Earn Your Distilling Credentials: International Spirits Academy Is Launching in Sydney with a Four-Level Program
Hit the books, as well as the bar, with this expert-led certification program setting a global benchmark in distilling education.
Turn your love of spirits into a scholarly pursuit, as the International Spirits Academy (ISA) launches a new Sydney school. Established by the team behind the Australian Gin Distillers Association, Australian Gin Awards and Gin Events Pty Ltd, a fully fledged certification program aims to set global benchmarks in distilled spirits knowledge and certification, helping put Australia even more on the map as a hub of distilling prowess.
With established programs like the Master Sommelier and Master Cicerone teaching the ins and outs of wine and beer service, the ISA will now offer a four-level spirit certification. If you stick with the course to complete the program's highest level, you'll have earned the rather fancy-sounding Master of Eau de Vie title. Yet don't think earning this qualification is as simple as answering a few multiple-choice questions.
With courses beginning in July, the ISA will provide in-person lectures, deductive tastings and examinations at progressive stages, with each needing to be completed before you can move on. This certification is primarily aimed at hospitality and spirits industry professionals working across cocktail bars, fine-dining restaurants, hotels, retail stores and production facilities. However, enrolment is also open to spirits producers and enthusiasts seeking deeper expertise.
"As the global spirits industry matures, the demand for true spirits professionals will only grow. Our vision with the International Spirits Academy is to provide a rigorous, independent path to mastery — giving students the knowledge, tasting expertise, and service excellence needed to lead the next generation of hospitality experiences," says Judith Kennedy AM, Founder and Chair of the International Spirits Academy.
Covering production methods, sensory analysis, service, sales and international legislation, students will graduate with a detailed understanding of distilled spirits. While the first couple of stages instil foundational knowledge, giving students a strong grounding in the basics, the advanced levels ramp up the depth and breadth of the studies, with seasoned experts working towards "encyclopaedic knowledge and exceptional sensory skill."
As for who's leading your learning, expect an esteemed team of distilling masters, including Bill Lark — aka the godfather of Australian craft distilling — Charles Casben, Dr Sarah Fletcher, Ned Goodwin MW, Huon Hooke, and Mikey Enright. Combining decades of experience and unmatched industry connections, these ISA experts, mentors and gurus will undoubtedly help you master the art of distilling spirits.
Enrolments at the International Spirits Academy (ISA) open this May, with courses beginning the first week of July, 2025. Head to the website for more information.
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