Distillers finally got their wish for official recognition of this category. Let The MAX be your Fort Collins source!
After years of advocacy by distillers, American Single Malt Whiskey has officially (finally!) emerged as a recognized category, marking a significant milestone for U.S. craft whiskey. It’s essentially the birth of a new whiskey, and we at Mulberry MAX are happy to be THE Fort Collins source for American Single Malt.
The official recognition means nothing less than a new wave in whiskey production, and it opens the doors for whiskey enthusiasts to explore a truly unique spirit. Although American Single Malt is made from 100% malted barley like Scotch and other world whiskys, it doesn’t have the same flavor profile at all. You just have to try it to get the feel for this new spirit.
Whether you’re a dedicated connoisseur or just beginning your journey into the world of whiskey, it’s time to raise a glass to American Single Malt.
What is American Single Malt Whiskey?
American Single Malt Whiskey is a category defined by its own set of distinct characteristics, which differentiate it from bourbon, rye, Scotch and other whiskeys. According to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), which finalized its criteria in December, an American Single Malt must meet the following standards:
- Mash composition: 100% malted barley.
- Production location: Mashed, distilled, and aged entirely in the United States.
- Distillery process: Produced entirely at one U.S. distillery.
- Distillation proof: Distilled to a maximum proof of 160.
- Barrel aging: Stored in oak barrels (used, uncharred new, or charred new) with a maximum capacity of 700 liters.
- Bottling proof: Bottled at no less than 80° proof.
This ruling closely follows recommendations from the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission, which was established in 2016 to promote and protect this burgeoning category.
The reason for this process of creating a new whiskey category? to protect you, the consumer. Distillers want you to have some idea what you’re getting when you buy an American Single Malt, just like you know to some extent what a bourbon will taste like.
A Colorado Single Malt Whiskey Pioneer Celebrates
Distillers across the country have embraced this new recognition with enthusiasm. In Colorado, whiskey makers have been instrumental in contributing to the growth and evolution of American Single Malt. One pioneering player, Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey, has been championing the category for over two decades. Justin Aden, the Head Blender at Stranahan’s, remarked: “We celebrate with everyone who has bottled their passion and stayed the course.”
Stranahan’s has led the charge in crafting unique expressions that showcase the versatility and creativity of American Single Malt. And several U.S. distilleries, including several Fort Collins distillers, are following their lead.
How Does American Single Malt Compare to Bourbon?
Bourbon and American Single Malt Whiskey share some similarities, but their differences make each a distinct experience:
- Aging Requirements: While both are aged in oak barrels, bourbon requires new, charred oak barrels. American Single Malt allows for used barrels, including those previously used for bourbon, enabling a broader flavor palette.
- Primary Ingredients: Bourbon’s main ingredient is corn, imparting its characteristic sweetness. American Single Malt is made entirely of malted barley, which offers layers of complexity and depth.
- Flavor Profiles: Bourbon often delivers notes of caramel, cherries, and vanilla, whereas American Single Malt tends toward flavors like toffee, dried fruit, chocolate, and spices.
- Aging Timeline: With American Single Malt being a relatively new category, most offerings are younger compared to aged bourbons. However, exciting innovations continue to emerge, such as Stranahan’s 12-year-old Mountain Angel.
What does American Single Malt taste like?
According to Jason Parker, Co-Founder and Head Distiller at Copperworks Distilling, “American Single Malt really doesn’t taste like Scotch or bourbon. It’s a whole new flavor concept.”
Virginia Distillery Co., a leading producer in this category, describes its American Single Malt as showcasing “notes ranging from soft stone fruits to rich toffees and dried fruits, with endless possibilities of flavor combinations.” This versatility makes American Single Malt a compelling option for whiskey enthusiasts looking to explore beyond traditional boundaries.
Where to Find American Single Malt Whiskey in Fort Collins
Mulberry MAX is the Fort Collins liquor store embracing this new category, with several American Single Malts now available for purchase. Here are some standout options to consider:
Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey
- Blue Peak: Designed as an introduction to the style, Blue Peak features flavors of creamy butterscotch, brown sugar, baked apples, and toasted oak.
- Original: Stranahan’s flagship bottle is the top-selling American Single Malt in the U.S. Its palate reveals notes of cinnamon butter, vanilla, warm caramel, and spiced pear, finishing with oak and aged leather.
- Special Releases: Stranahan’s offers a variety of innovative expressions, including Sherry Cask-Finished, Diamond Peak (aged in Caribbean rum casks), and the 12-year-old Mountain Angel.
Ironton Distillery
Cam’s 1870 is a collab with CSU’s Fermentation Sciences program. They created a highly drinkable single malt that also supports the university’s athletics and alumni programs. Everyone wins.
Bulleit
Known for its bourbon and rye, Bulleit has entered the American Single Malt market with a solid entry that maintains its reputation for quality. They describe their whiskey as having “that signature, subtle Bulleit spice with aromas of sweet vanilla and toasted oak. It’s light and fruity on the palate with hints of red fruit and pear, which follow into a smooth finish of oaky caramel and subtle cocoa notes.”
Coors Whiskey Company
Five Trail blends aged bourbons with Colorado Single Malt Whiskey and Rocky Mountain water. Bourbon lovers (and maybe our many Coors fans) could consider this as an excellent entry point into American Single Malt.
Spirit Hound Straight Malt Whiskey
This whiskey, made from barley that’s grown and malted in Alamosa, Colorado, dips a toe into the world of Scotch by adding a small amount of peated barley. The nose hits on green apple, sweet vanilla, and toasted sugar. You’ll taste sarsaparilla, brown sugar, sometimes almonds or pecans, with a rich and coating mouthfeel and a finish of cinnamon and smoke.
(Note: The TTB’s ruling allows a distiller to call their whiskey “Straight” American Single Malt if it’s aged at least two years.)
High West
High Country is distilled and blended by High West in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah. You’ll get a nose of warm croissants, Bananas Foster and white grape jelly on toast points. A taste brings flavors of honeydew melon drizzled with raw honey, dulce de leche, praline, shortbread raisin cookies, tobacco, finishing with vanilla cream and maple syrup.
Virginia Distillery
Their Cider Cask Finish American Single Malt ages for years in ex-bourbon barrels before finishing in French calvados casks, premium Virginia cider barrels and Laird’s Apple Brandy barrels. It presents aromas of honeysuckle, with baked apple and cinnamon on the palate.
Exploring New Whiskey Frontiers
The recognition of American Single Malt as an official category represents more than just a regulatory milestone – it’s a celebration of innovation and craftsmanship in the American whiskey industry. Distillers are now equipped to experiment within this framework, resulting in unique and flavorful expressions that challenge traditional expectations.
Your source for American Single Malt Whiskey in Fort Collins
For those ready to dive into the world of American Single Malt, you need look no further than Mulberry MAX to find some enticing options. We take pride in our wide-range selection of whiskeys and other spirits, along with a huge beer cooler and a list of wines that includes something to pair with any meal.
Stop by our store at 460 S College Ave #G in Fort Collins, next to Target at the intersection of Mulberry and College. Our knowledgeable team will help you find the best American Single Malt Whiskey to start your tasting exploration.