First-of-its-Kind Program Launches This Fall at Nearest Green Distillery.
Motlow State Community College has officially opened registration for its new Distilled Spirits Program, with core classes beginning in Fall 2025. The program is based at the Nearest Green Distillery, providing students with direct access to a working spirits production environment. This initiative marks the launch of the nation’s first two-year Associate of Applied Science degree in Distilled Spirits.
Hands-On Education in a Historic Setting
The curriculum begins with three foundational courses: Introduction to Distillery Operations, Spirits Production I, and Food and Beverage Regulations. These courses are designed to offer practical and theoretical knowledge essential for careers in whiskey and spirits production. The program is situated in southern middle Tennessee, an area recognized for its ideal distilling conditions due to its limestone-rich water and agricultural resources.
Distillery Operations Course Covers Full Scope of Production
Students in Distillery Operations will learn how to select and manage equipment, maintain production quality, and implement regulatory compliance. Key topics include energy use, production calculations, proofing, blending, barrel wood selection, construction, bottling, and brand development.
Spirits Production Course Highlights Regional Whiskey History
Spirits Production I explores the historical impact of whiskey in the South, detailing diverse distillation methods, maceration, filtration, and finishing techniques that shape flavor profiles. This course aims to place modern production in the context of regional tradition and innovation.
Regulatory Compliance and Safety Take Center Stage
The Food and Beverage Regulations course prepares students to navigate the legal and safety aspects of the industry. Instruction includes topics such as product quality, processing standards, licensing, certifications, and regulatory engagement.
Workforce-Ready Graduates for a Growing Industry
Graduates of the program will earn a terminal associate degree, preparing them for immediate entry into the spirits industry without requiring a four-year degree. Motlow State’s location across 11 counties in Tennessee places students in proximity to a range of distilling opportunities.
Image Credit: Uncle Nearest / Nearest Green Distillery
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