What is the EWA?

The Edinburgh Whisky Academy (EWA) is a Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA) approved centre of learning for Whisky. EWA was specifically created to fill a vital gap in Scotch whisky education and has since gone on to successfully offer courses in Gin and Irish Whiskey also.

The Edinburgh Whisky Academy, is unique in offering brand neutral, certified whisky education specifically for consumer facing whisky professionals and enthusiasts.

The EWA is the only SQA approved centre for whisky education. This means it can deliver, assess, internally verify and certify candidates autonomously according to the SQA course of conduct. The Academy is audited every year.

The EWA currently trains staff from the Macallan, the Johnnie Walker Centre, Whyte & Mackay, Moet Hennessy and Brown Forman amongst other whisky brands.

Why Edinburgh Whisky Academy?

  • Regulated by the SQA (Scottish Qualifications Authority)
  • Trusted and recognised by the industry
  • Specialised qualifications on individual subjects
  • Independent and Impartial learning
  • Clear course and assessment structure

How many people per class?10 – 15 people

Can I retake the tests if I miss the exam or do notYes. There are additional fees for a missed exam or for retaking an exam.

Will there be homework?There will never be mandatory assignments. If you wish to pass the test, it is recommended that you spend time studying before the test.

Will there be tasting?
Yes, all courses will be accompanied by tasting.

Will I get a chance to visit a Distillery?
Every 6 months, Tulleeho will organise distillery visits ex-Bangalore, ex-Delhi and ex-Mumbai (to Goa) for our alumni. Fees for this will either be charged at the time of admission or else when the visit is planned.

Who is my Faculty?
Anand Chintamani, one of India’s most experienced and seasoned Maltsters and spirits experts will be your faculty. Anand also holds the qualification of a Diploma in Single Malts.

What should I bring to the class?All textbooks, spirits, glasses and instruction will be provided. It is suggested you bring something to take notes, a thirsty palate and a curious mind.

Will the courses be conducted in-person or online?
All the 3 certificate courses (Scotch Whisky, Gin and Irish Whiskey), will be conducted primarily in-person. The 2 Diploma Courses (Single Malt and The Art of Tasting Whisky) will be conducted either online with EWA or in-person at Arniston House in Edinburgh.

What are the pass marks for EWA Courses?

Below are the pass marks required along with their corresponding grade. These pass marks apply to all EWA qualifications:

• Pass – 60%
• Merit – 77%
• Distinction – 90%

What will be the duration of both the courses?

  • CISW (Certificate Course in Scotch Whisky)
  • CIG (Certificate Course in Gin)
  • CIIW (Certificate Course in Irish Whiskey)

How do I obtain the additional SQA assessment for the Certificate in Scotch Whisky?

Should you wish to gain the SQA Certificate in Scotch Whisky, in addition to the EWA Certificate, you need to pay £80 and take the SQA Assessment. The material assessed is the same as the Certificate assessment. It does give you an extra, more widely recognised Certificate.