Academy Logo ACADEMY OF SPIRITS AND FINE SERVICE SWS Logo

"Welcome to the Academy of Spirits and Fine Service. Together we will raise the bar in Illinois!"
  –Bridget Albert, Mixologist.

Welcome to the Academy of Spirits and Fine Service. This program is designed for Beverage Managers, Bartenders and Restaurant personnel who want to upgrade their knowledge and skills in bar operations.

This is a 12-week program conducted once a week for a two-hour session. The Academy provides working product knowledge on all types of alcoholic beverages in the United States and throughout the world. This hands-on program allows participants to recreate “Prohibition Era Classic Cocktails” and create new, trendy cocktails while focusing on the use of simple garnishes that enhance the esthetics of the drink. Each participant will be armed with the knowledge and awareness of responsible consumption.  

Upon successful completion of the Academy, graduates may apply for United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG) membership. The Academy of Spirits and Fine Service is the foundation for the bright future of mixology.

Program Structure    Program Outline   
This is a 12-week program conducted
once a week for a two-hour session.  
Schedule:
Monday 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM  
Location:
Southern Wine & Spirits - Signature Division  
216 N. Jefferson, Suite 200  
Chicago, IL 60661  
Main Phone Number: 630.685.3000  
 
Participants must be at least 21 years old. 
Contact:
Bridget Albert  
300 E Crossroads Parkway
Bolingbrook, IL 60440  
Phone: 630.685.3000  
 
Upon successful completion of this course, the participant will be able to: 
» Outline the history and origins of alcoholic beverages.
» Explain the production of each individual product and its own regulatory laws.  
» Interpret the label of the product.  
» Learn the sensory evaluation and the tasting techniques.  
» Demonstrate the proper serving techniques for alcoholic beverages.  
» Outline the history of cocktails and their influence on the American culture.  
» Join the official International Bartenders’ Association (I.B.A.) recognized worldwide.  
» Know the basics of cocktail mixology, essential rules and tools to create a perfect cocktail according to I.B.A. standards.  
» Learn the basics of how to match various cocktails with food. In a culinary world where different cultures blend harmoniously together, we lay foundations of how to serve fine spirits and mixed drinks as companions throughout the meal for the joy of the palate and the senses!