Did you know that the latest trend in American whiskey isn’t bourbon or rye, but something entirely new and unique? It’s time to meet the bold, complex, and rapidly rising star of the whiskey world: American Single Malt.

Whether you're a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or just beginning your journey, American Single Malt offers a fresh and intriguing taste experience that's hard to resist.

If you’re wondering what makes American Single Malt the buzz-worthy newcomer that’s captivating whiskey lovers, you’re about to discover the story behind this innovative spirit.

Crafted with a Unique American Twist: The Story of American Single Malt Whiskey

Let’s indulge in the American Single Malt Whiskey story.

This type of whiskey is quickly gaining recognition as an innovative and distinctly American spirit, inspired by traditional Scottish single malts but crafted with a unique American twist. Emerging in the early 2000s, this whiskey is made from 100% malted barley and produced at a single distillery, offering a bold flavor profile with rich maltiness and subtle smokiness. Each distillery brings its own creativity, resulting in a wide range of flavors and limited-edition releases that appeal to both whiskey connoisseurs and collectors.

American Single Malt is celebrated for its artisanal quality, with many small, independent distilleries focusing on craftsmanship over mass production. As noted by sources like Whiskey Advocate, this category is poised for significant growth, with leading brands like Westland and Balcones paving the way for its rise in the U.S. whiskey scene.

The Unique Aging Process of American Single Malt Whiskey

American Single Malt whiskey is distinguished by its unique aging processes, which set it apart from other types of whiskey. Unlike traditional American whiskeys like bourbon, which typically age in new charred oak barrels, American Single Malt often explores a wider variety of barrel types. Distilleries may use barrels that previously held wine, sherry, port, or even rum, each contributing distinct flavors and complexities to the whiskey..

One notable aspect of American Single Malt’s aging process is the use of native American oak, which imparts a different flavor profile compared to the European oak commonly used in Scottish single malts. The climate also plays a significant role in the aging process; for instance, the hot, dry conditions in Texas can accelerate the interaction between the whiskey and the wood, leading to bolder flavors.

As the American Single Malt category continues to grow, more distilleries across the country are experimenting with different techniques, from using various strains of barley to aging in diverse types of wood.

Unveiling the Rich Flavors of American Single Malt Whiskey

Let’s dive into the flavor profiles of these whiskies.

American Single Malt Whiskeys are rich and complex, with a malty core complemented by various notes depending on the aging process.

Flavor Profiles:

• Malty Sweetness: A characteristic sweetness derived from the malted barley, often reminiscent of cereal or bread.
• Fruitiness: Depending on the yeast used in fermentation, you might find notes of dried fruits like apricot, raisins, or even citrus zest.
• Oak and Vanilla: From the interaction with oak barrels, these whiskeys often showcase rich vanilla, caramel, and sometimes toffee notes.
• Spice: American Single Malt can feature a variety of spice notes, from cinnamon and nutmeg to pepper and clove, particularly when aged in heavily charred barrels.
• Smokiness: While not as common as in Scotch, some American Single Malts incorporate peat or smoked malt, contributing to a subtle or pronounced smoky character.
• Chocolate and Coffee: Some expressions develop deeper, darker notes of chocolate, espresso, or roasted nuts, especially those aged in barrels previously used for other spirits like sherry or port.

Generally, American Single Malts provide a smooth, robust mouthfeel with flavors ranging from toasted nuts and caramel to subtle smokiness. The overall experience is one of balance and depth, offering whiskey enthusiasts a unique and satisfying exploration of American craftsmanship.

Here are some of the American Single Malt products in our collection:

Westland American Single Malt Whiskey 92

Westland American Single Malt Whiskey 92 is a celebrated expression from Seattle's Westland Distillery, a pioneer in American single malt whiskey. Established in 2010, Westland blends traditional Scottish methods with the Pacific Northwest's unique terroir, using locally sourced barley and maturing their whiskey in a mix of oak casks. This whiskey features a deep amber hue with a rich and complex nose of roasted malt, chocolate, coffee, dark fruits, and a touch of oak. The full-bodied palate offers layers of roasted coffee, dark chocolate, toasted nuts, and ripe fruits, balanced by a malty sweetness and gentle spice from new American oak barrels. The long, warm finish lingers with notes of cocoa, roasted malt, and subtle smokiness. Overall, Westland American Single Malt 92 is a harmonious and complex whiskey that exemplifies the distinct character of American single malts.

Old Line American Single Malt Whiskey 750ml

Old Line American Single Malt Whiskey 750ml is a distinctive expression crafted by Old Line Spirits, based in Baltimore, Maryland. This whiskey is made using 100% malted barley, following the traditional single malt production methods while adding a unique American twist. The whiskey is aged in new charred American oak barrels, which imparts a robust character to the spirit. On the nose, it offers inviting aromas of caramel, vanilla, and honey, mingled with hints of dried fruits and subtle spices. The palate is rich and full-bodied, featuring flavors of toffee, dark chocolate, and toasted oak, complemented by a touch of spice and a soft, malty sweetness. The finish is smooth and lingering, with a pleasant warmth and notes of oak and spice. Old Line American Single Malt is a bold yet balanced whiskey, reflecting the craftsmanship and innovative spirit of its makers.

Fox & Oden Single Malt Whiskey 750ml

Fox & Oden Single Malt Whiskey 750ml is a premium American whiskey that embodies the brand's dedication to small-batch craftsmanship and traditional distillation methods. This whiskey offers a rich and full-bodied experience, starting with deep, malty flavors that evoke toasted barley. As it develops on the palate, you'll notice layers of complexity with notes of caramel, honey, and a hint of dark chocolate, creating a balanced sweetness. The finish is smooth and lingering, with subtle hints of oak and spice that leave a warm, satisfying aftertaste. Fox & Oden Single Malt is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality, delivering a uniquely American take on the classic single malt style, making it a must-try for whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate the artistry behind each bottle.

Conclusion

American Single Malt whiskey is a rising star, known for its innovative aging techniques and complex flavor profiles. Crafted with unique methods, it offers a distinct taste experience.