Discover a fascinating Japanese beverage that has taken the world by storm.
Course information
This hands-on one-day 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.
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.
The Level 1 Award in Spirits exam consists of 30 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 45 minutes.
To pass you must correctly answer 70% of the questions.
Successful students will receive a WSET certificate.
This qualification is Ofqual regulated.
No prior sake knowledge is required, just enthusiasm! All our classes are delivered in English therefore a good level of English is beneficial.
You must be at least 18 years old to enrol on any of our courses.
There is no need to prepare anything before starting your Level 1 Award in Sake course.
However anyone embarking on a WSET qualification should familiarise themselves with the qualification specification. This document will help you understand what to expect and what you will get out of the course.
Study options
We have three study options available for this course at WSET School London.
- Where: WSET School London
- Duration: 9:00am-5.00pm on one day (includes exam)
- Private study: Not required. There are recapping and revision exercises throughout the day
- Samples: In-class sake samples included
- Includes: Your workbook, 10 sake samples, six hours of tuition, your examination, and exclusive offers via our Student Deals Card
- Who: Those who want to complete the course as quickly as possible
Browse day release courses
- Where: WSET School London
- Duration: 10:30am-2:00pm over two consecutive Saturdays (includes exam)
- Private study: Not required, but this format gives you the flexibility to pre-read or recap topics between classes
- Samples: In-class sake samples included
- Includes: Your workbook, 10 sake samples, six hours of tuition, your examination, and exclusive offers via our Student Deals Card
- Who: A popular option for those wanting to explore the local area or those who are unable to study on weekdays
- Where: Online via WSET’s Online Classroom*
- Duration: Four weeks self-guided study to be completed around your schedule
- Private study: At least three hours a week
- Samples: Sakes not included. We recommend you taste a minimum of seven sake styles and you‘ll get guidance on what styles to taste
- Includes: Access to WSET's Online Classroom for one year, a dedicated online tutor, your examination, and exclusive offers via our Student Deals Card
- Enhanced features: Revision videos, flash cards and exam tips
- Who: Those who need a flexible study option, international students or those far away from our classroom centres
- Technology requirements: We recommend that you use a laptop or desktop device and have a reliable internet connection. To sit your examination online you will also need one additional smart device such as a smartphone or tablet
*More information on how online examinations work will be shared with you once you enrol. If you are a student in Mainland China or the UAE, it’s not possible for you to take the exam online due to technological restrictions.
Browse online coursesCourse dates
| Start date | Study option | Location | Price | Booking deadline | Availability | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday 17 Feb 2025 | Day Release | WSET School London | £250 | Thursday 30 Jan 2025 | 10+ | Book Now | |
| Wednesday 12 Mar 2025 | Day Release | WSET School London | £250 | Monday 24 Feb 2025 | 10+ | Book Now | |
| Monday 14 Apr 2025 | Day Release | WSET School London | £250 | Thursday 27 Mar 2025 | 10+ | Book Now | |
| Thursday 08 May 2025 | Day Release | WSET School London | £250 | Monday 21 Apr 2025 | 10+ | Book Now | |
| Friday 20 Jun 2025 | Day Release | WSET School London | £250 | Wednesday 04 Jun 2025 | 10+ | Book Now | |
| Tuesday 22 Jul 2025 | Day Release | WSET School London | £250 | Friday 04 Jul 2025 | 10+ | Book Now |