Sydney is set to become home to a new player in international spirits education, with the launch of the International Spirits Academy (ISA) – an initiative aimed at setting a new global benchmark in distilled spirits knowledge and certification.
Established by the team behind the Australian Gin Distillers Association, Australian Gin Awards and Gin Events Pty Ltd, the ISA is a specialist education company designed to complement programs like Master Sommelier and Master Cicerone by offering a four-level spirits certification program culminating in the prestigious title of Master of Eau de Vie.
Courses will begin in Sydney from August 2025, with enrolments opening in May. Its primary role is as a certification body for knowledge and expertise gained through professional experience in a hospitality career. In support of this we will provide in-person: lectures, deductive tastings, and examinations at the four progressive stages of the Master of Eau de Vie program. Expansion plans are already underway for Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, London, and New York.
Directed at hospitality and spirits industry professionals — from cocktail bars and fine dining restaurants to retail, production and hotels — from cocktail bars to fine dining restaurants and hotels — the program is also open to spirits producers and enthusiasts seeking deeper expertise. Students will graduate with a comprehensive understanding of distilled spirits, covering production methods, sensory analysis, service, sales, and international legislation.
“As the global spirits industry matures, the demand for true spirits professionals will only grow,” said Judith Kennedy AM, Founder and Chair of the International Spirits Academy. “Our vision with the International Spirits Academy is to provide a rigorous, independent path to mastery — giving students the knowledge, tasting expertise, and service excellence needed to lead the next generation of hospitality experiences. This Academy is the culmination of everything we’ve worked towards over decades in wine, spirits, and hospitality – and we’re excited to share it with the world.”
The ISA will offer four progressive stages of qualification:
- Stage One – Introductory Eau de Vie Professional: A two-day foundation course, ideal for those starting their careers or seeking a stronger grounding in spirits knowledge.
- Stage Two – Certified Eau de Vie Professional: A recognised industry standard qualification, completed in a half-day session and examination.
- Stage Three – Advanced Eau de Vie Professional: Designed for seasoned professionals to deepen their expertise and tasting capabilities.
- Stage Four – Master of Eau de Vie Diploma: The Academy’s highest level, granting certification for encyclopaedic knowledge and exceptional sensory skill across the spirits industry.
Each student will receive a comprehensive ISA handbook as part of their enrolment, and every stage must be successfully completed before progressing to the next.
Led by a team including industry leaders Bill Lark (Patron), Charles Casben (Education Chair), Dr Sarah Fletcher (Curriculum Writer), and industry leaders like Ned Goodwin MW, Huon Hooke, and Mikey Enright, the Academy is committed to providing the highest quality education grounded in the craftsmanship and integrity of distilled spirits.