Distilling class filled to capacity
Marchal Tyler of Yakima tests a batch of bing cherry brandy during a distilling class in Moses Lake Friday.
MOSES LAKE - Students from around the globe studied the art of distilling in Moses Lake.
Organizer Allan Peterson said 33 students learned about distilling alcoholic beverages during the week-long course at Big Bend Community College.
The history and science of distilling as well as the legalities and compliance aspects of the business, planning and marketing are all covered during the $995 class.
Peterson said a 2008 law mandated that distillers in Washington must ensure that at least 50 percent of their materials are from within the state.
"There are 32 distilleries in the state," Peterson said.
He compared that number to the more than 700 wineries in Washington.
"Craft distilling is growing all over the country," he added.
Peterson said there were three distilleries opened by students of the first class he and Rusty Figgins helped organize with another two possibly on the way to opening.
More distilling classes are planned for June and another in September.
For more information, call Big Bend Community College at 509-793-2374.