The Diploma in Single Malt Whisky is Coming to Madrid
We are thrilled to announce a special collaboration between two of our Approved Course Providers, Joe Cabassa of Academia de Whisky and Samantha De Noia of 9 Smoking Barrels. This partnership brings our flagship qualification, the Diploma in Single Malt Whisky, to the vibrant city of Madrid for an exclusive in-person experience over two days (15 & 16 February 2025).
Joe Cabassa is a whisky educator and expert based in Puerto Rico. He is an Approved Course Provider who can teach our advanced Level 2 Diploma in Single Malt Whisky and Level 1 Certificate courses. Known for his passion for spreading whisky knowledge across Spanish-speaking audiences, he will travel to Spain to lead the class.
[L-R] Ian McKerrow, Joe Cabassa, Kirsty McKerrow, Vic Cameron. Joe earned the Advanced Diploma - pictured - in October 2024, allowing him to teach the Level 2 Diploma in Single Malt Whisky.
Joe shared his excitement: "It’s an absolute honour to be able to teach the Diploma in Single Malt Whisky in Madrid. Spain has a long-standing love for Scotch whisky and I’m delighted to share my knowledge and passion as an EWA Educator with such an enthusiastic audience. This is going to be an unforgettable experience!"
Based in Madrid, Samantha De Noia is a whisky educator and Approved Course Provider for our Level 1 Certificate courses. She is dedicated to challenging stereotypes in whisky and offers engaging and accessible learning experiences.

Samantha De Noia - pictured - is an Approved Course Provider. She has taught our Level 1 Certificate courses since 2023.
She said: “Bringing Joe to Madrid for this diploma is an absolute game-changer. His knowledge? Legendary. His teaching? So captivating, you’ll forget you’re in a classroom. And his ability to bring whisky to life? Pure magic. This isn’t just a whisky course, it’s a full-on experience. I couldn’t be more thrilled to have him here, sharing his passion with whisky lovers in Spain. Get ready to dive deep, push your palate to new limits and walk away with a whole new perspective on single malt.”
Kirsty McKerrow, our Founder and Managing Director, also commented on the partnership: "At Edinburgh Whisky Academy, we’re passionate about advancing whisky education on a global scale. Seeing our Approved Course Providers collaborate in such meaningful ways is a testament to the shared commitment to excellence and passion for whisky. I couldn’t be prouder to facilitate opportunities like this."
📍 Madrid, Spain
📅 15 & 16 February 2025
🎟 Secure your spot here.
This immersive course is an unmissable opportunity to earn a prestigious SQA-Certified Diploma, connect with like-minded whisky enthusiasts and gain insights from two leading figures in whisky education.
Let’s raise a glass to collaboration, education and the love of whisky! 🥃