Westland Distillery Celebrates TTB's Historic Ruling for American Single Malt Whiskey
In a moment of monumental significance for the U.S. whiskey industry, Westland Distillery has celebrated the official ratification of the American Single Malt Whiskey category by the U.S. government's Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). This landmark decision culminates over a decade of passionate advocacy led by Westland and many other distillers. The ruling, announced on December 16, 2024, defines American Single Malt Whiskey in a way that parallels the long-standing definitions reserved for Scotch whisky.
The journey to this victory began with an idea in 2010, the same year Westland Distillery was founded in Seattle, Washington. Jason Moore, the managing director of Westland, expressed the vision that American Single Malt Whiskey could hold its own on the global stage. In 2016, Westland took the initiative to establish the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission, a collective of close to 100 distillers dedicated to defining and promoting the category. Through relentless lobbying and a commitment to craft, they have succeeded in defining a unique identity for American Single Malt that reflects both tradition and innovation.
The new standard outlines several criteria that must be met for whiskey to be labeled as American Single Malt. These include being mashed, distilled, and aged within the United States, distilled entirely at a single U.S. distillery, produced from a fermented mash of 100% malted barley, and aged in oak barrels that are either used or newly-charred. Additionally, the whiskey must be distilled at a proof of 160 or less and bottled at no less than 80 proof. This regulatory framework establishes clear guidelines for producers and eliminates ambiguity in the market, thus protecting both consumers and distillers alike.
Prior to this ruling, the TTB acknowledged formal definitions of single malt whiskey only in relation to products manufactured in Scotland, leaving a void in the American whiskey narrative. The successful advocacy by Westland and the commission has not only leveled the playing field but also paved the way for American producers to showcase their craftsmanship on an international level.
In announcing the TTB's decision, Moore reflected on the broader implications of this recognition. "For more than a decade we have been at the forefront of this new category, diligently working to establish it on the global stage. Today, our passion and commitment culminate in a moment that reinvigorates the American spirit of innovation and excellence in whiskey making."
As Westland Distillery prepares for the forthcoming official publication of this ruling in the Federal Register – scheduled for December 18, 2024, with an effective date of January 19, 2025 – the distillery looks forward to what this means for the future of American Single Malt Whiskey. With this new chapter, Westland, along with its fellow distillers, is set to redefine the narrative of American whiskey, adding a fresh and distinctly American voice to an age-old tradition.
For those eager to explore the flavors and unique characteristics of Westland's offerings, the distillery is paving the way for whiskey enthusiasts to experience a range that is unlike any other. To learn more about this pioneering distillery and its exciting product lineup, visit Westland Distillery's website or follow their social media channels for the latest updates and releases.
In summary, the ratification of the American Single Malt Whiskey category is not just a regulatory victory; it is an affirmation of the craftsmanship, quality, and spirit of American distillers. As Westland Distillery continues to lead the way, the future looks bright for American Single Malt Whiskey, poised to take its rightful place alongside the finest whiskies in the world.
The journey to this victory began with an idea in 2010, the same year Westland Distillery was founded in Seattle, Washington. Jason Moore, the managing director of Westland, expressed the vision that American Single Malt Whiskey could hold its own on the global stage. In 2016, Westland took the initiative to establish the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission, a collective of close to 100 distillers dedicated to defining and promoting the category. Through relentless lobbying and a commitment to craft, they have succeeded in defining a unique identity for American Single Malt that reflects both tradition and innovation.
The new standard outlines several criteria that must be met for whiskey to be labeled as American Single Malt. These include being mashed, distilled, and aged within the United States, distilled entirely at a single U.S. distillery, produced from a fermented mash of 100% malted barley, and aged in oak barrels that are either used or newly-charred. Additionally, the whiskey must be distilled at a proof of 160 or less and bottled at no less than 80 proof. This regulatory framework establishes clear guidelines for producers and eliminates ambiguity in the market, thus protecting both consumers and distillers alike.
Prior to this ruling, the TTB acknowledged formal definitions of single malt whiskey only in relation to products manufactured in Scotland, leaving a void in the American whiskey narrative. The successful advocacy by Westland and the commission has not only leveled the playing field but also paved the way for American producers to showcase their craftsmanship on an international level.
In announcing the TTB's decision, Moore reflected on the broader implications of this recognition. "For more than a decade we have been at the forefront of this new category, diligently working to establish it on the global stage. Today, our passion and commitment culminate in a moment that reinvigorates the American spirit of innovation and excellence in whiskey making."
As Westland Distillery prepares for the forthcoming official publication of this ruling in the Federal Register – scheduled for December 18, 2024, with an effective date of January 19, 2025 – the distillery looks forward to what this means for the future of American Single Malt Whiskey. With this new chapter, Westland, along with its fellow distillers, is set to redefine the narrative of American whiskey, adding a fresh and distinctly American voice to an age-old tradition.
For those eager to explore the flavors and unique characteristics of Westland's offerings, the distillery is paving the way for whiskey enthusiasts to experience a range that is unlike any other. To learn more about this pioneering distillery and its exciting product lineup, visit Westland Distillery's website or follow their social media channels for the latest updates and releases.
In summary, the ratification of the American Single Malt Whiskey category is not just a regulatory victory; it is an affirmation of the craftsmanship, quality, and spirit of American distillers. As Westland Distillery continues to lead the way, the future looks bright for American Single Malt Whiskey, poised to take its rightful place alongside the finest whiskies in the world.
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.