Cask Trade x The Drinks Trust - New Whisky Masterclass Series

Cask Trade and The Drinks Trust announce a new whisky masterclass series, launched in collaboration with The Drinks Trust's DEVELOP programme.

Cask Trade

Cask Trade x The Drinks Trust

Cask Trade, in collaboration with The Drinks Trust, is proud to announce the launch of a Whisky Masterclass as part of DEVELOP — a new, free educational programme designed to deepen whisky knowledge and elevate service standards across the drinks and hospitality industry. 

Tailored for hospitality professionals, bartenders, and anyone working within the drinks trade, the DEVELOP Whisky Masterclass offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of cask strength, single malt whisky, a category often less understood but growing in popularity. 

This in-depth workshop is aimed particularly at those who may not have had access to specialist training. It supports career development by empowering participants with the knowledge and confidence to speak passionately and professionally about whisky, ultimately enhancing the customer experience. 

Cask Strength Whisky Masterclass

The workshop aims to elevate participants knowledge about single malt cask strength whisky through hands on tasting, regional education, and flavour identification.

Workshop Highlights:

  • The key differences between cask strength and commercial whiskies (single malt vs blends)
  • How to taste and evaluate whisky like an expert, exploring the nose, palate, and finish across multiple drams provided
  • Regional styles, flavour profiles, and the role of maturation and cask types
  • Practical knowledge to use on the floor, behind the bar, or in sales and service roles 

Elevating the Industry Through Education

The Drinks Trust DEVELOP offers practical support to individuals experiencing financial hardship, helping them to begin and sustain a long-term career in the hospitality industry. Launched in early 2022, the programme represents a unique, full-service offering combining bursaries, accredited training, and job placement support to cultivate a more skilled, inclusive workforce. 

DEVELOP has a huge range of courses to choose from, with Cask Trade's Whisky Masterclass being the first Cask Strength Whisky focussed programme on offer.

Simon Aron, Founder and Director of Cask Trade, commented: “A masterclass on single malt whisky will open a multitude of opportunities for anyone in the drinks trade looking to gain knowledge and confidence when talking about the water of life. Education, I believe, is the best way to support and give back to the drinks industry. At Cask Trade, we are committed to teaching anyone interested about the world of single malt whisky. In partnership with The Drinks Trust, we can make a difference.” 

Nicola Burston, CEO of The Drinks Trust, added: "On behalf of The Drinks Trust, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Cask Trade for hosting such an insightful and exclusive whisky workshop. At a time when training and educational opportunities are increasingly scarce across our industry, initiatives like this are not only welcome but vital. It was especially meaningful to see this opportunity made available to individuals who may not otherwise have access to such high-quality learning experiences. Cask Trade’s commitment to sharing knowledge and nurturing talent within the drinks industry community is truly commendable, and we are incredibly grateful for your continued support." 

Sign Up Today

To learn more and apply for the DEVELOP Whisky Masterclass, visit the application page here. 

Alternatively, register with Cask Trade today to speak to cask whisky experts. From cask ownership through to personalised bottling, the Cask Trade team can tailor your whisky journey.