Edinburgh Whiskey Academy – Certification in American Single Malt Whiskey

Explore America’s newest whiskey category and its bold, innovative spirit.

The Certificate in American Single Malt Whiskey is the world’s first independently certified qualification dedicated to this dynamic and fast-growing category. Delivered 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.

• January 31st (11am-4pm) & February 1st (11am-4pm)
• April 18th (11am-4pm) & April 19th (11am-4pm)

Guided by industry expert, Devin Ershow, and enriched by the perspective of the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission, 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.
• 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).

Who is it for?

This course is ideal for whiskey enthusiasts, industry professionals, and drinks educators who want to understand and confidently communicate one of the most exciting new chapters in American whiskey.

What you’ll gain.

Graduates leave with an internationally recognized qualification, deeper knowledge of this pioneering style, and the ability to share the American Single Malt story with authority.

Know Your Instructor.

Devin Ershow is Head Mixologist at Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey and Co-Founder of American Mash & Grain. With experience in distilling, blending, and hospitality at leading U.S. distilleries, he brings a wealth of practical knowledge to the classroom. He holds multiple industry certifications, including Executive Bourbon Steward, WSET Level 2 in Spirits (Distinction), Certified Bourbon & Scotch Professional, and the Diploma in Scotch Whisky from the Edinburgh Whisky Academy.