WSET Approved Programme Provider · Richmond, Melbourne

WSET Level 1 Award in Sake

A beginner's introduction to the world of sake. One day, guided tasting, a globally recognised qualification.

✓  1 day✓  Sake samples throughout✓  No prior knowledge needed✓  Globally recognised
WSET Level 1 Award in Sake

WSET Qualification

WSET Level 1 Award in Sake

The WSET Level 1 Award in Sake is the ideal introduction to one of the world's most fascinating drinks. In our Richmond location, you'll learn the fundamentals of sake production, explore the main styles and develop a structured approach to tasting using the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting Sake.

No prior knowledge required. The Level 1 is designed for anyone curious about sake, whether you're just starting out in hospitality, looking to add sake to your professional repertoire, or simply someone who wants to understand what's actually in the glass. It's a genuinely eye-opening introduction to a category that rewards curiosity.  

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Upcoming Level 1 Award In Sake Courses:

Course details

About this course

The WSET Level 1 Award in Sake is the ideal starting point for anyone curious about one of the world's most fascinating drinks. In a single session at our Richmond location, you'll learn the fundamentals of how sake is made, explore the main styles through guided tasting, and develop a structured approach to evaluating sake using the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting.

No prior knowledge required. Whether you work in hospitality, have a personal interest in Japanese culture, or simply want to understand what's in your glass — this is the place to start.

What's included

Face to face

1 day of live teaching at our Richmond location

Sake samples throughout the day

WSET Level 1 Sake study workbook

Course registration and exam fees

What you'll cover

The Level 1 builds a solid foundation in sake from the ground up. Topics include:

How sake is made — rice, water, koji and fermentation

The main styles of sake and how to tell them apart

How to taste and describe sake using the WSET SAT

How to store and serve sake correctly

Food and sake pairing principles

The key regions and producers of Japan

Do I need prior knowledge?

None at all. The Level 1 is designed for complete beginners. All you need is curiosity.

Certification and exam

The WSET Level 1 Sake assessment is a closed-book, multiple choice exam taken at the end of the course. A pass mark of 70% is required. Successful candidates receive a WSET Level 1 Award in Sake certificate and lapel pin.

The qualification is recognised globally in the drinks and hospitality industry.

Entry requirements

All attendees must be at least 18 years of age. No prior knowledge or qualifications 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.