Traditionally, when one hears "single malt," the mind drifts to the rolling hills of Scotland or the lush greenery of Ireland. However, American distillers have stepped onto the stage with confidence, challenging the norms with a distinctly American take on the single malt. While the category has not been historically recognised by the U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) with a standard of identity, a movement led by craft distillers across the United States is looking to define what American single malt can and should be. The proposed standards suggest that to qualify, the whiskey must be made from 100% malted barley, distilled at a single distillery in the United States, and aged in oak barrels.
American single malts are characterised by their diverse expressions, which are shaped by the varied climates and environments across the country. Unlike Scotland’s generally cooler, more stable ageing conditions, the U.S. offers a multitude of climates, from the dry heat of Texas to the variable temperatures of the Pacific Northwest. This geographical diversity contributes to a wide array of flavour profiles, making American single malts particularly intriguing.
American distillers are not shy about pushing boundaries. They experiment with local barley strains, non-traditional malt types, and innovative ageing methods. Some use smoked malts to introduce rich, complex flavours, while others age their spirits in new American oak or used bourbon barrels, lending different nuances than the typical ex-sherry or ex-bourbon casks prevalent in Scotch production.
Distilleries like Stranahan's in Colorado and St. George Spirits in California have helped lead the way, showcasing the potential of American craftsmanship in the single malt category. These pioneers have laid the groundwork for a new whiskey tradition that's as varied as it is bold. Stranahan's, for example, uses Rocky Mountain water in its production, which imparts a unique minerality to the whiskey. St. George, with its diverse portfolio, showcases a range of single malts that feature innovative mash bills and barrel programs.
What's fascinating about American single malts is the enthusiasm for uncharted territory. For instance, Westland Distillery in Washington embraces its Pacific Northwest roots by using local peat and malt, yielding whiskeys that express their origin. Balcones in Texas, with its robust, intensely flavoured malts, reflects the state’s bigger-is-better ethos and the impact of the Texas heat on the ageing process.
The artisanal nature of the American single malt whiskey production process is often highlighted by the use of small batch and limited release practices. This not only ensures a high-quality product but also allows for a level of creativity and personal touch from the distillers that isn't always possible in larger operations.
Consumer education is crucial for the growth of American single malts. As the palate of the American whiskey drinker evolves and becomes more sophisticated, so does the appreciation for the subtleties and variations that this category offers. The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission is pivotal in this regard, aiming to define and promote the category while educating consumers about what makes these whiskeys unique.
American single malt whiskeys can vary greatly in flavour, from those that are light and floral to others that are rich and smoky. This range of taste profiles means there is likely an American single malt out there for every type of whiskey enthusiast. While many American distilleries eschew age statements, opting instead to release their whiskeys based on taste and maturity, the complexity and depth of flavour can rival those of much older whiskeys from traditional single malt regions.