WSET is launching a new intermediate sake qualification 

Starting from April, the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) will offer a Level 2 Award in Sake qualification. The new Award will complement the existing Level 3 Award in Sake, launched in 2014, and the Level 1 Award in Sake, launched in 2016. 

The WSET Sake program has already hosted more than 17,000 students globally since its inception 10 years ago.

“Globally, sake continues to be an exciting category,” said Michelle Brampton, CEO at WSET. 

“We have seen demand for our Level 1 Award in Sake grow significantly over the last five years, so we are delighted to be launching the new Level 2 Award in Sake. 

“It is designed to inspire more people around the world to deepen their knowledge of sake, whether they work in the trade or are learning for pleasure.”

The new Award aims to support students that wish to progress their education beyond Level 1, filling the current gap that exists in the program. It will cover topics such as sake production, types of sake, how it should be served, and factors affecting its flavours. 

“The Level 2 Award in Sake is ideal for both drinks trade professionals and enthusiasts who would like to gain an in-depth understanding of the production of sake and its different styles,” said Natsuki Kikuya, Senior Researcher - Sake Research & Curriculum at WSET.

“Over the past decade we have worked with 160 educators around the world to develop our range of sake qualifications and increase growth in our key markets. This new Level 2 sake qualification will enable us to reach even more people.”

The news follows the recent launch of the WSET Awards in Beer program in Australia at the start of this month, reflecting a renewed focus on broadening its portfolio. Drinks Trade recently conducted interviews with three of the women behind the new beer program, which includes both Level 1 and Level 2 Awards.

The three Australian course providers that have been approved for the Level 2 Award in Sake are Deja Vu Sake Company, Melbourne Wine School, and Prince Wine Store. 

More information can be found here.