When John George retired from the pharmaceutical industry and decided to take up commercial distilling, he needed to learn the craft. Marilyn Johnson reported his educational source — Moonshine University — for Philly Grub.

George new virtually nothing about the science of distilling spirits when he redirected his career. Fortunately, Moonshine University, Louisville, was available as a resource for the training and business management education he needed.

Degree in hand, he launched his business in 2017, taking over the former Humane Fire Engine Co. #1 building in Norristown.

He first wanted to call his establishment Five Brothers Distilling, honoring a quintet of father figures from his youth.

But the name wasn’t unique enough.

To recognize the heavenly influence of his mentors, he therefore opted for Five Saints.

Onsite, George crafts seven small-batch hand-crafted spirits, using grain sourced in Elverson, Pa., Some of the Five Saints vintages have taken prestigious industry awards.

More on how Moonshine University helped this standout distiller in Norristown is at Philly Grub.

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Moonshine University’s six-day distiller course is profiled here.