Moonshine University, the Louisville distilling school that has turned thousands of curious drinkers into industry pros and hospitality workers, is set to close at the end of 2026 after a 14-year run. The operator says in-person classes will continue through the end of 2026, while online courses will be available for purchase and completion only until December 10, 2026, as it figures out what comes next.
According to the Louisville Courier-Journal, Flavorman, the beverage-development company that created Moonshine University, announced in a press release that the program will officially conclude operations on December 31, 2026. The release also said Moonshine University will honor its scheduled commitments and keep course registrations open through the remainder of 2026.
A 14-Year Run With Global Reach
Since opening in 2013, the campus says it has hosted 337 courses and more than 15,000 attendees, helping launch nearly 300 distilleries and attracting students from all 50 states, four U.S. territories and 49 countries. Those numbers come from the company announcement, as reported by Whiskey Reviewer, and underscore just how far a Louisville classroom managed to project its influence.
Classes Still Pouring Through 2026
For now, it is business as usual. Moonshine University’s course calendar still lists multi-day distiller trainings, sensory workshops and barrel-aging sessions into the fall, each with specific registration windows and closing dates. Prospective students and industry veterans alike can review schedules and sign up via Moonshine University’s course page.
Flavorman Hunts For New Academic Partners
Flavorman says it is exploring ways to fold Moonshine University’s curriculum into established trade programs so the material can live on even after the campus shuts its doors. Founder David Dafoe thanked students and partners, calling it “an honor” to have worked with the community as the company charts its next chapter, according to Whiskey Reviewer.
Spirits Industry Headwinds In The Background
The timing of the announcement comes as the wider spirits industry continues to wrestle with inventory and demand shifts that have prompted some producers to scale back and even pause operations. MGP Ingredients temporarily idled distilling at two Kentucky facilities earlier this year, an action detailed by Louisville Business First and in MGP’s investor filings (MGP).
What Students And Local Distillers Need To Know
Flavorman says scheduled in-person classes and the Stave & Thief Society’s bourbon stewardship programs will continue through the wind-down period, and the company is urging students and partners to keep an eye on its official channels for updates. Registrants are being directed to check the Stave & Thief course listings and Moonshine University’s calendar for program-specific policies and deadlines.
