Crafting Spirits with Expertise: Niagara College’s Artisan Distilling Program
Niagara College, celebrated for its School of Wine, Beer, and Spirits, offers an exceptional Artisan Distilling program, distinguished by its comprehensive approach and practical orientation.
This program is designed to provide students with hands-on skills essential for mastering the entire production cycle of distilled spirits, covering everything from the intricacies of small batch fermentation to the complexities of distillation processes. The training takes place in a state-of-the-art teaching distillery, complemented by experiential learning in an onsite vineyard, orchard, hop yard, and apiary, offering a rare and comprehensive learning environment.
But it’s not just about the distillation process. The program also delves into the business aspects of the distilling world, covering critical areas like the legal and regulatory frameworks, sensory analysis, and stringent quality control measures. A standout feature of the program is the Chef in Residence initiative, where students have the unique opportunity to learn from leading culinary experts, enhancing their understanding of flavour and quality.
The curriculum spans two intensive terms, balancing practical skills with theoretical knowledge. Core courses include Distillery Operations, Distillation Science, Practical Distilling I & II, Sensory Analysis, Quality Control, a capstone project focusing on real-world challenges, and Distillation Management. This blend of courses ensures that graduates are well-equipped with both the technical skills and theoretical knowledge needed in the distilling industry.
Upon completion, graduates are poised to step into various roles within the distilling sector, including distillation manager or technician, operations manager, product developer, or quality control inspector. Graduates are skilled not only in crafting unique spirits but also in managing intricate production processes and navigating the legal and regulatory aspects of the distilling industry.
Niagara College's Artisan Distilling program is more than just an educational journey; it's a pathway to becoming a distinguished professional in the dynamic world of artisanal spirits.