White pitcher pouring water into a cup, representing the WSET Level 1 Award in Sake | Online Course's hands-on learning approach.

WSET Level 1 Award in Sake | Online Course

WSET Level 1 Award in Sake | Online Course

$35700
/
Course Date

The WSET Level 1 Award in Sake Online Course at Napa Valley Wine Academy is the perfect introduction to the world of sake, offering a comprehensive foundation for beginners and enthusiasts alike. This course is designed to give you a solid understanding of sake production, styles, and tasting techniques, all from the convenience of your own home.

Over the course of 4 weeks, you’ll explore the key stages of sake production, learn how to read sake labels, and gain insights into the traditional and modern styles of this iconic Japanese beverage. You'll also discover how to pair sake with food, enhancing your appreciation of its versatility and cultural significance.

The online format allows you to learn at your own pace, with engaging study materials, videos, and interactive quizzes. Plus, you'll have access to expert guidance and support throughout your learning journey.

Upon completion, you'll have the confidence to make informed decisions about sake selection, tasting, and service. The course culminates in a remotely invigilated exam, leading to an internationally recognized WSET Level 1 Award in Sake.

Whether you're a wine and spirits professional looking to expand your expertise or simply someone with a passion for sake, this course is your gateway to a deeper understanding of one of the world’s most fascinating beverages.

Liz Pirnat

Head WSET Spirits Instructor, DipWSET, Level 3 Spirits

Liz is our resident WSET Spirits expert and educator, awarded as our WSET Certified Educator for Spirits; holding the WSET Level 3 Spirits award certification as well as the Diploma in Wine & Spirits from the WSET. Liz’s spirits expertise includes numerous other certifications and awards including Executive Bourbon Steward from the Stave and Thief Society. Her journey into the spirited world of whiskey began during her studies for the WSET Diploma, leading her to the renowned Springbank Whisky School in Campbeltown, Scotland, an experience she cherishes as her most memorable whiskey adventure. Beyond her whiskey expertise, Liz is also a Master of Baijiu, Baijiu Apprentice, and holds the esteemed “T” Certification from the Consejo Regulador del Tequila. Currently, Liz leads as the head spirits instructor for Napa Valley Wine Academy, teaching WSET Spirits Level 1 and 2, guiding students with the same passion that first ignited her whiskey interest. Her educational influence extends beyond the world of spirits; she is also an active member of her local school’s Board of Education, demonstrating a commitment to learning in all its forms. Liz’s personal passions are as dynamic as her professional pursuits. An avid Peloton enthusiast, she finds joy in the fusion of fitness and technology. Moreover, her love for musical theater adds a creative and artistic dimension to her multifaceted personality.

Csilla Kato

D.W.S., A.I.W.S, Winemaker, Instructor

Csilla was born and raised in beautiful Budapest, Hungary, and was bitten by the wine bug during high school when she helped with regular tastings at her brother’s wine shop. After a short stint in law school, she changed her focus and spent five years earning her Masters degree in Fermentation Science and Post-Harvest Technologies. Right after graduation she had the opportunity to work and travel and landed a harvest in Sonoma, California. Csilla worked with Zinfandel, Cabernet, and Chardonnay while learning the process of winemaking first hand in the famed Ravenswood Winery. After her first harvest, she was hungry for more and went on to take part in harvests in Italy, Hungary, and New Zealand, as well as Napa. She has spent years working in winemaking labs analyzing the myriad of aspects that make wine great while also making great wines along the way. Since 2007 she has been with Beringer Vineyards, where she began as an Enologist and today is an Associate Winemaker with a few labels under her supervision. Tramping around vineyards, tasting fermentations at various stages and assembling final blends are some of her favorite parts of being a winemaker. Csilla also enjoys sharing her passion and knowledge about the wine industry with those who care to know. She holds her Level 4 Diploma with the prestigious Wine & Spirit Education Trust and relishes the opportunity to educate new students at Napa Valley Wine Academy. Married to an amazing brewer, who has taught her to appreciate great beers, she is a mother of two and spends most of her free time enjoying watching them grow.

Learn from the Best

Imagine learning from top wine experts, including Masters of Wine, who bring not just their knowledge but also their passion for wine into every lesson. At Napa Valley Wine Academy, your education is led by these experts, who are eager to share their insights and experiences with you, helping you to not only learn but also love the journey.

Consistently High Success Rates

You want results, and our track record speaks for itself. We're proud to have one of the highest pass rates globally for WSET exams. This success comes from our commitment to providing you with the best preparation possible, ensuring you feel confident and well-equipped to excel in your exams.

Tailored Online Resources

Your learning needs are unique, which is why we offer a comprehensive suite of online tools. These resources are designed to fit your lifestyle, allowing you to study whenever and wherever it suits you best. Whether you prefer hitting the books at dawn or reviewing notes during a lunch break, we've got you covered.

