All right, I have talked about it for so long. Until I'm blue in the face American single malt is here to stay and you need either get on the bandwagon or move over.
Today we deep dive into what is American single malt, why American Single Malt. In the future of ASM. I hope you enjoy and keep your mind and your pallet open.
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what is american single malt whiskey
American single malt whiskey is a style of whiskey distilled in the United States, made from 100% malted barley at a single distillery
. This distinguishes it from other American whiskies like bourbon, which requires a minimum of 51% corn in its mash bill.
In December 2024, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) officially recognized American Single Malt as a distinct category with specific standards. As of January 19, 2025, to be labeled as "American Single Malt Whiskey," it must be made from 100% malted barley, mashed, distilled, and aged in the United States at a single distillery. It must be distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% ABV), aged in oak barrels of no more than 700 liters, and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof (40% ABV). Caramel coloring is permitted but must be declared on the label. This formal recognition ensures consistency and authenticity.
Comparing American single malt to other whiskies
Compared to Bourbon: Bourbon requires a mash bill of at least 51% corn and must be aged in new, charred oak barrels, while American single malt is 100% malted barley and allows for the use of used barrels.
Compared to Scotch: Both are made from 100% malted barley at a single distillery. However, American single malt must be produced in the U.S.. Differences in aging and climate can lead to more pronounced vanilla and caramel notes in American versions, and regional temperature variations further influence flavor profiles.
The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC) was instrumental in advocating for official recognition, leading to growth in the craft distillery scene with diverse regional flavor profiles.
The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC) played a crucial role in establishing and advocating for the official recognition of American single malt whiskey as a distinct category.
Key aspects of the ASMWC's role
Defining the category: The ASMWC worked to establish a standard of identity for American single malt whiskey, outlining specific criteria for its production to ensure quality and consistency. These standards include using 100% malted barley, distillation at a single distillery in the U.S., and maturation in oak barrels (used or new, charred or uncharred) with a maximum capacity of 700 liters.
Advocacy and lobbying: The commission actively campaigned for the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) to recognize American single malt as a formal whiskey category. They collaborated with organizations like the Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. (DISCUS) and the American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA) to achieve this recognition.
Promoting and educating: The ASMWC aims to promote American single malt whiskey and educate both the trade and consumers about the category. This includes distinguishing it from other types of whiskey and showcasing the unique characteristics and potential of American single malts.
Supporting growth and innovation: While establishing clear standards, the ASMWC also seeks to foster innovation within the American single malt category, allowing distilleries to experiment with different techniques and flavor profiles. This balance is crucial for both establishing the category's integrity and allowing for its continued evolution.
