Moonshine University in Louisville, Kentucky, offers students the chance to learn the art and science of the distilling industry, through professional education. Courses are now open for registration for 2016.
The state-of-the-art facility was built for the sole purpose of instructing spirits entrepreneurs and enthusiasts, the company says. Industry experts teach the ins and outs of opening your own beverage business, which includes hands-on workshops in making the spirits themselves, in-depth study of alcohols and distillates, and comprehensive training for building a successful brand.
Since 2012, aspiring distillers have visited Moonshine University’s quarterly 5-day distiller course, where every aspect of the drinks industry is covered. Created by beverage expert and flavor scientist David Dafoe, the workshops provide an outlet for specialization and continued education in the distilling field.
“Nowhere else can you talk one-on-one with a seasoned distillery building consultant, chat about maturation with master distillers, and engage with knowledgeable beverage pros on their successes and failures in one place,” the company said in a press release.
For more information or to register for a course, visit moonshineuniversity.com, call 502-301-8126 or email registrar@moonshineuniversity.com.
The Moonshine University 2016 schedule includes:
Stave & Thief Society Bourbon Making Workshops
Jan. 18 or April 18
This day-long workshop combines classroom instruction, hands-on distilling, and advanced sensory training for spirits and hospitality professionals as well as advanced enthusiasts. It includes certification as Executive Bourbon Stewards in the Stave & Thief Society. Cost is $500 for individuals and $1000 for establishments (which includes 10 handbooks to certify staff).
5-Day Distiller Course
Jan. 25-29 or June 27-July 1
This flagship workshop is taught by industry leaders giving technical and practical insight into what it takes to start a distillery. Cost is $5950.
2-Day Fermentation Workshop
March 14-15
In conjunction with Wilderness Trail Distillery and Ferm Solutions, this hands-on learning experience dives into yeast cycle and viability to best manage fermentation. Cost is $1795.
5-Day Rum Course
April 11-15
Moonshine University and The Rum University join forces to offer the most comprehensive rum training to existing and future rum distillers. Cost is $5495.
Route to Market Workshop
May 26-27
Intensive study into the considerations and strategies for building a brand, taking a product to market, and planning for growth in the future. Cost is $1895.
Distilling Operations 201
June 8-10
For graduates of the 5-Day Distiller Course, this three-day study goes in-depth into the day-to-day for production and development in the distillery. Cost is $4995.