Moonshine University Offers Classes for Aspiring Distillers and Enthusiasts for 2014

Moonshine University at Distilled Spirits Epicenter has announced its 2014 schedule of distiller and enthusiast courses and workshops. Spirits aficionados of all levels, from novices to aspiring distillers, are invited to take part in hands-on learning in Moonshine University’s working distillery and classroom. As the educational member of the Kentucky Distillers Association, Moonshine University offers research and training opportunities to develop Kentucky’s distilling industry and features opportunities for enthusiasts to learn more about their favorite spirits. Even “Bizarre Foods” host Andrew Zimmern and the cast of “Moonshiners” have gotten in on the action, learning beverage secrets from Moonshine University’s experts. Moonshine University is located at 801 S. 8th St. To register or for more information, call (502) 301-8126 or email registrar@moonshineuniversity.com.

Moonshine University 2014 Schedule:

Enthusiast Classes ($29 to $39)

Our Enthusiast Classes are created for those who share our passion for the craft of distilling and the spirits themselves. Topics for each two-hour class include history, legends and lesser-known stories about the featured spirit. Every class includes sensory evaluations along with a tour of our distillery.

• June 19 – 6 to 8 p.m. – Bourbon History with Mike Veach
• Aug. 21 – 6 to 8 p.m. – Bourbon in the Kitchen
• Oct. 16 – 6 to 8 p.m. – Bourbon Enthusiasts
• Nov. 20 – 6 to 8 p.m. – Gin Enthusiasts
• Dec. 5 – 6 to 8 p.m. – Repeal Day Event

Enthusiast Workshops ($395)

For those wanting a unique, hands-on distilling experience, roll up your sleeves and spend a day in our distillery as we show you the ins and outs of making spirits. From mashing to making the cuts, we will explore time-honored traditions, science, and modern methods of distilling.

• March 7 – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – One-Day Moonshine Workshop
• May 9 – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Bourbon Making Workshop
• July 11 – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Bourbon Making Workshop

Distiller Courses ($5,750)

Our professional distiller courses are designed to give the most comprehensive technical training and business management education in the industry.

• March 17 to 21 – Times vary – 5-Day Distiller Course
• July 28 to Aug. 1 – Times vary – 5-Day Distiller Course
• Nov. 3 to 7 – Times vary – 5-Day Distiller Course

Distiller Workshops ($1295 to $1595)

Our professional workshops offer specialized instruction in various areas of distillate production, business management and industry best practices.

• Feb. 17 to 18 – Times vary – 1½-Day Gin Workshop
• March 10 to 11 – Times vary – Two-Day Whiskey Blending Workshop
• Aug. 11 to 12 – Times vary – Two-Day Rum Course

For more information, please visit www.moonshineuniversity.com/course-schedule

Located at 801 S. 8th St., Distilled Spirits Epicenter consists of Grease Monkey Distillery, Moonshine University and Challenge Bottling and offers educational and training resources focusing on artisan spirits. Through hands-on distilling instruction, classes and bottling services, the Epicenter brings Kentucky’s unique distilling legacy to life. Distilled Spirits Epicenter is the sister company to Flavorman, an international custom beverage development and ingredient supply company. Flavorman’s Beverage Architects and the Epicenter’s team of distilling consultants can take your idea through every phase of beverage development and production…from start through finish. For more information, visit www.flavorman.com and www.ds-epicenter.com.