The Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET), the global leader in drinks education, has today announced an extension to its Australian program with the additions of accredited course providers for its Level 1 and Level 2 Awards in Beer.
“2024 will be an exciting year for WSET as we expand into a new drinks category for the first time in 10 years,” said Sarah Andrew, WSET Head APP Development, APAC.
“We have identified Australia as the most important market to launch our WSET beer qualifications in the Asia Pacific region, based on production and consumer engagement.”
Initially, five organisations across four states have been accredited as official course providers. The courses will be available both in person and online and will begin starting from March.
“Our new Level 1 and 2 Awards in Beer will bring a unique and interactive approach to tasting and learning,” said Andrew.
“Having completed both awards and the Educator Training Program for beer, I am excited that WSET is now able to share these courses with both trade professionals and enthusiasts through our network of course providers.”
Beer will be the fourth WSET drinks category in Australia, following on from wine, spirits and sake. The two new beer qualifications cater to beginner and intermediate levels.
“WSET offers globally recognised qualifications and has an outstanding reputation,” said Jayne Lewis, WSET Business Development Manager, Beer.
“There is space in the Australian market for courses that offer a set syllabus, along with the joys of tasting beer in-person with other like minded individuals. The courses give people an opportunity to understand more about how beer is made and introduces them to a wide range of beer styles, helping them discuss and describe beers with confidence.”
Australian WSET Awards in Beer providers include Adelaide’s Juice Wine Education & Training Consultants Adelaide, Melbourne’s Bacchus Academy, Geelong’s Archive Academy and Stanthorpe Queensland College of Wine Tourism. Endeavour Group, based in Sydney, has also been approved to train its own team members.
To celebrate the launch, WSET will also host a series of four free webinars between 26 February and 1 March. The webinars will explore topics such as What beer is made from, How beer is made, How to choose the right glass, and How to taste beer.
More information can be found on the WSET website.
