Due to the growing interest of the Chinese middle class in wine, the Sydney Wine Academy has launched a WSET (Wine and Spirit Education Trust) Level 1 Award in Sake course delivered in Mandarin and simplified Chinese, by Chinese speaking trainer. WSET is the wines, spirits and sake qualification recognised globally.

The delivery will be the first of its kind in Australia, following the successful launch of WSET Level 2 Award in Wines and Spirits in Chinese. Graduates can explore a career in the retail or hospitality sectors of the wine industry.

According to Wine Australia[1], China is one of the largest and fastest-growing wine markets in the world. The Chinese market is the biggest market for Australian wine, which has created growing interest amongst the Chinese middle class to learn more about wine production, styles, storage and matching food with wine for those looking to start a wine career,

The course will be delivered by Andy Chen, a bilingual WSET accredited educator and Sydney Wine Academy Alumni. Andy is well respected by the liquor industry at an elite level, is a wine show judge and has an extensive background and knowledge in sake.

TAFE NSW Sydney Wine Academy Course Director, Clive Hartley, said that the course is unique to Australia’s largest education and training provider and that TAFE NSW is the only provider in Australia to offer Sake courses delivered in Mandarin and simplified Chinese by an accredited WSET Chinese lecturer.

“The Level 1 Award in Sake qualification is a beginner level introduction course designed for Chinese speaking students who would like to start a career in the industry or pursue an interest in sake. During this time, students will explore the main styles and types of sake through sight, smell and taste to develop and understanding of the key factors affecting flavors and aromas.”

Rita Yuli LI, a recent WSET Level 2 Award in Sake graduate said that the course delivered in Chinese was a great advantage.

“I was really impressed with Andy Chen’s passion and knowledge in wines, spirits and sake, and his ability to deliver the course professionally, and in a fun manor.

“I strongly recommend this course to any member of the Chinese community who wants to kick-start a career in the wine and hospitality industry. Studying in the mother tongue means easy and effective learning. There is also the added advantage of developing English and bilingual references in specific wine terms and knowledge, which is beneficial in a multi-culture society,” said Ms LI.

The next one-day WSET Level 1 Award in Sake course delivered in Mandarin and simplified Chinese will take place on Saturday 2 March 2019 at the TAFE NSW Sydney Wine Academy at Ryde.

For further information visit sydneywineacademy.edu.au.

Media contact: Laura Kelly, Media and Communications Business Partner, laura.kelly40@tafensw.edu.au or 0411 777 676.