Filson Bourbon Academy

The Filson Bourbon Academy is an eight-hour course that will give workers in the hospitality industry a firm background in Kentucky’s signature spirit.

At the completion of the Academy, students who are S.T.A.R. certified will earn a certificate making them an “Official Bartender/Server of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®. The Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the title sponsor of the Academy, which will feature KDA member brands. Anyone who is not S.T.A.R. certified with the Kentucky Alcohol Beverage Control is welcome to complete the classes, but will not receive the official certificate.

Classes will take place at the Filson Historical Society in Louisville from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. over four consecutive Monday nights. The first hour will be devoted to the history of distilling in Kentucky, followed by an hour of instruction in bourbon tasting.

• Monday, September 12— Early distillers and the birth of Bourbon
• Monday, September 19 — Bourbon and the Industrial Revolution
• Monday, September 26 — The Early 20th Century and Prohibition
• Monday, October 3 — Post-Prohibition and the Modern Era of Bourbon

In the first week, the tasting portion of the class will start with “Tasting Bourbon,” covering glassware, tasting terms and descriptors.
The second will feature “American whiskey” and will review traditional and wheated bourbons, rye whiskey, Tennessee whiskey and corn whiskey.
The third week will review premium bourbon styles such as single barrel, small batch and extra-aged bourbons.
Students will be tested in the fourth and final week by sampling two different unknown whiskeys and then asked to determine age, proof, type and style.

Cost for the Academy is $100 and class size is limited. For reservations, please contact the Filson Historical Society at 502-635-5083. All proceeds benefit The Filson Historical Society.
Location address: Filson Historic Society, 1310 S. Third Street, Louisville, KY 40208