About the course

A beginner level introduction to Sake for those starting a career in the industry or pursuing an interest in Sake. You’ll explore the main styles and types of sake through sight, smell and taste to develop an understanding of the key factors affecting flavours and aromas. Upon successful completion you will receive a WSET certificate and lapel pin.

Price includes the WSET Level 1 study guide (online), tuition, remote invigilation exam, and the certificate and lapel pin (if you pass the examination).

Course information

This hands-on course offers the ideal introduction to sake for interested enthusiasts and those working with sake. In a short space of time, you’ll find yourself fascinated by this diverse Japanese beverage and eager to explore more.

What will I learn?

The course will cover:

  • The basic principles of sake production
  • The main types and styles of sake
  • Factors affecting the flavour of sake
  • Tutored tastings of 8 sakes
  • How to serve sake
  • How to describe sake using the WSET Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting Sake® (SAT)

By the end of the course you’ll know the principal categories of sake available, what defines them and what characteristics to expect from them. You’ll have learned how to taste and describe sake using a globally recognised approach and will know how to serve and store sake optimally. You’ll also be familiar with some important Japanese sake labelling terms.

Learn about more about what you will cover during the course here: WSET Level 1 in Sake Specification (2022).

Assessment

Assessment is by a closed-book exam of 30 multiple-choice questions to be completed within 45 minutes. A total mark of 70% is required to achieve a pass. All students who pass will be issued with a certificate and will receive a lapel pin.

Students enrolled in the WSET Level 1 Sake will take their exams online via Remote Invigilation. The candidates will take the exam on a computer in a secure environment from their home where they are monitored via webcam, screen sharing technology and a secondary recording device (cell phone). Students will still need to register for their exams, which will be taken at a pre-determined date and time, through Florida Wine Academy. You can register by sending an email to courses@floridawineacademy.com.

Online course 

A four-week online course that works around your schedule. You’ll learn through WSET’s Online Classroom, which allows you to study alongside other sake lovers under the guidance of a dedicated educator.

A minimum of three hours study per week is recommended to successfully complete the course and regular participation is essential. Tasting is also an important part of this course, and you will need to taste a range of sakes (not provided as part of the cost, but you will be given guidance on the styles to taste).

What happens after I register for an online course?

After receiving your order, Florida Wine Academy will register you with WSET for the online course dates selected. You will receive an email with further information regarding the online course once you have been successfully registered. Please note that this can take up to two business days.