WSET Level 2 Award in Sake
Online Course

Course Overview

The WSET Level 2 Award in Sake takes you well beyond the basics. You’ll explore the key production processes in real depth — from the rice and how it is grown, through steamed white rice and the role of kōji, to the approaches to alcoholic fermentation and the post-fermentation choices that shape each final style. You’ll then study how sake is categorised, graded and labelled, including the two categories of sake, the eight grades of premium sake, and the principal speciality styles (nigori-zake, nama-zake, sparkling sake and koshu), along with the key Japanese labelling terms. You’ll learn to taste and describe sake using the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting®, understand how to store, serve and pair it with food, and earn an internationally recognised certification — all from home.

There are six modules:

Module 1: Introducing Sake — the common and optional ingredients used to make sake, and how to taste and evaluate quality using the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting® and Sake-Lexicon

Module 2: How is Sake Made? — the rice used for sake and how it is grown, steamed white rice, the role of kōji, and the approaches to alcoholic fermentation and their impact on style

Module 3: After Alcoholic Fermentation — the post-fermentation options and their impact on style, how and why sake is stored at the brewery, and why sake is diluted before packaging

Module 4: Sake Labels and Style — the two categories of sake, the eight grades of premium sake, the principal speciality styles, key Japanese labelling terms, and the production choices behind delicate ginjō and rich junmai styles

Module 5: Serving, Storing and Pairing Sake — ideal storage conditions, common faults, correct serving procedures and temperatures, and the key considerations when pairing food and sake

Module 6: Revision and resources — including a mock feedback exam

Price & Payments

The WSET Level 2 in Sake online course costs US$599, all-inclusive. The cost includes access to the WSET online course, your WSET study pack and textbook (Sake: Looking Behind the Label), 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 tasting a selection will help you get far more out of it. After registration, we provide you with a list of recommended sake styles that are widely 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.