About
About Me
Although originally from the hometown of Four Roses and Wild Turkey, my journey into distilled spirits began later in life. As a college student in Colorado Springs during the 90’s, I was in the middle of the microbrew boom that brought a new beer company to the forefront almost weekly. Upon graduation, I had the opportunity to travel the world in the Air Force and sampled the local beers across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
It wasn’t until a decade later that I started to appreciate Tequila, all forms of Whiskey, as well as Gin and Brandy. With a background in engineering and finance, I’m driven to learn about the how and why. I now use that passion to become more than just a drinker of spirits, but attempt to understand the history, artistry, and people that go into crafting each bottle.
What to Expect
You will be guided through the history, base materials, production methods, and aging requirements of the spirit(s) in the flight. Common misconceptions will be dispelled and you’ll gain a clearer understanding of what makes one spirit similar or different from another to enhance a greater appreciation of the craft.
The best part is the tasting. Taking notes and sharing your detected aromas and flavors of each dram with the group always adds to the experience. It is very informal and questions are highly encouraged throughout.
Certifications
Certified Specialist of Spirits
The Certified Specialist of Spirits (CSS) Exam is a rigorous exam, which tests a candidate’s spirits knowledge and mastery of key elements within the world of distillation and spirits production. This certification is widely recognized and regarded by the international wine and spirits industry.
Certified Bourbon Steward
The Certified Bourbon Steward membership is a self-study program for bourbon enthusiasts from all walks of life. This in-depth program is designed so that once you’re a Bourbon Steward, you’ll be able to discuss America’s native spirit both confidently and accurately, as well as be able to make recommendations to friends, family, and others based on their individual taste and preferences.
Certified Scotch Professional
CWM’s challenging Level I certifications are the respected benchmark in professional level Scotch and Bourbon expertise. The Level I program allows candidates to focus either on Scotch or Bourbon—becoming knowledgeable in the great single malts of Scotland, or in the important grain spirits of the United States.
Certificates in Gin & Irish Whiskey
Edinburgh Whisky Academy
A self-study program that covers the long history and business of Irish whiskey and Gin before covering how differing production methods across the categories produce different flavors in the finished product, modern innovations, and an all-important sensory analysis.
Conocedor de Tequila (Level 2)
By completing this exam, participants prove that they have a detailed understanding about the denomination of origin of tequila, tequila production and the structure and role of the NOM system. The course covers everything from advanced classification, tequila definitions, agave farming practices, tequila production, bottling, waste management, filtration and blending.
Level 3 Award in Wines (Candidate) / Level 2 Certified
This qualification provides a detailed understanding of grape growing, winemaking, international and regionally important grape varieties, wine label interpretation from the main wine-producing regions of the world, basic guidance on appropriate selection and service, as well an understanding of the principles of wine tasting and evaluation.
Founder & Lead Educator
Local group of distilled spirits enthusiasts exploring and tasting a diverse selection of whiskies and distilled spirits. Each gathering features expert-led discussions on the history, production, and unique characteristics of different spirits, followed by group tastings to detect and compare aromas and flavors, culminating in an Annual Blind Tasting Challenge that tests your palate with six standout samples from the year.