Course Description:
This course gives the candidate an in-depth overview of Scotch Whisky. The candidate will explore the history and business of Scotch whisky as well as its legal requirements, before learning the whole production process from raw materials to bottling. Below are the learning outcomes assessed in the internal examination.

As an SQA certified course, candidates are required to take a separate invigilated online assessment in order to achieve the SQA certificate.

1) History of Whisky and Distillation

a) Understand the key dates and developments from the 1500s to current times.
b) Identify the origins of distillation.
c) Understand how the market for whisky has developed throughout the years.
d) Identify the impact of political events on the industry.
e) Identify recent developments within the industry.

2) The Business of Whisky

a) Understand how the Scotch Whisky Industry is protected. Identify labelling, production, and maturation laws.
b) Identify the different categories of Scotch and their ingredients.
c) Identify key issues and concerns facing the industry.
d) Understand new distillery developments taking place over the next few years.

3) Raw Materials

a) Identify the key ingredients used in single malt production and their function: water; peat; yeast; barley. Identify where peat is used in the process and its impact on the final flavour.

4) Production Process

a) Outline the processes involved in malting, milling and mashing.
b) Identify the fermentation process.
c) Identify the products of fermentation.

5) Batch Distillation

a) Understand the batch distillation process:
• Outline the scientific process of distillation.
• Identify the process of reflux and its influence on the spirit.
• Identify how different still shapes affect the flavour profile of whisky. • Recognize the double distillation process used in Scotland.
b) Recognize the operation of a pot still;
• List the functions of a pot still.
• Identify the key elements of a pot still.

6) Maturation

a) Identify the properties of oak.
b) Identify the different types of casks used.
c) Identify flavours imparted on the whisky from the wood.
d) Analyse the maturation reactions:
• The Angel’s Share.
• Effect of wood on congeners.
e) Identify the different warehousing systems in Scotland.

7) Bottling

a) Identify the bottling journey.
b) Outline why distilleries might change the ABV for bottling.
c) Identify the role of chill filtration.

8) Grain Distillation and Blending

a) Grain distillation;
• Identify the different processes for continuous distillation;
• Identify the variety of ingredients used in grain distillation.
b) Understand the process used to produce blended Scotch Whisky; • List the different whiskies used;
• Understand the skills required of a Master Blender.