Calls for more training among craft distilleries

As the craft distilling industry continues its rapid growth, calls have increased for small-scale spirits producers to “skill-up” and undertake professional training.

IBD president-elect Katherine Smart has emphasised the importance of formal training to craft distillers

According to figures from the Institute of Brewing & Distilling (IBD), revealed at the Gin Guild’s Ginposium 2016 earlier this month, the number of budding distillers attaining formal qualifications has already soared in recent years.

This year, 223 candidates will sit the General Certificate in Distilling – representing an 80% increase since 2010 – while 159 will take the Diploma in Distilling – a 65% hike.

“We welcome the new wave of craft gin makers, who have attracted a wider consumer base and reinvigorated the category,” said the IBD’s president-elect, professor Katherine Smart.

“However, it’s important that these new distillers equip themselves with the right level of technical knowledge to produce a consistently high quality spirit.

“Technical training to the standard set by the IBD’s distilling qualifications will ensure that craft gin makers can distil in the confidence that their product will taste the same, batch after batch.”

The IBD has also launched a new master distiller qualification, aimed at senior managers, which will see the first series of examinations in June 2017.

“Our examinations are designed to be accessible to all candidates, whether they are working for a global spirits company or a small craft distillery,” said Jerry Avis, CEO of the IBD. “The earlier stages of examinations are in multiple choice format, which are still demanding but easier for candidates with English as a second language.

“To succeed in the increasingly crowded spirits market, it is crucial that distillers underpin their passion for the product with knowledge from a trusted source.”