A Taste of American Single Malt Whiskeys

The single malt tradition was once only Scotland’s to command, but over the past two decades, American distilleries have been hard at work, staking their own serious claim. Now, that toil has paid off: as of January 19, 2025, new U.S. regulations legally protect and define American single malt whiskey as spirit distilled at a single U.S. distillery, made from 100% malted barley, aged in oak barrels (up to 700 liters), and bottled at no less than 80 proof. This landmark change opens the door for true innovation, global recognition, and widespread enjoyment from more whiskey enthusiasts across the world – and especially those who typically fancy themselves Scotch or bourbon lovers.

But no two American single malt whiskeys are alike. Nor should they be. Like with all great whiskey varieties, each bottle and sip is a reflection of where and how it was distilled and aged. From the misty coasts of Washington to Colorado’s mile-high Rocky Mountains and the pastoral hills of Virginia, this coast-to-coast lineup celebrates the diversity of region, craft, and creativity in American single malt whiskey.

Stranahan’s Mountain Angel 10-Year-Old
Stranahan’s is a category pioneer. Founded over 20 years ago, it reigns as the number one-selling and most awarded American single malt. The brand is known for crafting some of the highest age stated American single malt whiskeys, including this 10-Year-Old expression, which earned “Best American Whiskey” and “Best American Single Malt” accolades just last year.

Matured in Stranahan’s Denver distillery, a mile above sea level in new charred oak, this American single malt experiences a unique Angel’s Share loss that results in a depth of flavor and aroma comparable to Scotch whisky more than twice its age. Expect salted caramel and stone fruit compote wrapped in vanilla cream, with fragrant mountain pine, a touch of tobacco, and a lingering warmth of nutmeg, pepper, and charred oak. A rare and patient expression of American terroir.

Westland Wine Cask Finish  American Single Malt
As part of the Cask Exploration Series, Westland’s Wine Cask Finish is uniquely inspired by the Pacific Northwest’s rich winemaking history, introducing Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Washington Red Blend casks. 

The resulting whiskey balances intricate fruity notes with a rich and robust palate, earning it a place among Whisky Advocate’s Top 20 Most Exciting Whiskeys in the World in 2024.

Virginia Distillery Co. Cabernet Cask Select American Single Malt
Virginia Distillery Co. is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, where cool winters and hot summers shape the whisky with bold character and complexity.

VDC Cabernet Cask is aged for four years in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels, then finished in premium Cabernet Sauvignon casks from France and California, regions renowned for world-class wine. Aromas of black cherry, cedar, apricot, and soft smoke lead into flavors of blackberry, plum, candied ginger, and rich chocolate. A bold and balanced vision of American single malt.

This whisky was named American Single Malt Whisky of the Year in 2024 and earned the title of Highest Rated Whisky with an impressive 98 points at the International Wine & Spirit Competition — a true testament to its exceptional quality.
 

SMARTASS CORNER

1. Stranahan’s was the first legal distillery in Colorado since Prohibition. Founded in 2004, it pioneered American single malt before the category even officially existed.

2. Westland Distillery helped lead the charge for official recognition of American Single Malt. It co-founded the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission in 2016 to establish clear standards.

3. In January 2025, the U.S. government formally defined American Single Malt—requiring it be made from 100% malted barley, distilled at one U.S. distillery, and aged in oak barrels. Before this, it existed in a legal gray area.

4. Virginia Distillery Co's late founder, Dr. George G. Moore, broke ground on the distillery in 2011, and his wife and son have continued carrying on his vision.

5. Westland matures its whiskey in Seattle’s cool, damp climate—conditions similar to Scotland—which slows down evaporation and promotes complex aging.

6. Stranahan’s Mountain Angel 10 Year is aged at 6,000 feet above sea level. The altitude leads to greater barrel pressure changes, accelerating flavor extraction from the oak.

7. Virginia Distillery Co. American Single Malt is aged in ex-bourbon barrels and then finished in a variety of esteemed casks sourced from all over the world, as well as in Virginia.

8. Unlike Scotch, American Single Malt is not restricted by centuries-old traditions. This gives U.S. distillers more creative freedom to experiment with cask finishes, grain sourcing, and aging climates.