

• Free Level 1 Spirits Flashcards: Perfect for reviewing key concepts and preparing for exams. Download here.

• Explore WSET Levels 1 & 2 Classes: View upcoming class dates.

Upcoming WSET Classes:

• Level 1 Spirits: Sunday, January 19th at the Sazerac House, New Orleans. Don’t wait—spaces fill quickly, and the next class won’t be until summer.

• Level 2 Spirits: Dates to be announced. Visit the Wine Educate website for updates on upcoming classes.

Stay in Touch with Joanne & Wine Educate:

• Book a Discovery Call: Not sure which class is right for you? Schedule a 15-minute call with Joanne to discuss your goals. Schedule here.

• Sign Up: Join our weekly newsletter—the BEST way to stay connected, learn about new classes, and hear about wine trips.

• Subscribe to the Podcast: Never miss an episode of wine education and inspiration.

• Email: Have specific questions? Reach out directly to Joanne at [e-mail].

Share Your Feedback:

Loved this episode? Have a question for Matt or an idea for a future topic? Send us a message or leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. We’d love to hear from you!