WSET Level 1 Award in Sake
Online Course

This is the ideal place to begin your sake journey.

This is an introductory online course suited to those who want to learn about the fascinating world of sake. It is suited for those with little or no background in sake but have always wanted to find out more about the time-honored traditions and styles that are an integral part of Japanese culture. There are no pre-requisites and you can take this course from anywhere.

Courses start approximately every two months. You can study at your own pace, and you have four weeks from the start date to complete the program. This is an outstanding online course, considered to be the gold standard in sake education. You will have access to an expert instructor online to answer all your questions. We have regular online exam dates to fit your schedule regardless of where you live.

Bonus offer: when you register for a WSET online course, you receive a FREE Fine Vintage online course (value of $99-299 depending on the course) plus FREE access to our extensive video library, and a list of our Fine Vintage proprietary exam practice questions. It’s an unbeatable deal – two online courses for the price of one.

Course Overview

During the course you will be introduced to the fascinating and dynamic world of sake. You will learn about the key ingredients of rice, yeast, water, and koji as well as the unique fermentation process used to craft sake. You will become familiar with the different styles and grades of sake as well as their different flavor profiles. Learn the art of pairing sake with food, how to properly store and serve sake, and how to taste and describe it like a pro. Gain an internationally recognized certification, all from the comfort of your own home.

There are six modules:

Module 1: Key ingredients and steps involved in producing sake.

Module 2: Key categories & styles of sake and how to taste sake.

Module 3: Deeper look into each step of sake production and how they impact the resulting style of sake.

Module 4: Key Japanese labeling terms and specialty types of sake.

Module 5: Sake storage, service, and food pairing principals.

Module 6: Revision and mock feedback exam

Price & Payments

The WSET Level 1 online sake course costs US$299, all-inclusive. The cost includes access to the WSET online course, your workbook, a dedicated expert instructor, your exam fees, and certificate.

You will need to purchase your own sake samples, if you desire. It is not a requirement to buy any sake to complete this course, but it is beneficial to taste a selection of sake styles to get the most out of it. After registration, we provide you with a list of recommended sake styles that are generally available.

Full payment is charged at the time of registration. Your payment is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Don’t forget: when you register for a WSET online course, you receive a FREE Fine Vintage online course (value of $99-299 depending on the course) plus FREE access to our extensive video library, and a list of our Fine Vintage proprietary exam practice questions.

 

Online Program

You can choose from multiple start dates, with courses commencing approximately every two months. You will have four weeks from the course start date to complete the six modules. You can do these six modules at your own pace, be it all in one day or spread over four weeks. The course material should take about six hours in total to complete, plus revision time. You will have access to a certified sake educator through the online portal, and can ask questions throughout the course.

Examination

Your WSET Level 1 exam is completed fully online using remote invigilation. Fine Vintage offers the exam every week on Tuesdays at 5pm Greenwich Mean Time (UK time) and Sundays at 8pm Greenwich Mean Time (UK time). You can pick your exam date and time online immediately after you register for the course or you can select your exam date anytime in the next 11 months. You have one year from your course start date to schedule and take your exam.

The exam consists of 30 multiple choice questions. A grade of 70% or higher is required to pass. You will receive your results within 4 weeks by email, and if successful your WSET certificate will be mailed to you within 8 weeks anywhere around the world. Fine Vintage has a 98% pass rate at the WSET Level 1.

We require 10 business days notice to register you for the WSET Level 1 exam. There is a US$100 fee to change your exam date after it is scheduled or to resit the exam, if required.

You should have a reasonable degree of technical ability to use the examination software. You will receive detailed set-up instructions after you register.

The WSET Level 1 Award in Sake is a formal qualification in wine with international recognition. Many students frame their WSET certificates.

 

Online Course Format

Approximately 6 hours required


The perfect online course to start your sake education


98% Pass Rate!


Get your WSET certification online

Upcoming course dates:

Important: You must register for the WSET Online Courses at least 6 business days before the course begins.

Who is this course for?
WSET Level 1 courses are perfect for the beginner and those with a basic knowledge. Receive a FREE SET of TASTING GLASSES with your Level 1 tuition!
No Prerequisites
WSET Certification
See full course description

This course is not currently available. Please contact us for information.

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TERMS: Full payment is charged at the time of registration. Your payment is non-refundable and non-transferable. This course is administered out of London, UK and does not fall under PTIB authority.

Tell me more

Who takes this course?

Everyone! The vast majority are those who have always wanted to learn more about Japan’s time-honored traditional beverage.

We do welcome many people from the hospitality, retail, and distribution industries as well as general enthusiasts. This is an introductory course and we presume no prior knowledge. You will have access to certified instructors throughout the online program.

Course Preparation

Study Guide

You will be emailed the access codes to the online course by the WSET within two business days of the start of the course. The Workbook is available through the online portal beginning on the course start date. Fine Vintage will also email you a list of 100 practice exam questions to help you thoroughly prepare. And don’t stress about the exam as we have a 98% pass rate.

Testimonials

BYANCA GODWIN

When I decided to begin my wine education journey Fine Vintage Ltd. was my first choice. James Cluer MW and his team provided a first class experience which propelled my love and curiosity for wine into a lifetime quest to further my knowledge. I would highly recommend the WSET Level 1 course with Fine Vintage to any student who desires to learn from outstanding teachers who inspire you with their wealth of knowledge while exposing you to a benchmark selection of quality wines.


BYANCA GODWIN – LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
ELIZABETH TATARA

I’ve completed WSET 1 & 2 through Fine Vintage’s weekend courses, and I cannot recommend them enough. Particularly for those who work full time such as myself, the weekend courses are a great way to pursue an education in wine while juggling a busy schedule. The programs are well structured and paced, and the instructors are enthusiastic and personable – creating an enjoyable and manageable learning environment.


ELIZABETH TATARA – NEW YROK CITY
JORDAN SU

Having taken both WSET 1 and WSET 2 Fine Vintage definitely executes the classes at an exceptional level. The instructors were outstanding and taught the class with great passion providing high quality wine with many different varieties to taste! Not only did I learn much more about wine, but also after taking WSET level 2 from Fine Vintage it increased my interest and passion for wine exponentially. I highly recommend taking courses from Fine Vintage!


JORDAN SU – VANCOUVER
MEL EITEL

Fine Vintage WSET 1 training was more than I expected. The instructor was incredibly knowledgeable and brought the education to life through sampling many different wines from a variety of regions while taking us on a tour of the basic fundamentals of wine. Whether you are a novice or starting your career in wine, I would highly recommend Fine Vintage, Ltd.


MEL EITEL – NEW YORK CITY
YULE SCHMIDT

I’ve taken wine courses with various providers over the years and can unequivocally say that Fine Vintage stands in a league of its own. The quality of wine alone sets the company apart but its real advantage is its instructors. Every FV instructor I’ve had has brought as much enthusiasm to the classroom as they’ve brought experience, drawing on both to bring the world of wine to life. You can’t get that kind of education from a textbook.


YULE SCHMIDT – TORONTO

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