WSET® Wine Courses in Japan | WSET Approved Programme Provider for Over 25 Years | Caplan Wine Academy
Caplan Wine Academy has been delivering WSET® wine education in Japan for more than 25 years as a WSET Approved Programme Provider.
Whether you are new to wine or an experienced wine professional, our WSET courses provide a structured and internationally recognized pathway to develop wine knowledge, tasting skills, and professional expertise.
Courses are available in Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, and online.
Discover the global standard in wine education.
What is WSET?
The World’s Leading Drinks Education Organisation
WSET®, founded in London in 1969, is the world’s leading provider of wine, spirits, sake, and beer education. Under its mission of “Global Drinks Education,” WSET continues to lead and shape drinks education worldwide through internationally recognized qualifications and educational programmes.
Why Study WSET®?
The Global Standard in Wine Qualifications
WSET qualifications are delivered through more than 800 Approved Programme Providers across over 70 countries. With approximately 130,000 candidates each year, WSET is widely recognized as the global standard in wine education. Standardized curricula, assessments, and examinations ensure a consistent learning experience worldwide.
Understand Wine Through Logic and Structure
WSET teaches wine through a logical and systematic approach. Rather than simply memorizing facts, students learn how climate, soil, viticulture, winemaking, and maturation influence a wine’s style and quality. This enables learners to explain why a wine tastes the way it does with confidence and clarity.
Develop Systematic Tasting Skills
WSET teaches a globally recognized method for evaluating wine objectively. Using a structured four-step approach covering appearance, aroma, palate, and conclusion, students learn to assess wines systematically. This framework helps beginners build confidence while providing professionals with internationally recognized tasting skills.
The Four Levels of
WSET Wine Qualifications
WSET® Wine Qualifications are structured across four progressive levels, making them suitable for everyone from wine enthusiasts taking their first steps in wine education to experienced industry professionals.
Students can advance through each level at their own pace, building knowledge, tasting skills, and confidence along the way.
The Level 4 Diploma in Wines, WSET’s highest wine qualification, is widely recognized as a pathway to the prestigious Master of Wine (MW) programme.
At Caplan Wine Academy, students can study the complete WSET® Wine pathway from Level 1 through the Level 4 Diploma.
An introductory qualification for those new to wine.
Learn the basic styles of wine, key grape varieties, and fundamental tasting techniques.
Language: English / Japanese
An intermediate qualification covering major grape varieties, wine regions, wine production, and food pairing.
Ideal for wine enthusiasts and industry professionals.
Language: English / Japanese
An advanced qualification for students with prior wine knowledge.
Develop a deeper understanding of the world’s wines and advanced tasting skills.
Language: English / Japanese
WSET’s highest wine qualification and a globally respected credential for wine professionals.
Recognized as a pathway towards the Master of Wine (MW) programme.
Language: English only
Master of Wine (MW)
The Master of Wine (MW) is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious wine qualifications in the world.
Awarded by the Institute of Masters of Wine, the MW designation represents the highest standards of wine knowledge, analytical ability, and professional expertise.
The WSET Level 4 Diploma is widely regarded as the primary pathway to the Master of Wine programme.
Message from Ken Ohashi MW
Ken Ohashi MW
Ken Ohashi MW owns and operates wine and sake specialty stores in Utsunomiya and Tokyo while working internationally as a wine and sake marketing consultant. In addition, he serves as a judge at wine and sake competitions and regularly speaks at seminars, symposiums, and educational events around the world.
My Journey to Becoming a Master of Wine Began with the WSET Diploma
I grew up in a family that operated a wine and spirits business and began studying wine seriously after graduating from university.
In 1999, after winning Japan’s National Wine Advisor Competition, a friend told me, “If you want to make a global impact, you need to aim higher.” Around the same time, I met Master of Wine Sam Harrop, whose international perspective on wine inspired me to pursue the MW qualification.
In 2006, I completed the WSET Diploma at Caplan Wine Academy. At the time, there were no online classes or dedicated support programmes, so much of the preparation required independent study and perseverance.
After years of further study and international educational programmes, I achieved the Master of Wine qualification in September 2015.
Today, many of my fellow Diploma holders are also part of the educator team at Caplan Wine Academy.
For anyone aspiring to deepen their wine knowledge or pursue advanced qualifications, I highly recommend starting with the WSET Diploma and building a strong, structured foundation in wine.
Why Choose Caplan Wine Academy?
Over 25 Years of WSET Excellence
Since 2000, Caplan Wine Academy has been delivering WSET® programmes in Japan and offers the complete pathway from WSET Level 1 to the Level 4 Diploma.
Over the past 25 years, we have helped thousands of students achieve internationally recognized wine qualifications. In 2018, Caplan was selected as one of only seven finalists worldwide for the WSET Educator of the Year Award, demonstrating our commitment to excellence in wine education.
