Yavapai College is noteworthy for its thriving wine program where many local wine makers have been trained. A new offering for the college making its debut this December is a craft distilling workshop where students will learn how to make an agave-based spirit similar to tequila, a gin and a brandy. The class is non-credit and is open to non-students. This is the first time this class has ever been taught. “It’s common that wineries and distilleries can be partnered,” says Michael Pierce, viticulture and enology director at Yavapai College Verde Campus, on the left in the photo above, who will be teaching the workshop. “It’s just another facet of the craft beverage industry that is up and coming in Arizona.” The class is intended to educate. There won’t be any anxiety-provoking tests.
“This is meant to be just an interesting thing. For the first time, there will be plenty to learn. I think we’re going to be strong on the hands-on component, which is great. Having taught winemaking now for nine years, that’s where I know students really thrive,” says Michael. Here’s an overview of what to expect: The college is home to a brewery featuring two small stills. Class will kick off with students cleaning the stills. Next, students will move the mash inside and heat it up. The mash – the base liquid made out of grain, water and yeast fermented to make alcohol – is brought to a boil. This can take 90 minutes to two hours. While the mash is heating up, Michael will discuss what they’re making, the science of distillation and the different ways to craft spirits. The class will have both a discussion and a visual portion to cater to individuals’ different learning styles. The condenser will then cool. Students will then measure the volume and proof of alcohol that comes off using a tool called a hydrometer. They can also assess the aromatics and mouthfeel of the products they’re creating. If you’re interested in making your own spirits, this class is for you.
“Those that cook or garden. Those that grow from the Earth. Those are the type of people who like to create things with their own hands, and I think craft distilling falls into that same category,” says Michael. − Teresa K. Traverse
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