Learn about distillery operations
An on-demand course covering the fundamentals of distilling, distillery operations and the technical understanding needed to work as a spirits producer.
On demand and bite sized
Learning should be fun, and it should fit around your schedule.
We’ve broken down the course into clear modules, split into short videos with optional extra reading available online.
Increase your knowledge
As it covers all the major areas involved in distillery operations, this is an ideal course for those working in spirits production and wanting to sharpen their skills, or those interested in starting their own craft distillery.
PROCESS, PERFORMANCE & DISTILLING
Technically minded and covering the spectrum of major categories, this is a programme for those looking to further their skills making Whisky, Rum, Brandy, Gin and Vodka and become more competent and confident distillers.
01
Introductions
How does our course work, how to use the platform and all the necessary housekeeping to learn around your needs and preferences.
02
Raw Materials
How are materials processed and how are they prepared for distillation?
We look at the ingredients needed, from cereal to cane to water and power.
03
Yeast & Fermentation
A deep dive into yeast and how fermentation works across the spectrum, covering methods, principles and flavour creation.
We also look at the equipment needed and how to scale.
04
Principles of Distillation
Insight into the principles of distillation.
We explore how still design affects flavour, discuss some of the key features to understand when buying and / or using a still.
05
Gin & Vodka
A deep dive into continuous distillation and both craft and industrial vodka production.
For Gin, we explore botanicals, distillation techniques, recipe formulation, cuts and more.
06
Whisky
From grain to glass – malting, mashing, specific to whisky fermentation, distillation methods and maturation.
We explain style specific processes, maturation plans and waste effluent.
07
Rum & Brandy
Insight and info specific to making rum and brandy respectively, including specialised raw material preparation, fermentation, distillation methods and maturation techniques.
08
Health, Safety & Quality
What does best practice look like, how to go about process control and organisational structure?
We explain how to set up operational consistency and discuss useful inventory management systems.
09
Design & Sustainability
Great spirits are build from the ground up, literally.
We explore how to build environments that are conducive to consistent results and delivering optimum performance and quality – both practically and sustainably.
10
Beyond Operations
Mindset and integrating production into other facets of a distillery and / or brand.
Tips and tricks for how to embrace ESG principles within distilling, how to showcase production to drinkers, integrate tourism, and build a distiller’s role beyond operations.
Who is this for?
New distillers & those planning a new venture
If you are in the process of setting up a distillery, this course will give you insight into how spirits are made, how distilleries are built and run day to day, and reduce the amount of unknowns. It’s the ultimate way to save time, avoid mistakes, save money and create significantly better products.
For those interested in a career in distilling or just starting out in the craft industry, this is a way to fast forward your journey.
Through the explanations, the context and the scope of what’s included – you will be more advanced, have a better holistic understanding of spirits and be equipped with ways to improve in your everyday operations.
ConsistEncy creates quality
Continuous improvement
World class producers don’t start by knowing it all.
They spend years honing their craft, refining their skills and remain humble enough to always want to learn something new. It’s a process, not a destination.
This is a course designed for those on that journey and looking to gain a more holistic understanding of distillery operations and how to implement best practice. To go beyond what works for them currently and beyond just repeating what they have going on already. It’s for those interested in developing further and improving – continuous improvement is key, from mindset to skillset.
Introductory price costs £165 ( + VAT where applicable) for over 12h of content delivered in bite-sized format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who delivers the course?
Our Distillery Operations Course is lead by Olivier Ward. Having spent over a decade at the forefront of the craft gin boom, Olivier is widely recognised as a global gin expert and an ambassador for the category. As a journalist he has covered the span of the spirits industry, from trade news, to industry trends, production insight and commentary.
Olivier is also a trained and qualified distiller, and has helped clients build distilleries in several countries.
Do I get a certificate on completion?
Yes! We will issue a certificate on completing the course.
While there are mini-quizzes to aid you in cementing what you have learned, this isn’t an exam based course.
Is it possible to extend the amount of time the course is accessible after purchase?
The cumulative total time needed for the course is 12h. Once purchased, the course is available for two months only. Ample time to learn at your leisure, and return to sections if needed.
Difficulty logging into the Course?
No problem – drop us a note and we’ll help!
Can I receive an invoice detailing my charges?
Absolutely. The course is hosted on Teachable and each transaction will carry its own invoice and tax receipt.