Zymurgy is a noun that refers to the fermentation in brewing, winemaking and distilling. 

The Greek word zume (zoo MAY) means ‘leaven.’ Since zymurgy’s move to English in the mid-19th century, its meaning has shifted from a process done to bread to a process done to alcohol. Example:

Distilling whiskey isn’t as easy as it seems. In fact, I would even say zymurgy is a dangerous skill if done incorrectly. When drinkers don’t get the results they want, they can get downright ornery.