WSET Level 3 Award in Sake

What separates good from exceptional in the world of sake? How do tiny production decisions transform character and quality? The WSET Level 3 Award in Sake digs deeper into technique, aroma, and structure, giving you the insight to decode – and defend – expert assessments. 

For individuals seeking to develop their expertise in sake, this qualification will provide you with a detailed understanding of the production methods that affect the style, quality and price of sake. 

Upon completion you will be able to assess sakes accurately and use this information and your understanding of sakes to make authoritative recommendations. Upon successful completion you’ll receive a WSET certificate and will be able to use the associated WSET certified logo. 

 

 

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

The WSET Level 3 Award in Sake equips you with expert-level understanding of sake production, style and quality. Through tasting, theory and practical study, you’ll learn to evaluate sake critically and confidently make informed recommendations. 

What's covered?

Unit 1 

  • The techniques and choices that are used in the production of sake and how they influence style and quality 
  • The principal and specialty categories of sake 
  • The sake industry and the commercial importance of sake in the Japanese and export markets 
  • The principles behind the storage, selection and service of sake 

  

Unit 2 

  • How to taste sake, and evaluate quality, identity and price, using the WSET Level 3 Systematic Approach to Tasting Sake (SAT) 

COURSE DELIVERY

Qualifications are available in-person through our network of course providers. The Level 3 Award in Sake requires: 

  • 16 hours or guided learning with a WSET course provider 
  • 26 hours of private study 
  • A 2 hour10 minute exam consisting of theory and tasting 

WSET course providers offer the course in a variety of formats, for example over consecutive days, weeks, or evenings. It can also be studied through WSET’s Online Classroom, an interactive e-learning platform where you complete activities at your own pace over several weeks, under the guidance of an expert educator. 

Available to study in these languages:

  • English
    (English) 

  • 繁體中文
    (Chinese Traditional) 

*Delivery will vary by course provider; however, this is the minimum requirement that should be met.

“This is a very well organised and detailed sake education course. You will gain valuable insights into the world of sake from many different angles.”

Honami, Level 3 Award in Sake student

COURSE INFORMATION

Entry requirements

There are no entry requirements for this qualification; however, candidates are required to complete a two-week online pre-study programme before attending the course. You must be of legal drinking age in the country where you are attending the course to participate in any alcohol tasting; however, this is not a barrier to successfully completing Unit 1. 

Requirements may vary by course provider. 

 

Assessment

Unit 1 is assessed by a closed-book exam of 50 multiple-choice questions and a paper of short written answers. Unit 2 is assessed by a blind tasting of two sakes. This qualification is regulated by Ofqual. 

 

Course specification

For more information and full details on the course requirements, please download the Specification below:

 

When can you enrol?

Courses will be offered through an international network of approved course providers. 

To find your nearest course provider, head to our Where to Study page below.