How I Passed My WSET Diploma D6: Independent Research Assignment with MERIT

A Comprehensive Exploration of Bordeaux's Journey to 100% Sustainability by 2030

Hello Wineologists! 

I've been talking about this post for some time! Let's explore the details of this section of the WSET Diploma and how I earned high honors!

What is D6?

The D6 course involves writing a research paper of approximately 3,000 words, with a margin of 300 words more or less. WSET Global offers candidates a choice between two assignments, which are announced annually on August 1st. Candidates must select one of these assignments, with one due at the end of January the following year and the other due at the end of July the following year. For my research paper, I decided to focus on achieving 100% Sustainability in Bordeaux by 2030, examining aspects such as climate change, viticulture and vinification practices, and corporate social responsibility. 

This research paper was compulsory and divided into three parts, assessed using a weighted grading system and valued at 100 points. Fifteen percent of the grade depended on the candidate's ability to adhere to instructions, the structure of the thesis, and presentation elements such as spelling, grammar, personal commentary, bibliography, and the precise and consistent application of research paper formats (APA, MLA, etc.).

My Assignment

Achieving 100% Sustainability in Bordeaux by 2030

1) Outline the certification options available to wineries seeking an environmental approach. 15%

2) Commenting on both environmental and commercial benefits, explain how wineries have already adopted their methods to reach the 2030 target. Illustrate using examples.  40%

3) In the long run, how do you see the Bordeaux region and its wines continuing to change? 30%

Even though the research paper's expectations were clearly defined, the questions were quite open-ended. I realized I would need to conduct extensive research to answer each question thoroughly. Therefore, in early March 2023, giving myself four months to complete the assignment, I sat down at my computer, opened Google, and typed “Environmental certifications for producers in Bordeaux.” The search results were a treasure trove of information about sustainability in France, led by the renowned Wendy Narby from Insider Tasting, whose work and influence I mention in my latest blog post. Wendy quickly became the most significant contributor to my thesis and a key figure in my bibliography. She clarified the hierarchy of environmental certifications, explaining each one in simple terms. Wendy helped me develop a language to help consumers understand biodynamics and the distinctions that should be made with other forms of environmentally friendly viticulture. With every article I read, I delved deeper into research to comprehend the origins and future direction of the sustainability focus. And the examples of early adopters of sustainable viticulture in Bordeaux? There were many, with numerous small chateaux conducting their own experiments, each gathering data to share with their neighbors and producers worldwide. 

When preparing my thesis presentation, I relied heavily on online resources to maintain a consistent and well-executed research paper style. Seriously! It's surprising how the quiet buzz of adulthood can dull your senses to skills that were so easily utilized during your academic years. 

In short, I finished my thesis by the 4th of July weekend. While I was glad to submit it, it was by far my favorite part of the WSET Diploma. This stage of the certification allows you to explore your thoughts, address your own questions, and delve into your curiosities within the framework of the assignment. 

My Best Advice for Success!!

1) Begin with the basic questions that are asked of you! Research those first.

2) After you have a handle on how to answer the questions, get curious! Answer your own questions!

3) Start writing. Let it be clunky, let it be a mess, but get your thoughts on paper. It will help inform further research and clarify your answers.

4) Edit. Edit, edit, edit. Read it out loud. Did you objectively answer the questions? Does the answer sound confused or missing information? Research, write, edit. Repeat. I know this is tedious and repetitive, but do your best to think like the MW grading your paper.

5) Write your introduction! By now, you should be able to share the story of your thesis in a few bullet points with on opening sentence that sets the tone for the paper. This was my second to last step in the writing process

6) Write your conclusion. These are your final thoughts. Your resting place for all your research and assessments for the future.

7) One more big Edit! Don't lose points here because you missed silly details!

As the wine industry evolves, so do these thesis assignments, which remain a guiding light for the future of the global wine industry. For 2025, the January assignment focused on the Virginia wine industry (yes, like the state!), while the July assignment centers on PIWI grape varieties or fungus-resistant forms of the Vitis species (the wines you see on the shelf are made from Vitis Vinifera grapes). Both topics offer extensive research potential, but if I were writing my thesis this year, I would definitely explore antifungal vinifera hybrids! 

If you're considering your research paper and wondering how to begin or what a thesis paper that received a Merit grade looks like, feel free to use my thesis as a reference!

WSET Diploma D6 Sustainability in Bordeaux.pdf

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Feel free to leave a comment about your own experience with the D6: Independent Research Assignment. 

Don’t forget to follow me on TikTok and Instagram @wineologistsunited. 

Until next time!