Barrel Strength Talent: American Single Malt Certificate Comes to New York
This April Barrel Strength Talent will deliver the first in-person Certificate in American Single Malt Whiskey in New York, taught by EWA Approved Course Provider Lia Niskanen and supported by the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC).
Hosted at the historic Kings County Distillery (above) in Brooklyn - New York City’s oldest distillery since Prohibition - this two-day, in-person course (13–14 April 2026) offers a timely opportunity to explore one of the most significant developments in modern American whiskey.
For the first time in more than 50 years, the US government has formally recognised a new whiskey category: American Single Malt Whiskey. The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau’s landmark ruling establishes a legal definition that both protects the integrity of single malt globally and allows room for American innovation. For producers, professionals and engaged enthusiasts alike, this marks the beginning of an entirely new chapter.
Our Certificate in American Single Malt Whiskey is designed to place candidates at the heart of that conversation. Delivered at a working craft distillery, the course combines structured learning with on-site production context, expert-led discussions and guided sensory evaluation, which forms a core part of each day’s programme.
Participants will explore:
- The origins and evolution of American single malt
- The new legal definition and what it does - and doesn’t - change for producers
- How US distilleries are positioning themselves within the category
- Growth forecasts and market confidence, with American single malt widely recognised as a rare bright spot in a shifting spirits landscape
The course is led by Lia Niskanen, an experienced whiskey educator, speaker and advocate based in Brooklyn. Lia holds an Diploma in Single Malt Whisky from the Edinburgh Whisky Academy and delivers EWA certifications as a Silver, Level 2 Approved Course Provider in New York. Her work is known for combining rigorous education with engaging storytelling, drawing on her background in distillery tours, events and brand consultancy.
As American single malt steps onto the global stage, education and advocacy will be key to shaping its future. This New York course offers candidates the chance to gain formal certification, deepen their understanding and take part in defining a category at a pivotal moment in its history.
More information & booking details here.
