Overview: The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) is renowned for its wine courses, but it also offers comprehensive sake education. Their Level 2 Award course provides an in-depth exploration of the art and science behind sake-making, suitable for both enthusiasts and professionals.
The Full Story
Located on Bermondsey Street in London, WSET’s school has been a hub for wine education since its inception. However, their sake courses often fly under the radar. The Level 3 Award was launched in 2014, followed by the more recent introduction of the Level 2 Award course in 2024. This level strikes an ideal balance between providing enough detail to satisfy enthusiastic amateurs and budding professionals without delving into overly technical subject matter.
The WSET sake courses are designed to be flexible, with options for both online and on-site attendance. The three-day classroom version, held at the Bermondsey base, offers a more immersive experience, allowing students to engage in hands-on learning alongside expert educators. This format is particularly beneficial for those looking to gain practical knowledge of sake-making.
Production & Profile
The Level 2 Award course covers essential topics such as rice polishing ratios, style categories (e.g., junmai and ginjo), koji cultivation, yeast influence on flavor, and various rice varieties used in sake production. Students also learn about the role of water quality and temperature control during fermentation.
During the practical sessions, students have ample opportunity to taste a wide range of sakes under expert guidance. This hands-on approach enables them to develop their palate and gain confidence in evaluating different styles and flavor profiles.
Brand & Industry History
The Wine & Spirit Education Trust was established with the aim of providing world-class education for wine and spirits professionals. Over time, WSET expanded its offerings to include sake courses, reflecting a growing demand for expertise in this niche area. By partnering with industry experts and utilizing their vast network, WSET is able to offer cutting-edge training that meets the evolving needs of the market.
The global interest in sake has been steadily increasing over recent years, driven by factors such as changing consumer preferences, cultural exchange programs, and innovative marketing strategies. As a result, there is an expanding demand for skilled sake professionals who can cater to this growing audience.
What This Means
The launch of the Level 2 Award course in 2024 signals WSET’s commitment to meeting industry demands for comprehensive sake education. By offering specialized training programs that address specific aspects of sake production, such as rice polishing ratios and yeast influence on flavor, WSET is helping to standardize quality control across the global sake market.
This emphasis on rigorous standards and expertise also contributes to raising consumer awareness about the complexities involved in producing high-quality sakes. As a result, consumers can expect better-tasting products with more consistent profiles from reputable producers.
Consumer Takeaway
The WSET Level 2 Award course provides an unparalleled opportunity for enthusiasts and professionals alike to delve into the intricacies of sake-making. Upon completion, participants will possess in-depth knowledge about rice polishing ratios, style categories, koji cultivation, yeast influence on flavor, and practical advice on serving and pairing sakes with food.
Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or just starting your journey in sake appreciation, this course offers the perfect blend of theoretical foundations and hands-on training to equip you with the skills required to navigate even the most refined aspects of sake culture.
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