The Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) is set to formally recognize American single malt whiskey as a distinct category within the next few weeks. This long-awaited move will establish it as the largest new category of spirit defined by the regulatory body in decades. American single malt whiskey has been steadily growing in complexity and popularity over the past 20 years, and this official recognition will usher in a new era where it becomes more prominent in the market.

Although American single malt whiskey may still be unfamiliar to many consumers who are more familiar with bourbons and ryes, its formal definition represents a significant milestone. However, some distilleries have expressed concerns about potential limitations on creativity and experimentation that may come with the official definition. It is worth noting that the category is already quite broad and diverse, with different distilleries producing single malt whiskeys that can be vastly different from one another.

The definition for American single malt whiskey seeks to strike a balance between control and freedom in production. It establishes certain requirements while allowing for flexibility in other aspects. So, let’s take a closer look at the definition and how major producers of American single malt whiskey approach its production.

To differentiate American single malt whiskey from other malt whiskeys, such as Scotch whisky, it is important to understand the term “single.” In the case of single malt whiskey, it means that the product is made from 100% malted barley and is the exclusive creation of a single distillery. American single malt whiskeys must meet the following criteria:

– Distilled from 100% malted barley

– Produced by a single distillery

– Mashed, distilled, and matured in the United States

– Aged in oak casks no larger than 700 liters

– Distilled to no more than 160 proof (distillation proof)

– Bottled at a minimum strength of 40% ABV (80 proof)

It is worth noting the differences between the regulations governing American single malt whiskey and Scottish single malts. One significant difference is the maximum distillation proof, which is set at 160 for American single malt whiskey to align with bourbon. This lower proof results in a more flavorful spirit, as fewer complex flavors are stripped away compared to higher proofs. In the Scotch industry, the legal maximum distillation proof is 190, although it is rarely used for malts. The limitation on cask size also serves to set a maximum size but not a minimum, granting distilleries the freedom to make choices in this regard.

In conclusion, the impending formal definition of American single malt whiskey by the TTB marks a significant development for the spirit. It will enhance its visibility and recognition in the market. The definition strikes a balance between regulation and artistic freedom, allowing distilleries to showcase their unique approaches and interpretations of American single malt whiskey.

of American single malt whiskey is its diversity. Unlike bourbon, which has strict regulations in terms of aging, barrel size, and new oak requirements, American single malt allows for more experimentation and creativity. Distilleries have the freedom to use smaller barrels, different types of wood, and even blend various components together.

The push to establish American single malt as an official category was led by the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC). With almost 100 member distilleries, the ASMWC represents the wide range of techniques and locations where American single malt is produced. These distilleries, spread across all 50 states and employing different distillation and aging methods, saw the official designation as a way to increase visibility and marketability for their products.

Gareth Moore, CEO of Virginia Distillery Co. (VDC), a prominent American single malt producer, describes the TTB’s decision as a historic moment for the industry. Moore believes that the definition of American single malt will not limit creativity, but rather provide a foundation for producers to build upon. VDC, known for its adherence to the Scottish tradition, focuses on three primary styles of cask aging: ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and ex-red wine casks that have been shaved, toasted, and re-charred. They also emphasize blending, with their flagship product, Courage & Conviction, being a blend of all three cask styles.

This blending approach sets VDC apart from other American single malt producers who may concentrate on one or two specific brands. The diversity within the category allows distilleries to create unique flavor profiles and appeal to a wide range of consumers.

However, one potential drawback of the absence of a minimum age statement requirement is that consumers may be unsure of the whiskey’s aging process. It is then up to each distillery to explain their own methods and provide transparency to the consumer.

Overall, the establishment of the American single malt category by the TTB is seen as a positive step for the industry. It not only expands the options available to whiskey drinkers but also encourages innovation and premiumization within the domestic market. With the official designation in place, American single malt producers can continue to explore and push the boundaries of what defines their unique and diverse style of whiskey.

The use of newly charred oak is what sets American single malt whiskeys apart from their Scottish counterparts. In the case of Westward Whiskey from Portland, Oregon, the use of new oak contributes to a more rapid aging process and a unique flavor profile. The combination of char, sweetness, and chemical compounds from the charred and toasted wood gives these whiskies a distinct taste.

But it’s not just the wood that makes American single malts different. The choice of malt also plays a role. Westward Whiskey, for example, uses brewer’s malts instead of the more neutral malt typically used by traditional distillers. This choice, along with the new oak, results in a product that is drastically different from what other distillers might create even with a similar mash bill.

Another example of American single malt whiskey is McCarthy’s Oregon Single Malt Whiskey from Hood River Distillers. This brand stands out from the others because of its heavy use of smoky, peated malt. The result is a whiskey that shares more similarities with the smoky malt whiskies of Islay, Scotland.

If you were to present samples of these brands to a blind-tasting panel, they would likely struggle to identify them as malt whiskeys. This goes to show just how diverse and innovative American single malts can be. And yet, many American spirits consumers have yet to discover or try these whiskies. Even scotch whisky drinkers may not have delved into the world of American single malts. This presents an opportunity for growth in this category.

As the popularity of bourbon wanes, American single malt whiskey could emerge as a new favorite among consumers. The variety and quality of American single malts offer a unique experience and showcase the craftsmanship and creativity of distillers. There is still so much to be discovered and enjoyed in the world of American single malts.

Jim Vorel, a staff writer for Paste, believes that the best is yet to come for American single malt whiskey. With a growing number of people falling in love with these whiskies, the future looks promising. The category has the potential to expand and attract a new core consumer base. It’s an exciting time for American single malt whiskey, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store.