< Back to Executive Bourbon Steward (In Person)

Advanced Bourbon Training$595

Spend a day at our state-of-the-art learning center and deepen your mastery of bourbon alongside one of the industry’s leading distillers. Designed exclusively for Executive Bourbon Stewards, this immersive, advanced-level workshop builds on the foundation of your certification to explore bourbon in greater depth—from production philosophy and flavor development to blending, aging, and sensory evaluation.

Led by Matt Strickland, Head Distiller at Iron City Distilling, this course offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn from a seasoned professional who has worked across the beer, wine, and spirits industries since 2012. Matt brings a wealth of real-world experience from his time leading R&D at Corsair Artisan Distillery, serving as Head Distiller at District Distilling Company and Distillerie Cote Des Saints, and consulting through his firm, DRAM. His expertise in distillation science, sensory analysis, and whiskey innovation makes him the perfect guide for this next-level bourbon experience.

Through guided tastings, discussion, and sensory training, you’ll refine your palate, strengthen your technical knowledge, and gain a fresh perspective on the artistry behind bourbon making. Whether you work in hospitality, craft spirits, or simply want to take your bourbon expertise to the next level, this class will empower you to share your knowledge with confidence and precision.

Key concepts covered

  • Sub-styles of bourbon and the influence of alternative grains and mash bills
  • Whiskey classifications and how they differ from or relate to bourbon
  • The impact of still design and production scale—from column stills to rare three-chamber systems
  • How aging environments, oxidation, and maturation decisions shape flavor
  • The philosophy and artistry behind blending and bottling
  • How to lead engaging and educational bourbon tastings
  • Advanced sensory training and best practices for palate development
  • Barrel selection insights and techniques
  • A deeper look at bourbon history, innovation, and brand evolution

Who This Class Is For

  • Executive Bourbon Stewards seeking to expand their knowledge and experience

  • Hospitality professionals who want to elevate their bourbon expertise and guest engagement

  • Bourbon enthusiasts and club members eager to explore flavor more deeply and share their insight with others

Learn more about Executive Bourbon Steward (In Person)

An advanced, one-day workshop designed exclusively for Executive Bourbon Stewards to deepen their technical understanding, refine their palate, and explore the art and science of bourbon alongside distiller and industry expert Matt Strickland.

Description

Spend a day at our state-of-the-art learning center and deepen your mastery of bourbon alongside one of the industry’s leading distillers. Designed exclusively for Executive Bourbon Stewards, this immersive, advanced-level workshop builds on the foundation of your certification to explore bourbon in greater depth—from production philosophy and flavor development to blending, aging, and sensory evaluation.

Led by Matt Strickland, Head Distiller at Iron City Distilling, this course offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn from a seasoned professional who has worked across the beer, wine, and spirits industries since 2012. Matt brings a wealth of real-world experience from his time leading R&D at Corsair Artisan Distillery, serving as Head Distiller at District Distilling Company and Distillerie Cote Des Saints, and consulting through his firm, DRAM. His expertise in distillation science, sensory analysis, and whiskey innovation makes him the perfect guide for this next-level bourbon experience.

Through guided tastings, discussion, and sensory training, you’ll refine your palate, strengthen your technical knowledge, and gain a fresh perspective on the artistry behind bourbon making. Whether you work in hospitality, craft spirits, or simply want to take your bourbon expertise to the next level, this class will empower you to share your knowledge with confidence and precision.

Key concepts covered

  • Sub-styles of bourbon and the influence of alternative grains and mash bills
  • Whiskey classifications and how they differ from or relate to bourbon
  • The impact of still design and production scale—from column stills to rare three-chamber systems
  • How aging environments, oxidation, and maturation decisions shape flavor
  • The philosophy and artistry behind blending and bottling
  • How to lead engaging and educational bourbon tastings
  • Advanced sensory training and best practices for palate development
  • Barrel selection insights and techniques
  • A deeper look at bourbon history, innovation, and brand evolution

Who This Class Is For

  • Executive Bourbon Stewards seeking to expand their knowledge and experience

  • Hospitality professionals who want to elevate their bourbon expertise and guest engagement

  • Bourbon enthusiasts and club members eager to explore flavor more deeply and share their insight with others

Online Certification

Member Directory

In-Person Certification