Major Scott “Fuzzy” Meske has been enrolled in Whiskey University since mid-2021. In 2016 Whiskey University began offering Certificates, Diplomas, and Degrees, offering a credentialing path for those who enjoy sharing the gospel of America’s spirit. Scott earned his Bourbon Diploma from Whiskey University with 10 classes on September 14th, 2021.

A Wisconsin native, Scott moved to North Dakota in 2014 and has been guiding nonprofits and chambers in strategic planning and government affairs, launching his consulting company 701 Strategies in 2021 after leading two large chambers of commerce. He is a Certified Association Executive (CAE) and completed the Institute of Organizational Management (IOM) program through the US Chamber of Commerce. Meske went on to earn both his Associate Degree with 19 credits and his Bachelor of Science Degree in 2022, the former on February 15 th , 2022 with the title of “Certified Bourbon Taster” and the latter on November 30 th , 2022 after 29 classes.

Scott proudly served 15 years in the Army National Guard, the last 8 as a photojournalist, and has three sons who live in the Madison, Wis. area and coached youth sports (lacrosse and hockey) for 20 years before planting his North Dakota roots. Fuzzy has a myriad of interests including fly fishing, photography and songwriting. He lives in Bismarck, North Dakota with his girlfriend and regularly travels the Upper Great Plains in search of history, craft spirits and a good rodeo. Scott continued with his studies finishing 38 classes and was awarded his Bachelor of Arts Degree on December 18 th , 2023 being bestowed with the title of “Master Whiskey Taster.”

Scott is a graduate of the Fall Class of 2021 and earned his Master of Science Degree on April 14, 2024, which came with the commensurate title of “Chartered Master Bourbon Taster” with double majors in the Bluegrass Region and Craft Whiskey, adding to his Bachelor’s major of the Bourbon Capital Region. He continues his studies as he spearheads the Whiskey University expansion in North and South Dakota.

Fuzzy’s whiskey journey started when his beer league hockey friends came back from a trip to Scotland and had a “bottle share” event. Shortly thereafter, twelve guys started the “Waunakee Whiskey Society” to share spirits and learn about different whiskies. Fuzzy enjoys sharing the history and virtues of bourbon and whiskeys and help raise money for nonprofits in North Dakota, through tasting events.

“Anyone can drink whiskey. You have to learn to taste.” - Fuzzy

Scott has the following “Designations” & Credentials:

”Chartered Master Whiskey Taster”

(from the Whiskey University)

”Certified Bourbon Steward”

(from the Stave & Thief Society)