WSET Level 1 Sake Course

This course is intended for individuals beginning a career in the hospitality or drinks industry, or for those seeking core knowledge of sake production and tasting.

Prior knowledge is not required. Throughout the day, you will learn to navigate sake categories, taste methodically, and understand the core variables that determine a sake’s characteristics.

About the course: 

• Duration & dates: Monday 2nd November 2026, 10 am to 5 pm.
• Group: Limited to a maximum of 12 students.
• Tasting: You will sample 8 premium sakes as part of the course.
• Sake Educator: Camilla Bonnannini. Camilla delivers precise, well-informed instruction, focusing on accurate tasting methodology and fundamental sake knowledge to ensure student success.
• Exam: 30 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 45 minutes at the end of the day.
• Qualification: Internationally recognised WSET Level 1 Award in Sake. Granted to students who achieve a score of 70% or higher.
• Preparation: While prior knowledge is not required, it is recommended to dedicate one hour to reading the coursebook PDF prior to the start date.
• Price: £240 (inclusive of VAT).

WSET Level 1 Course Synopsis: 

• Sake Tasting: Assess and describe sake systematically using the WSET® Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT).
• Basic Principles of Sake Production: Understand the foundational steps in sake brewing, including the specific roles of rice, water, koji, and yeast.
• Main Types and Styles of Sake: Learn the defining characteristics of principal sake categories, including Junmai, Honjozo, Ginjo, and Daiginjo.
• Factors Affecting Flavour: Identify how production choices impact the final style, aroma, and taste profile of the sake.
• Service and Storage: Learn the correct methods for storing sake and the principles of serving it at appropriate temperatures.
• Social Responsibility: A practical guide to units of alcohol and sensible drinking guidelines.
• Study Materials: Students will be sent the  WSET Level 1 Award in Sake  study guide via email prior to the course start date.
• Certificate: Upon successful completion of the course, a digital certificate will be issued by WSET (please note this qualification provides a digital certificate only).

Why Do WSET Level 1 with Loki?

• Direct Sourcing: By buying direct, we eliminate intermediaries, allowing us to pour premium sakes for the tasting portion of the course and ensuring excellent value.
• High Standards: Our educators are committed to clear, factual instruction. Loki students achieved a 99% pass rate across our courses last year.
• Expert Staff: All Loki staff hold advanced WSET qualifications. You can visit any Loki store for advice or to utilize our venue for study during opening hours, with knowledgeable staff available to assist.
• Dedicated Venue: Our purpose-designed tasting lounge offers plenty of natural light, providing optimal conditions for analytical tasting.
• Small Class Sizes: Capping attendance at 12 people ensures everyone has the opportunity to ask clarifying questions and participate in focused discussions.
• Value: Operating our own dedicated tasting venue reduces overheads, allowing us to pass those savings on and remain highly competitive on course pricing.

WSET Level 1 Sake Course Outcomes:

• By the end of the course, you’ll have a clear and structured understanding of the principal styles of sake, what defines them and the characteristics you can expect to find in the glass.
• You’ll learn how to taste and describe sake with confidence using the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting, as well as how production methods, ingredients and style influence the final character of the drink. The course also covers the best ways to serve and store sake, helping you get the most from every bottle.
• You’ll also become familiar with key Japanese labelling terms, giving you the knowledge to read sake labels with greater confidence and make more informed choices when buying or ordering sake.
• Designed to be both informative and enjoyable, this course provides a strong foundation for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of sake, whether for personal interest or professional development.

About the Educator

Cam is a certified sake specialist and educator dedicated to expanding Japanese beverage education across Europe. Grounded in years of fine dining sommelier experience, her background includes the WSET Level 3 in Sake, Sake Scholar, JSA Sake Diploma (International), and the JSS Academy alongside other titles and hands-on experience at Tatenokawa Brewery in Yamagata.

EXCLUSIVE PROMOTIONS:

• 10% Retail Discount: 10% off sake and wine in-store throughout the duration of your course to assist with independent tasting practice.
• Trade Access: If you work in the drinks trade, speak to us regarding our trade discounts.
• Group Bookings: A 10% discount is applied for group bookings of 10 or more people.***

T&CS: 

If booking within 60 days of the course you must pay the full cost when you book. We must receive the full cost of your course (less any deposits already paid) no later than 60 days before the start date. If you make a late booking within 60 days of the course the full amount must be paid immediately. If for any reason the full cost of your course is not received by us within 60 days of the course start date, we will be entitled to treat your booking as cancelled by you and your deposit will be kept. Should you wish to cancel your booking we will refund your money less the cost of the course book and any administration cost we have incurred providing we receive written notice at least 30 days before the start date of the course.  If we cancel the course a full refund will be made.

*Up-to £100 in value. Offers can be withdrawn without notice.
**Trade discounts are only available to people who can prove they are directly employed in the drinks trade.
***Group bookings must be made all together for a single course. You can choose any date you like for private WSET Level 1 wine Courses (subject to availability).