- 1 Caplan Wine Academy was named one of seven finalists worldwide for the WSET Educator of the Year 2018 award in recognition of its contribution to WSET education.
Learn from Award-Winning Educators
Our educators are selected not only for their qualifications, including the WSET Diploma and sommelier certifications, but also for their achievements as wine competition judges, industry professionals, and scholarship recipients.
All instructors have completed the WSET Educator Training Programme (ETP) and teach according to WSET’s globally recognized educational standards.
With over 25 years of teaching experience and a proven WSET methodology, we help students develop the ability to think critically, understand wine deeply, and succeed in their qualifications.
Notable Educator Achievements
Noriko Nakamura DipWSET
McNie Tasting Trophy Winner
Top Performing Student in the Tasting Unit of the WSET® Level 4 Diploma in Wines & Spirits
- ※Awarded the McNie Tasting Trophy as the top-performing candidate in the tasting component of the WSET® Level 4 Diploma in Wines & Spirits in 2012, among more than 680 candidates worldwide.
Motoko Suzuki DipWSET
Top Diploma Graduate in Asia
HKIWSC Scholarship Recipient
- ※Awarded the HKIWSC Scholarship as the top-performing Diploma candidate in Asia in 2014, the highest regional award after the prestigious Vintners’ Cup.
Rie Matsuki DipWSET
Decanter Asia Wine Scholarship Recipient
WSET® Level 3 Award in Wines
- ※Awarded the Decanter Asia Wine Scholarship in 2016 as one of the top-performing WSET® Level 3 candidates across Greater China, Hong Kong & Macau, and Japan.
Flexible Learning Options
Study in the Way That Suits You Best
Choose the learning format that fits your lifestyle.
In addition to classroom courses in Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, Levels 2 and 3 are also available in a hybrid format, combining online theory sessions with intensive in-person tasting workshops.
Recorded lessons are available for students who are unable to attend live online sessions.
- The WSET® Level 4 Diploma in Wines is offered online only.
Study Wine in a Global Learning Environment
Study the complete WSET® Wine pathway in English, from Level 1 through the WSET® Level 4 Diploma in Wines.
Develop internationally recognized wine knowledge and tasting skills while learning alongside international residents in Japan and students with a global outlook.
The WSET® Level 4 Diploma in Wines also provides a pathway to the prestigious Master of Wine (MW) programme.
- WSET® Levels 1 to 3 are available in both English and Japanese.
Courses Available at Caplan Wine Academy
WSET® Level 1 Award in Wines
An introductory qualification designed for those new to wine.
Learn the fundamentals of wine styles, key grape varieties, wine production, food and wine pairing, and the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting.
【Course Overview】
■Level: Beginner
■Location: Tokyo, Osaka
■Language: English / Japanese
■Duration: 1 day
【Assessment】
■Language: English or Japanese
■Assessment: 30 multiple-choice questions
■Duration: 45 minutes
■Pass Mark: 70%
■Pass Rate: Over 90%
WSET® Level 2 Award in Wines
An intermediate qualification for students wishing to build a solid and structured understanding of wine.
Explore major grape varieties, wine regions, production methods, tasting techniques, and food pairing while developing a deeper understanding of how wine styles are shaped.
【Course Overview】
■Level: Beginner to Intermediate
■Location: Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Online
■Language: English / Japanese
■Duration: 4–5 months or Intensive 3-day format
【Assessment】
■Language: English or Japanese
■Assessment: 50 multiple-choice questions
■Duration: 60 minutes
■Pass Mark: 55%
■Pass Rate: Over 85%
WSET® Level 3 Award in Wines
An advanced qualification designed for students who have completed WSET Level 2 or possess equivalent wine knowledge and tasting skills.
Develop a deeper understanding of how environmental factors, viticulture, and winemaking influence wine style and quality, while building the analytical skills needed to explain why a wine tastes the way it does.
＼Dedicated Learning Support／
Our comprehensive support programme includes tasting workshops, theory revision sessions, and three review classes designed to help students prepare confidently for the examination.
【Course Overview】
■Level: Intermediate to Advanced
■Location: Tokyo, Osaka, Online
■Language: English / Japanese
■Duration: Approximately 6 months (19 sessions plus examination)
【Assessment】
■Language: English or Japanese
■Assessment: 50 multiple-choice questions, short written answers, and two blind tasting assessments
■Duration: 120-minute theory examination and 30-minute blind tasting examination
■Pass Mark: 55%
■Pass Rate: Over 60%
WSET® Level 4 Diploma in Wines
The highest level of WSET wine education and one of the most prestigious qualifications in the wine industry.
Designed for dedicated wine enthusiasts and professionals, the programme develops advanced expertise in wine production, wine business, market analysis, and professional wine assessment.
The WSET® Level 4 Diploma in Wines is widely recognized as a pathway to the Master of Wine (MW) programme.
