Deja vu Sake Company is hosting its first WSET Level 3 Award in Sake course this October.
The four day intensive course is pitched to professionals working with sake or sake enthusiasts with some Sake knowledge and aims to further develop expertise in Sake and extend understanding of how different production techniques affect the style and quality of Japan’s.
Organisers say that by the end of the course, participants should be able to assess Sakes accurately and use this information and improved understanding of Sake to make authoritative recommendations.
“When we started our Sake business nearly 10 years ago, I would not imagine current level of interests in Sake. Not many sommeliers thought they needed to learn about Sake. And consumers thought Sake is very high alcoholic drink.
“We needed to educate the market with collective Sake knowledge (history, production, grades, styles etc) and worked with influential people like highly regarded sommelier like Franck Moreau and wine journalists. “
For Ms Ochiai, she has worked hard to re-define the way in which Japanese Sakes are perceived and consumed in Australia, as a versatile accompaniment to non-Japanese foods including pizza and at an Australia barbecue.
“Now many restaurants and wine shops sell Japanese Sake, this is great. We always want Sake to become one of your everyday drink choices like wine,” says Ms Ochiai.
Since starting the business, Ms Ochiai has also watched as Japan has become an increasingly popular destination for Australians for skiing and other cultural experiences.
She says, “Australians love Japan now and while they are in Japan, they most probably had Sake and some people become real Sake fans. Japanese culture, foods, places like Tokyo and Kyoto are very fascinating for Australian. So all combination would make more people to be interested in Sake as Japan package deal (!), we think.”
The Sydney course is run by Déjà vu Sake Company from 11-14 October while for Melburnians, the Prince Wine Store will run the WSET course from 4-7 October. Ms Ochiai will also host this presentation.
Participants will gain and understanding as to how these various techniques lead to such a diversity in styles, all teased out from a humble grain of rice.
You will receive a WSET certificate and lapel pin.
WSET Level 3 Award in Sake, Sydney, 11-14 October
Gourmet Traveller Wine Space, 119 Kippax Street, Surry Hills
Monday & Tuesday: 9.00am-5.00pm: Lessons
Wednesday: 9.00am-1.00pm: Lesson
Thursday: 9.00am-1.00pm: Exam
Registrations close on 20 September unless sold out earlier.
WSET qualifications are globally recognised as the international standard in wine and spirit knowledge. They are designed for those who are just starting out in their careers, as well as established professionals, and the many enthusiasts who have a passion for wines and spirits.
