CUL 304 Intro to Distilled Spirits
In this introduction to spirits, students will study the practical and contextual backgrounds and applications of distilled spirits. On the practical side, they’ll learn about ingredients, the fermentation and distillation processes and how to properly taste, evaluate and serve spirits. On the contextual side, they’ll explore the major categories of spirits and their origin, including history, labor, marketing, scale, terroir, protected geographic status, spirits tourism (where, why and how), as well as myths, misconceptions, folklore, and rituals. The Introduction to Cocktails section, will develop knowledge around cocktail history, basics of building a cocktail (what are the different categories, shaking vs. stirring, etc.), conceptualizing flavor combinations, glassware, ice, and etiquette. The course will require sensory evaluations, and a virtual or in-person visit to a distillery for a final project. Students will draw from readings and videotaped tours, lessons and live demonstrations from diverse subject matter experts.
Must be 21 years of age to enroll.