Brew Club Class with Aaron McClain at the Brewing and Distilling Center, Knoxville, January 2022
Brew Club Class with Aaron McClain at the Brewing and Distilling Center, Knoxville, January 2022
The Brewing and Distilling Center, located just off Broadway at 130 Bearden Place, offers certification courses in brewing and distilling. Since 2017, Todd White has operated the business at its current location. (You can see the full back story of his incredible journey, here.) The center has continually evolved, purchasing its own equipment, offering online classes, and more.
Brew Club Class with Aaron McClain at the Brewing and Distilling Center, Knoxville, January 2022Brew Club Class with Aaron McClain at the Brewing and Distilling Center, Knoxville, January 2022
The latest twist in the offerings is a response to the fact that many people are interested in brewing or distilling, but aren’t looking to start a new career. The thirteen-week standard course leading to certification may require more time and money than some enthusiasts are ready to spend. With the serious hobbyest or enthusiast in mind, the center recently offered its first Brew Club Class.
The first of the series was led by Aaron McClain of Crafty Bastard Brewing. His focus for the evening was on hops and IPAs. The group was able to pick his brain with questions, spend some time brewing, some time in the class room, and, of course, a little time sampling. The small class size (this one was sold out at around ten or a dozen), makes for an intimate experience with professional brewers.
Brew Club Class with Aaron McClain at the Brewing and Distilling Center, Knoxville, January 2022Brew Club Class with Aaron McClain at the Brewing and Distilling Center, Knoxville, January 2022
The courses are designed for anyone with a strong interest in brewing, regardless of experience level. While participants sample beers as a part of the class, they get to pick up their own creation a few weeks after the class. The class uses the high-end equipment on site to get a hands-on experience. Everything is set up before hand and everything is cleaned up afterward. A catered meal is also provided. (It was from Sweet-Ps. The total package runs $150 for the three hour class.
Next up in the series, Marty Velas, brewer and owner of Fanatic Brewing will take the helm on March 24 from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Tickets should be available right away, and you’ll find them here when they are.
