The Foundation in Distilling provides an introduction to the technical aspects of spirits production. Each step of the spirit production process from raw material intake to packaging is explained in clear and simple terms with numerous illustrations, animations and interactive learning tools.
The Foundation in Distilling has one of the most interactive online courses ever created by the CIBD.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE COURSE
Who is this Qualification for?
The Foundation in Distilling is for people with little or no distilling knowledge who want to join the profession.
It is an excellent introduction to the world of professional distilling. Those supplying raw materials or technical services to the brewing industry could also benefit from the qualification. This is because the knowledge gained from the Foundation in Distilling enables you to better understand the needs of spirit production professionals and to speak their language.
ABOUT THE PROVIDER
The Chartered Institute of Brewers and Distillers (CIBD) was founded in 1886 as the Laboratory Club to improve technical and scientific education and make brewing more accessible. Recognised with a Royal Charter in 2023, the organisation became the CIBD on 1st January 2025, committed to building on its legacy and making its products and services more relevant to the drinks industry.
Its international community spans 90 countries, and its qualifications are seen as the global benchmark, with over 100,000 brewers and distillers qualified since the 1950s. Every year, more than 4,000 professionals take CIBD qualifications to progress their careers and consistently produce high-quality products. With over 3,000 members worldwide, the CIBD fosters knowledge sharing and long-lasting professional relationships.
BEFORE YOU START
Please read the eligibility criteria and ensure you have all the required documents before you begin your application, as once you start the form, you will not be able to exit and return to it.
Upon receipt of the registration code from CIBD, candidates have 90 days to access the content and complete the course.
- Must be 18 or over
- Must be resident of UK with NI number
- Must have UK bank account
- Must be able to provide up to 300 words about why this course will help their career
- No prior work experience needed
As a guideline for approval, applicants must have either less than £2,000 in their current and savings bank accounts or earn less than £30,500 per annum. The assessment will be made on a case-by-case basis taking into consideration exceptions to the above guideline. If you're in doubt about being eligible, please submit the application, and the Develop Team will assess your case.
READY TO APPLY
Please ensure you have read the eligibility criteria and have the required documents at hand.
WE WOULD LIKE TO EXTEND OUR GRATITUDE TO THE OFFICIAL SPONSOR OF THE Foundation in Distilling

