Recently, students of the MGLuxM Batch 14 and MScHBL Batch 2 programs had the opportunity to attend an exclusive masterclass on premium distilled spirits, presented by Neeraj Pandit from Paul John Distillery.
During the session, Neeraj shared his extensive knowledge of global spirit varieties and described the intricate distillation processes. He provided a comprehensive overview of the fundamental processes involved in the making, which are essential for achieving the exquisite taste and luxury associated with high-quality spirits.
Moreover, he discussed the significant production costs involved in crafting these premium beverages and gave details on the varied types of spirits produced worldwide, specifying how regional differences and production techniques impart distinct characteristics to each variant. His thorough explanation of the distillation processes highlighted the critical stages that impact the flavour and overall quality.
A particularly engaging segment of the masterclass was the discussion on single-grain malted barley spirits, highlighting its aging process in oak casks for three years, and the transformation of germinating barley into malted barley.
The masterclass also explored the importance of cask selection, giving emphasis to the preference for Bourbon casks from America and the use of hogshead and puncheon casks from Spain and Portugal.
In conclusion, this session provided an enriching experience for the students, offering insights into the craftsmanship and nuances of premium distilled spirits.