Level 2

Category & Production Deep Dive

Go beyond category recognition and learn how production choices, standards, and regional traditions build identity.

Academy lapel pin

The next layer

From what it is to why it tastes that way.

Level 2 is designed after Level 1 or for students with equivalent spirits knowledge.

Students complete expanded category study and comparative tasting work, then receive an Academy lapel pin or equivalent Level 2 completion item.

8+Spirit families and regional traditions

6Possible comparative tasting formats

02Second step in the Academy path

Expanded study

Bourbon, rye, corn, malt, wheat, Irish, Scotch, Tennessee—and how standards and traditions shape identity.

Mash bill, entry proof, char, barrel placement, age, finishing, and proofing.

Molasses, cane juice, pot and column stills, fermentation length, tropical aging, and place-based identities.

Distilled, redistilled, compound methods, juniper, botanicals, Old Tom, London Dry style, and balance.

Rectification, filtration, water, texture, raw material, and why neutral does not mean characterless.

Fruit distillates, regional brandy context, agave cooking, fermentation, distillation, and recognition.

Tasting work