School spirits: UNA students have new recipes on tap for annual challenge

FLORENCE – There’s always something brewing with students in UNA’s Jeff Eubanks Culinary Arts Management and Digital Media programs.

Partnering with Singin’ River Brewery, the students have uncorked new recipes for today’s annual brew challenge at the East College Street brewery.  

“Our students have again done a great job of researching various recipes and brewing some very exciting beers for our brew challenge,” said Einar Gudmundsson, associate professor in the culinary program. “It is always wonderful to see the creativity and enthusiasm from our students, and we look forward to share their work to the guests of Singin’ River Brewery.

“I am very thankful for our partnership with Singin’ River Brewery as they have shared their expertise with our Culinary Arts Management students about the science and process of fermentation.”  

As part of the challenge, the students in the wine, beer, and spirits class were placed in three teams, and each team was tasked with researching beer recipes and styles, and to meet with the Singin’ River brewer  to make their beers from scratch.

The students measured the grains, made the wort, added hops and the yeast, and prepared the brew for fermentation. Later, the students checked the gravity of the beers and, finally, they kegged the beverage in preparation for serving to customers at Singin’ River.  

The kick-off event will include three beers – Razz ‘n’ Jazz, Leo’s Luau, and Berried in Mintopia. It will be the first time for the public to sample the brews as well as rate them based on their styles and preference.

Customers will also have an opportunity to view the students’ marketing designs and presentations via a QR code. The event is 5-7 p.m. and Odette will have food available for purchase.