Whisky Ambassador ™

What's Covered

Origins of Whisky: From Monks to Multinationals

Uncover the fascinating history of whisky, with a deep dive into how, when, and where it all began. Explore the evolution of Scotch whisky—from illicit stills in the Highlands to a billion-dollar global industry—and how it became a cultural symbol and economic powerhouse.

The Economic & Global Impact of Scotch Whisky

Examine whisky’s role as one of Scotland’s leading exports, its influence on global spirits markets, and the key international players driving innovation and demand. Understand whisky not just as a drink—but as an industry.

From Grain to Glass: How Whisky Is Made

Explore the full production process:

Raw materials: malted barley, grain, water, and yeast

Mashing, fermentation, and distillation (pot still vs. column still)

Ageing: barrel types, warehouse environment, and maturation laws

Cask finishes, single malts, blends, and grain whiskies
Gain insight into what makes each style unique.

Scotch Whisky Regions & Styles

Learn to distinguish Scotland’s whisky-producing regions—Highlands, Lowlands, Islay, Speyside, and Campbeltown—and how terroir, tradition, and distillation techniques define regional character and flavor profiles.

The Art of Nosing & Tasting

Develop professional tasting skills using a structured sensory approach. Explore aroma, mouthfeel, flavor, and finish. Learn to identify classic notes like peat, spice, oak, vanilla, smoke, and sherry influence across multiple styles.

Mixers, Cocktails & Modern Whisky Culture

Explore whisky’s role in contemporary mixology—from elegant highballs to complex stirred classics. Learn the importance of serve temperature, dilution, and glassware, plus how to make whisky more approachable for modern drinkers.

Sales & Customer Service

Understand how to confidently recommend and sell whisky based on customer preferences. Learn how to upsell without pretension and create memorable guest experiences. Perfect for retail, hospitality, and brand advocacy professionals.

Global Whisky: Beyond Scotland

Broaden your knowledge with an introduction to world whiskies:

Irish and American traditions

Japanese precision and craftsmanship

Emerging regions like India, Australia, Taiwan, and beyond
Compare production methods, regulations, and signature styles.

Responsible Enjoyment: Drink Less, Drink Better

Promote mindful drinking, premium choices, and appreciation over consumption. Understand how quality, education, and storytelling elevate the whisky experience.

Assessment & Certification

Put your knowledge to the test with a practical nosing & tasting assessment and a written exam. Successful candidates receive official Whisky Ambassador certification, recognized across the industry.

Tasting Samples

Experience whisky like never before with a guided tasting of 12 carefully selected expressions representing the rich diversity of this legendary spirit. From peaty Islay malts to smooth Lowland drams, and bold American bourbons to elegant Japanese whiskies—each pour is chosen to highlight a specific style, region, or production technique.

You'll explore:

Single Malts vs. Blended Whiskies

Regional Scotch Profiles – Islay smoke, Speyside sweetness, Highland depth

Cask Influence – ex-bourbon, sherry, and experimental finishes

International Icons – taste how Japan, the US, and other world players bring their own signature to whisky

Learn to assess aroma, flavor, mouthfeel, and finish using a structured tasting method, and leave with a trained palate and a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every bottle.

Who Should Attend

This course is ideal for bartenders, sommeliers, F&B professionals, retail staff, and passionate whisky lovers looking to elevate their knowledge and tasting skills. Whether you’re recommending drams to customers, curating a spirits list, or just tired of nodding politely when someone says “peaty,” this is your chance to speak whisky with confidence. No experience required—just curiosity, a nose for nuance, and a respect for the water of life.

Assessment

The exam takes place in the last session of the course. The exam consists of 30 multiple choice questions to be completed in 45 minutes and to blind taste 4 different Whiskies. To pass you must correctly answer 70% of the questions. This qualification is BIIAB regulated.

Certification

Certified Gin Ambassador™

This qualification is BIIAB regulated.

Course Cost:

Classroom: $295 

Online: $195

What’s Next:

Certified Rum Amabassdor™, inteternationaly UK certifved via CPD & & WIRSPA, ACR!