With no clear-cut study program in place, Distillers have forged unique paths into the world of distilling. Among the numerous resources Distillers use to build their knowledge of distilling are learning from a mentor, internships and voluntary work experience.
Apprenticeship or mentorship with a master distiller is by far the best way to learn the trade. Aspirant Distillers may take up internal education opportunities offered by some distilleries and train alongside Master Distillers.
Employers seek applicants willing to learn about a wide variety of spirits categories, familiar with various distilleries and aware of the practices that appeal to their style and sensibility and the ones that do not.
Two- to six-day-long workshops on topics ranging from essential distillation and maturation to spirit specific classes on whiskey, rum, and gin production will get you started on the path of hands-on training.
Since home distillation is illegal in most countries, for those who do not have access to valid internship/mentorship programs, it is better to gain experience by simply walking into a distillery and asking if they are hiring. It’s the best way to get your feet wet and work your way up to the position of Distiller, although you cannot expect anything beyond minimum wages in the beginning. The job is likely to include a lot of tank scrubbing, sweeping and routine tasks.
Individuals with bartending or serving experience may offer to help out in the distillery’s tasting room. Proximity to the distillery may result in being asked to help with other tasks such as packaging and cleaning. Take the initiative and offer to help out in the back whenever there is an opportunity.
Prospective Distillers may also find it helps to join the packaging team in the distillery. Although the packaging is quite monotonous, you may find that your enthusiasm and proficiency will open the doors to other parts of the distillery operations and eventually lead you to your dream role.
Be on the lookout for open requests to participate in bottling events posted on social media by distilleries. Mainly voluntary, such events afford a valuable opportunity to see the distillery and meet the people in charge of hiring.
Since brewing coffee and distilling have a bit of crossover in terms of sensory evaluation, Baristas with significant expertise may get to catch the eye of the folks who do the hiring.
There are cases of individuals with experience in boutique wine retail befriending local distillers and taking the plunge into the currently exploding distilling market. They could add insight into spirits to their existing knowledge of wines. A resume including such a combination and application at the local distillery or brewery may work wonders.
Read about the profession and interview/job shadow experts working in the distillery business to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers. Go to industry gatherings whenever possible. Travel to different corners of the world to learn the practical skills of distilling prevalent in each region.