Level 1

Spirits Fundamentals

Build a dependable foundation for understanding how spirits are made, classified, and tasted.

Certificate of completion
Fermented and Distilled Academy challenge coin

Course promise

Understand the shared path.

Students leave with clear category language and a tasting method they can use again.

A strong start for curious adults

Level 1 is beginner-friendly, but it is also useful for enthusiasts and hospitality professionals who want a cleaner framework and better language for spirits.

2–3Hours, depending on discussion and group size
21+Adult students only
01Academy certificate of completion

What students learn

The foundation.

Production, categories, and tasting are taught as one connected system.

01

Shared production science

Sugar or starch, fermentation, distillation, maturation, proofing, blending, finishing, sweetening, and flavoring.

02

Whiskey and bourbon

Whiskey as a grain-based class and bourbon as a specific American whiskey shaped by corn and charred new oak.

03

Brandy and rum

Fruit-first spirits versus cane-first spirits—and why raw material and fermentation style matter.

04

Gin and vodka

Neutrality versus botanical design, including why juniper matters and why vodka is classified differently.

05

Agave spirits and liqueurs

Recognition-level understanding of agave-based spirits and sweetened or flavored spirit products.

06

Guided tasting

Look, smell, sip, evaluate structure, describe finish, use water thoughtfully, and compare categories.

Class flow

A clear classroom structure.

Set the frame

Goals, definitions, and why standards matter.

Shared science

Sugar, fermentation, distillation, oak, and proof.

Core categories

Whiskey, bourbon, brandy, rum, gin, vodka, and agave.

Guided tasting

Glassware, smelling, tasting, comparison, and water.

Review and Q&A

Reinforce production choices, standards, and sensory cues.

Start with Level 1.

Ask about the next public session, a private group, or training for a hospitality team.

Contact the Academy