About Spirited Endeavors

It all began in 1998 with a troop of fellows called Captain Stewart’s Company, 42nd Highland Regiment of Foot.  We were an “edutainment” group of reenactors portraying Scots in the British infantry during The Seven Years War (also known as the French and Indian War), specifically fall of 1759.  After a day of wrangling and educating masses of students about the woes of war during the 18th century, it had become a tradition to retire around our fire and share a bottle of “the Water of Life.”  This experience awakened a passion for the history, comradery, and significance of this magical spirit called Whisky. 

After two decades of exploration, obsession, and “research” (sharing and presenting to anyone who would listen), I developed enough skill and knowledge to take my presentations public. For two seasons at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival, I had the opportunity to bring that experience to a sharper point.  It had the grand effect of bringing my specific style of brand neutral narrative to a larger audience.  Soon after, I felt the need to seek further education and accreditation with the goal of bringing my unique style to an even larger audience.  This is when I found the Edinburgh Whisky Academy. 

Based in Edinburgh, Scotland – the EWA is an SQA (Scottish Qualification Authority) certified institution specializing in spirits education for drinks industry professionals and enthusiasts alike.  In May of 2023, I became a candidate for the Diploma in Single Malt Whisky.  After achieving high marks on my exam, I was offered a position as one EWA’s Certified and Approved Course Providers – giving me the authority to teach courses under their umbrella.  I earned my accreditations to teach the certification levels for Scotch Whisky, Irish Whiskey, American Single Malt Whiskey, Gin, and Sensory Appreciation. 

Immediately following this milestone, the EWA invited me back to Scotland (as a Course Provider) to pilot a newly designed course – The Advanced Diploma in Scotch and Distillation.  A small group of course providers from around the world were gathered for a five day intense exploration including multiple industry lecturers, field trips, and sensory experiments culminating in an essay exam.  With the achievement of this certification and the acceptance of the whisky community, I have earned the confidence and knowledge – along with reinforcing my passion – to bring Spirited Endeavors to life.