Personalized Support

At Napa Valley Wine Academy, you’re not just another student. Our mentoring and coaching sessions are tailored to address your specific needs, helping you overcome any challenges and make the most of your study time. We're here to guide you every step of the way.

Get Ready Before You Arrive

Feel prepared from day one with our online pre-course study modules available to you right after enrollment. These modules help lay a solid foundation so that when you step into our classroom, you’re already on your way to becoming a wine expert.

Join Thousands of Satisfied Learners

Each year, over 6,000 students choose to start their wine education with us. Join a community of like-minded enthusiasts and professionals who are all on their journey to mastering wine. Here, you're part of a group that supports and grows together.

Recognition and Respect in the Wine World

When you study with us, you join the ranks of the most awarded and respected WSET approved program provider in the world. Your certification from Napa Valley Wine Academy is not just a piece of paper—it’s a passport to opportunities in the wine industry and a marker of excellence recognized globally.

We’re Invested in Your Satisfaction

We know that you’ll love your experience with us because our current students do! They consistently tell us how much they appreciate our engaging courses, the expertise of our instructors, and our supportive, community-focused environment. We’re dedicated to your satisfaction and committed to making your learning experience both enriching and enjoyable.

Choosing Napa Valley Wine Academy means placing yourself at the forefront of wine education. Equip yourself with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in the wine industry or enhance your personal passion for wine. We’re excited to be part of your journey and are here to support you every sip of the way.

Your Registration Fee Includes

  • DEDICATED INSTRUCTOR for the 4-week portion of the course, and continuing with 12 months access to the online course material which includes lecture videos, quizzes, a mock exam and more.
  • LIVE WEBINARS which include instructor-led tastings, theory review, and the ability to ask questions. (LINK TO WEBINAR SCHEDULE on help.napavalleywineacademy.com)
  • TEXTBOOK for Level 1 is downloadable in the first online course module, which you can access right after registration.
  • Registration and exam fees

Here's the revised content for WSET Level 1 Award in Sake:

  • The basic principles of sake production: Learn the fundamental steps in sake brewing, from rice polishing and fermentation to pressing and pasteurization.
  • The main types and styles of sake: Explore a wide range of sake styles, including Junmai, Honjozo, Ginjo, and Daiginjo, and understand what distinguishes them.
  • How to serve sake: Gain knowledge on the proper techniques for serving sake, including glassware selection, pouring methods, and ideal serving temperatures.
  • Factors affecting the flavor of sake: Discover how rice, water, yeast, and brewing methods influence the taste, aroma, and quality of sake.
  • How to describe sake using the WSET Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting Sake® (SAT): Develop a structured approach to tasting that allows you to identify and describe the aroma, flavor, body, and finish of sake.

This comprehensive coverage ensures a thorough introduction to the world of sake, equipping participants with the knowledge needed to understand and appreciate sake both professionally and personally.

This is a four-week, semi-synchronous (combination instructor-led and self-paced) course with a fixed start/end date. However, you will have 12 months of access to the online learning material, allowing you to study wine in a way that fits your schedule.

All attendees must be at least 21 years of age.

PREREQUISITE: This beginner course is suitable for those without previous beer knowledge.

RECOMMENDED STUDY HOURS needed to pass the exam are 8-12.

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

System Requirements: This course is taught 100% online; students will require access to a computer with the following minimum requirements: Firefox 25.0, Safari 6, Chrome 30.0, or other HTML5 compatible with Javascript and cookies enabled. Adobe Reader XI or equivalent. Internet access (broadband recommended).

Here’s the updated FAQ for the WSET Level 1 Award in Sake Online Course:

Q: What is the WSET Level 1 Award in Sake online course schedule?
A: The course is self-paced and accessible 24/7, featuring a range of learning materials, including videos, interactive guides, activities, quizzes, and mock exams. Additionally, there are three (3) instructor-led 60-minute Zoom webinars scheduled; the dates and times are listed in the first module of your online course. If you purchased a Sake Tasting Kit, it will arrive before your First Webinar Date (not the start of the online course access).

Q: Are the webinars essential to the WSET Level 1 Sake course, and what if I miss a live session?
A: While the webinars are an integral part of the course, providing orientation, lectures, and guided tasting sessions, they are not the entirety of the course. If you cannot attend a live webinar, don’t worry – all sessions are recorded and posted for later viewing.

Q: How do I communicate with instructors and fellow students during the course?
A: Interaction with instructors and peers is facilitated through the webinars and the online GROUP, all of which take place during the four-week instructor-led portion of the course.

Q: How soon do I get access to the online course after purchase?
A: You will receive email links to access the first module of your online course within 30 minutes of your purchase.

Q: Is there a textbook for the WSET Level 1 Sake course, and how do I access it?
A: Yes, there is a downloadable textbook for Level 1, which is accessible within the online course.

Q: How long do I have access to the online course material?
A: After the initial 4-week instructor-led portion, students retain access to the online course materials for a full 12 months.

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