| Duration: | Online Selfstudy: The expected study and preparation time for this exam is between 60 and 90 hours, depending on prior experience. |
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| Includes: | Online: Digital Book, Online Exam & Digital Certificate. |
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The roots of American whiskey culture, from the Whiskey Rebellion to the rise of Mount Vernon Distillery
The impact of Prohibition and its lasting influence on the bourbon industry
The emergence of small batch and craft production, and bourbon’s resurgence as a global premium spirit
Deep dive into key grains: corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley
The importance of water sources in bourbon production
The sour mash process and its impact on consistency and flavor
Detailed look at distillation, including stripping runs and spirit cuts
Maturation in new charred oak barrels, charring levels, vatting, and barrel rotation
Filtration techniques, including chill filtering and non-chill options
Proofing and bottling considerations that shape the final product
Understanding age statements and their legal definitions
The distinction between straight bourbon, blended bourbon, and American whiskey
An overview of bourbon naming protections, both domestic and international
Reading production statements and what they reveal about quality and process
Regional influences on flavor and style
Deep dive into Kentucky bourbon: the heartland of America’s whiskey heritage
Understanding Tennessee whiskey and the Lincoln County Process
Brief insights into Canadian whisky and its role in the North American whiskey landscape
Overview of ~100 active distilleries in Kentucky
Explore the house styles and flavor signatures of major producers
Understand how location, production philosophy, and aging techniques influence the final spirit
The Certified Bourbon Professional (CBP) course is designed for those who are ready to move beyond casual appreciation and into expert-level knowledge of America’s native spirit. Whether you're working in hospitality or simply passionate about bourbon, this course gives you the tools to speak, serve, and taste bourbon with confidence.
Ideal for:
Bartenders, bar managers, and sommeliers looking to strengthen their whiskey knowledge
Spirits educators, trainers, and sales professionals building credibility in the American whiskey category
Retail staff and spirits buyers curating selections and advising customers
Distillery employees and tour guides seeking formal education and structure
Whiskey collectors, connoisseurs, and enthusiasts wanting to deepen their understanding
No prior certification is required—just curiosity, commitment, and a love for bourbon. If you're serious about spirits, this course is your next step.
The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes precisely one hour, candidates must score at least 75% to pass. The exam may be taken online, independent of your actual locations. No study materials or other persons may be in the room during the exam.
Upon successful completion of the course and final exam, participants will earn the prestigious Certified Bourbon Professional (CBP) designation—Level 1 in the internationally recognized Master of Whiskey™ program.
This certification confirms your understanding of:
The history and heritage of American whiskey
Modern bourbon production methods and terminology
Regulatory standards and labeling laws
Regional styles and distillery profiles
Professional sensory analysis and structured bourbon tasting
What’s included:
Official digital certificate and downloadable credential
Access to exclusive Master of Whiskey™ network and resources
Eligibility to advance to Level 2: Certified Whiskey Specialist (CWS)
With its rigorous content and respected status, the CBP certification is a valuable credential for professionals across hospitality, retail, education, and spirits production—and a mark of credibility for any serious bourbon enthusiast.
Classroom: $595
