EWA Certification Course in American Single Malt Whiskey

The Certificate in American Single Malt is the only globally recognised qualification dedicated to this dynamic and fast-growing category.

Over two immersive days (5 hours per day), the course traces the roots of American whiskey, explores the rise of craft distilling, and examines the official 2025 recognition of American Single Malt Whiskey as a distinct category.

Guided by industry expert, Devin Ershow, you will:

• Discover the history of whiskey in North America — from early distilling traditions and the Whiskey Rebellion to today’s thriving craft movement.
• Understand the business and legal framework that now protects American Single Malt Whiskey, including its new Standard of Identity.
• Uncover the science and artistry of production, from fermentation and distillation to cask maturation.
• Explore the raw materials, from barley varieties to yeast strains, and learn how they influence flavor.
• Dive into production processes, from malting and fermentation to batch and hybrid distillation.
• Examine maturation strategies across diverse climates, cask types, and wood treatments — and how they shape flavor.
• Gain insight into blending, bottling, and labelling considerations unique to the U.S. market.
• Develop your sensory appreciation with guided tastings of benchmark American single malts, from pioneers like Stranahan’s to emerging craft distilleries.

Hands-on activities, interactive discussions, and comparative tastings with other American whiskey styles bring the learning to life. The course concludes with a one-hour online multiple-choice assessment, leading to the award of the Certificate in American Single Malt Whiskey (Pass, Merit, or Distinction).