Welcome back to DadDimes on the Rocks with our special guest, Rob Martin! Today, we’re heading to the Rocky Mountains to review Stranahan’s Blue Peak Single Malt Whiskey—a Colorado-made American single malt that’s catching the attention of whiskey lovers who appreciate something different from the typical bourbon and rye scene.
Stranahan’s is known for pioneering American single malt whiskey, and Blue Peak is an approachable, lightly oaked, and fruit-forward expression. Let’s see how it stacks up!
The Story Behind Stranahan’s Blue Peak
Stranahan’s Distillery, located in Denver, Colorado, has been producing American single malt whiskey since 2004. Unlike bourbon, which must contain at least 51% corn, single malt whiskey is made from 100% malted barley, giving it a more refined, scotch-like character.
Blue Peak is named after a 14,000-foot peak in the Rocky Mountains, a nod to the high-altitude aging process that helps develop its unique flavors. It’s also solera-aged, meaning the barrels are never fully emptied, allowing older and newer whiskey to blend continuously—similar to certain Spanish sherry and rum aging techniques.
Key Details
Bottle Presentation
The tall, slender bottle follows Stranahan’s signature look, with a blue and gold label that reflects the mountain inspiration. It’s sleek, modern, and eye-catching on any shelf.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Aromas of honey, dried apricot, vanilla, and toasted oak. Hints of caramel, baking spice, and a touch of cocoa emerge with time.
Palate
A rich, malty sweetness upfront with notes of toffee, caramel, and stone fruits (peach & apricot). Mid-palate, you get a creamy mouthfeel with hints of dark chocolate, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The solera-aging gives it depth and balance, making it smooth yet complex.
Finish
Medium-length with lingering oak, malted barley sweetness, and a light spice. It’s not overly smoky but carries a touch of charred wood.
How Does It Compare?
If you’re a fan of Scotch-style single malts, Blue Peak offers a mellow, fruit-forward alternative with an American twist. It’s softer and sweeter than Stranahan’s Original, with more honeyed notes.
Compared to bourbon, Blue Peak has less vanilla and caramel but more malt and fruit complexity. It’s a great pick for those wanting to explore American single malts without diving into overly smoky or peaty territory.
Best Ways to Enjoy
🏔️ Neat – Best for appreciating the malty sweetness and complexity.
🧊 On the Rocks – A little water opens up the fruit and spice notes.
🍸 Whiskey Highball – Refreshing with club soda or ginger beer.
Final Thoughts
Stranahan’s Blue Peak is an excellent entry point into the world of American single malt whiskey. It’s smooth, fruity, and well-balanced, making it a great alternative to traditional bourbons and ryes. The solera-aging process adds depth, and the high-altitude maturation gives it a unique Rocky Mountain character.
💰 Worth the Price? At around $45-$55, it’s a solid value for an American single malt—especially if you enjoy a lighter, fruit-forward whiskey with a smooth finish.
Final verdict? A well-crafted, easy-drinking whiskey that bridges the gap between Scotch and bourbon. 🥃🏔️
That’s it for today’s DadDimes on the Rocks review! Until next time, sip slow and enjoy the view. Cheers! 🥃🔥
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