In partnership with Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum, we’re thrilled to present an extraordinary opportunity to elevate your craft and deepen your connection to Jamaican culture, cuisine, and rum craftsmanship.
This program honors the legendary Dr. Joy Spence, the first and longest-tenured female master blender. Join us as we celebrate her legacy and gain invaluable insights into the art of rum.
What’s in it for you?
- Participate in a five-course virtual series led by the brightest minds in the rum world, including a capstone session with Dr. Joy Spence herself.
- April 1st - History of Rum with Ian Burrell
- April 15th - Classic Rum Cocktails and Flavor Pairings - Sam Miller
- April 29th - Jamaican Cuisine, history, and Flavors - Michael Twitty
- May 13th - "Immersive Experience" bars, the Mai Tai, and Tropical Cocktails - Chockie Tom
- May 27th - Appleton history, the Brand, and Blending - Joy Spence
- Showcase your skills and knowledge in a test following the virtual series for a chance to be selected as the inaugural class of Dr. Joy Spence Bartender Fellows.
- Be among the 20 top-scoring students to earn an all-expenses-paid immersion experience at the Appleton Estate Distillery in Jamaica.
- Score some awesome swag for participating!
The Fellowship Experience:
Immerse yourself in the world of Jamaican rum. Learn from award-winning industry-leading experts the history of Rum, Jamaican flavors, rum mixology techniques, and leading rum bar programs. You may even get the chance to spend unprecedented time with the Appleton Estate team and dive deep into Appleton Estate’s rich history, all while learning directly from Dr. Joy Spence.
Ready to level up your rum game?
Apply now by Monday, March 17th, 2025, for your chance to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime program.Let’s craft with Joy and raise the bar to something extraordinary.
Completing the application does not guarantee acceptance. For your application to be considered, you must meet the eligibility requirements below:
- At Least 21 years of age
- USA Resident
- Have a valid US Passport
- Currently employed as a bartender, bar manager, barback or bar owner
- Must participate in 5 one-hour virtual education seminars held between April 1st- May 27th, 2025 (dates outlined above, exact times TBD)
- Must complete multiple choice/short essay test administered between May 29th-June 6th 2025
- If selected for phase two, must be available to travel to Jamaica in November 2025 (exact travel dates TBD)
2025 Dr. Joy Spence Fellowship Program
In partnership with Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum, we’re thrilled to present an extraordinary opportunity to elevate your craft and deepen your connection to Jamaican culture, cuisine, and rum craftsmanship.
This program honors the legendary Dr. Joy Spence, the first and longest-tenured female master blender. Join us as we celebrate her legacy and gain invaluable insights into the art of rum.
What’s in it for you?
- Participate in a five-course virtual series led by the brightest minds in the rum world, including a capstone session with Dr. Joy Spence herself.
- April 1st - History of Rum with Ian Burrell
- April 15th - Classic Rum Cocktails and Flavor Pairings - Sam Miller
- April 29th - Jamaican Cuisine, history, and Flavors - Michael Twitty
- May 13th - "Immersive Experience" bars, the Mai Tai, and Tropical Cocktails - Chockie Tom
- May 27th - Appleton history, the Brand, and Blending - Joy Spence
- Showcase your skills and knowledge in a test following the virtual series for a chance to be selected as the inaugural class of Dr. Joy Spence Bartender Fellows.
- Be among the 20 top-scoring students to earn an all-expenses-paid immersion experience at the Appleton Estate Distillery in Jamaica.
- Score some awesome swag for participating!
The Fellowship Experience:
Immerse yourself in the world of Jamaican rum. Learn from award-winning industry-leading experts the history of Rum, Jamaican flavors, rum mixology techniques, and leading rum bar programs. You may even get the chance to spend unprecedented time with the Appleton Estate team and dive deep into Appleton Estate’s rich history, all while learning directly from Dr. Joy Spence.
Ready to level up your rum game?
Apply now by Monday, March 17th, 2025, for your chance to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime program.Let’s craft with Joy and raise the bar to something extraordinary.
Completing the application does not guarantee acceptance. For your application to be considered, you must meet the eligibility requirements below:
- At Least 21 years of age
- USA Resident
- Have a valid US Passport
- Currently employed as a bartender, bar manager, barback or bar owner
- Must participate in 5 one-hour virtual education seminars held between April 1st- May 27th, 2025 (dates outlined above, exact times TBD)
- Must complete multiple choice/short essay test administered between May 29th-June 6th 2025
- If selected for phase two, must be available to travel to Jamaica in November 2025 (exact travel dates TBD)