This class will take you through the hands-on experience of producing distilled spirits. Along with gaining a basic understanding of what goes into producing the various categories of distilled spirits such as whiskey, both grain/malt, vodka, gin and brandy, we will walk you through the principles of fermentation using active mash tanks, firing up the still and identifying the various chemical alcohols produced in the process, distinguishing the cuts. We will review the barreling process, blending, proofing and preparing for bottling and discuss the such topics such as distillation in copper vs. stainless and distilling with environmental consciousness. Learn to identify individual attributes of rum produced within other regions such Cuba, Jamaica, Puerto Rico and America. We will touch on organic certification process, the agencies involved and the requirements of handling and labeling. The class will conclude with a formal tasting of two local distillers.
Pre-requisites: Minimum age 21, bring photo ID to first class session. We highly recommend having previous experience or a strong knowledge in the production of alcohol or previously attended the Cal Poly Extended Education’s Introduction to Distillation class. We strongly encourage carpooling.