＼Supporting More Than 200 Diploma Graduates／
Caplan Wine Academy provides ongoing academic support, study resources, and examination preparation for Diploma students.
Additional revision programmes are offered to support success across all six Diploma units.
【Course Overview】
■Level: Advanced / Professional
■Location: Online, Tokyo
■Language: English
■Duration: Approximately 2 years
【Assessment】
■Language: English
■Six Units (D1-D6)
D1: Wine Production
Written Examination (90 minutes)
D2: Wine Business
Written Examination (60 minutes)
D3: Wines of the World
Written Examination (200 minutes)
12-wine Blind Tasting Examination (180 minutes)
D4: Sparkling Wines
Written Examination & 3-wine Tasting Assessment (90 minutes)
D5: Fortified Wines
Written Examination & 3-wine Tasting Assessment (90 minutes)
D6: Research Assignment
3,000-word Research Paper (English)
■Pass Mark: 55% in each unit
■Award Granted: Successful completion of all six units
■Qualification Holders: Approximately 10,000 worldwide; 200 in Japan
Meet Our Educators
-
WSET® Level 1 & Level 2 Award in Wines Educator
Lu Gao
With over 14 years of experience in the beverage industry, Lu currently serves as Business Manager at a vineyard in Hokkaido. She earned the WSET Diploma in 2022 with an overall Pass with Merit and a Distinction in Wine Business. Lu is a WSET Certified Educator, Internal Assessor, and International Wine Challenge (IWC) judge.
- WSET Level 4 Diploma
- WSET Certified Educator & Internal Assessor
- International Wine Challenge (IWC) Judge
- WSET Level 2 Award in Beer
-
WSET® Level 3 Award in Wines Educator
Christopher Chevillard
- Master of Wine (MW) Candidate
- WSET® Level 4 Diploma in Wines & Spirits
- Patrick Sandeman Vintners Award Recipient (Viticulture & Vinification)
- Wine Scholar Guild Champagne Master with Highest Honors
- Senior Champagne Brand Ambassador, Pernod Ricard Japan
- IWC Associate Judge
- Italian Wine Maestro
-
WSET® Level 3 Award in Wines Educator
Nicholas Gardiner
- Master of Wine (MW) Candidate
- WSET® Level 4 Diploma in Wines & Spirits
- WSET® Level 3 Award in Sake
- JSA Wine Expert
-
WSET® Level 4 Award in Wines Educator
Ettore Donadeo
- WSET® Level 4 Diploma in Wines & Spirits
- WSET Certified Educator
- Vinitaly International Academy – Italian Wine Expert
- Wine Scholar Guild Certified Educator
- Barossa Master
- Rioja DOCa Certified Educator
-
Cava Academy Advanced Level Cava Educator
- Jumilla DO Certified Educator
- Wine Scholar Guild Bourgogne Master-Level
- DWG Advanced German Wine Kenner
- JSA Wine Expert
Michelle Brampton
Michelle Brampton
Chief Executive Officer, WSET
Passionate Educators Inspiring a Lifelong Journey in Wine
For more than 50 years, WSET has helped people around the world build their knowledge and confidence through engaging and rewarding learning experiences.
We are delighted to see a growing number of students in Japan choosing to pursue WSET qualifications each year. Our portfolio of qualifications in wine, spirits, and sake supports a wide range of learners, from enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge to professionals building careers in the drinks industry.
At Caplan Wine Academy, our educators are passionate about sharing the world of wine and helping students achieve their learning goals.
Student Testimonials
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between WSET and sommelier qualifications?
WSET qualifications focus on understanding wines and other alcoholic beverages from a global perspective, covering topics such as production, styles, regions, and markets. WSET is recognized internationally and is relevant to professionals across all sectors of the wine industry, as well as wine enthusiasts.
In contrast, qualifications offered by the Japan Sommelier Association (JSA) were originally developed for professionals working in the hospitality and beverage industries in Japan, and now also include certifications for wine enthusiasts.
- Can I make up a class if I miss a session?
Yes. Many courses are offered on multiple schedules, and students may attend an alternative session as a make-up class, subject to availability.
Some students even take make-up classes while travelling for business.
- Are there any prerequisites or required knowledge?
Anyone aged 20 or over can enroll in our courses.
However, entry to the WSET® Level 4 Diploma in Wines requires successful completion of the WSET® Level 3 Award in Wines.
- Which course should I take if I work in hospitality or the drinks industry?
The most suitable course depends on your experience and career goals.
For many professionals working in hotels, restaurants, and wine service, WSET® Level 1 Award in Wines provides an excellent introduction. Level 2 offers a broader foundation in wine knowledge, while Level 3 demonstrates an advanced understanding of wine and tasting at an international level.
- Are examination preparation classes available?
Yes. Examination preparation and revision sessions are offered before each examination to help students prepare with confidence.
These sessions are available exclusively to enrolled students.