WSET Approved Programme Provider · Richmond, Melbourne

WSET Level 2 Award in Sake

Go deeper into the world of sake. Taught by Melissa Mills, across three intensive days of tasting and theory.

✓  3 intensive days✓  20 hours of teaching✓  No Level 1 required✓  Globally recognised
WSET Level 2 Award in Sake

WSET Qualification

WSET Level 2 Award in Sake

The WSET Level 2 Award in Sake is a serious deep dive into the world of sake production, styles and quality assessment. Taught by Melissa Mills across multiple days, you'll explore everything from rice polishing and fermentation through to classification, labelling and service. Sake samples are tasted throughout every session.

No Level 1 required. The course is open to anyone with a genuine interest in sake, from industry professionals looking to formalise their knowledge to enthusiasts who want to go beyond the basics.

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Course details

About this course

The WSET Level 2 Award in Sake is a comprehensive exploration of the world of sake — from rice and water to fermentation, classification and tasting. Taught by Melissa Mills of Sake Connect, one of Australia's leading sake specialists, this course goes well beyond the basics and equips you with a thorough understanding of sake styles, quality factors and how to evaluate what's in your glass.

No prior knowledge is required. The Level 2 is suitable for complete beginners as well as those who have completed the Level 1 and want to go further.

What's included

Face to face

Live teaching at our Richmond location across multiple sessions

Sake samples tasted throughout the program

WSET Level 2 Sake textbook and study workbook

Course registration and exam fees

What you'll cover

The Level 2 Sake covers the full range of sake knowledge across production, classification, tasting and quality assessment. Topics include:

Sake ingredients: rice, water, koji and yeast

The production process from milling to pasteurisation

Sake classification and labelling — junmai, ginjo, daiginjo and more

How to taste and evaluate sake using the WSET Level 2 SAT

Key sake producing regions of Japan and their characteristics

Specialty sakes — nigori, koshu, sparkling and fortified

Storage, service temperatures and food pairing

Quality factors and how to assess value and style

Do I need to complete Level 1 first?

No. The Level 2 Sake is designed to be accessible to anyone regardless of prior knowledge. The Level 1 is a useful foundation but not a requirement.

Certification and exam

The Level 2 Sake assessment is a closed-book examination. Students who achieve a passing score will receive the WSET Level 2 Award in Sake. Higher scores achieve Merit or Distinction.

Successful candidates receive a WSET certificate and lapel pin, recognised globally across the hospitality and drinks industry.

Exam resit fees

In-person exam resit $195
Non-attendance of exam $100
Exam re-registration $195

Booking and cancellation

Bookings are not secured until full payment is received and the enrolment form is completed and returned. Course bookings close 15 working days prior to the start date.

Cancellations are refundable up to 20 working days before the course start date, less a $75 administration fee and the cost of any study materials supplied. If Melbourne Wine School cancels a course, students will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Entry requirements

All attendees must be at least 18 years of age. No prior WSET qualification is required.

Policies

Zero tolerance

Melbourne Wine School has a zero-tolerance policy for threatening behaviour or acts of aggression and violence — physical or verbal — towards any member of our staff. Any violation will result in removal from the course without refund.

Illness

If you are unwell on the day of your course, a doctor's certificate is required. Without one, standard non-attendance fees apply and full course fees must be paid to re-enrol.