National American Single Malt Whiskey Day – January 19th
In honor of the U.S. TTB rarifying American Single Malt Whiskey as an official category of whiskey, January 19 shall officially be known as National American Single Malt Whiskey Day.
Legislation of American Single Malt Whiskey
For the first time in over 52 years, the U.S. Government is adding a new type of whiskey to its regulations: American Single Malt Whiskey. Effective January 19th, 2025, The U.S. TTB defines American Single Malt Whiskey as a new category of whiskey Standard of Identity to Part 5 of the Code of Federal Regulations. That definition stipulates that American Single Malt adhere to the following production standards:
1. Made from 100% malted barley
2. Distilled entirely at one distillery
3. Mashed, distilled and matured in the USA
4. Matured in Oak Casks of a capacity not exceeding 700 Liters
5. Distilled to no more than 160 Proof
6. Bottled at 80 proof or more
Every year on January 19th, whiskey enthusiasts across the United States raise a glass to a spirit that’s as bold and diverse as the country itself: American Single Malt Whiskey. National American Single Malt Whiskey Day, observed this year on October 25, honors the burgeoning category of whiskeys distilled from 100% malted barley at a single U.S. distillery. Unlike its Scottish counterparts, which have dominated the single malt narrative for centuries, American versions burst with experimental flair, regional ingredients, and a pioneering spirit that reflects the nation’s melting pot of cultures and landscapes.
This unofficial holiday, championed by the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC) since its informal inception in the mid-2010s, has gained traction amid the craft distilling boom. It’s a day to explore tasting flights, attend virtual or in-person events at distilleries, and appreciate how American distillers are carving out their own identity in the global whiskey world. But what exactly makes American Single Malt unique, and why does it deserve its own day? Let’s dive into the mash bill.
The Roots of a New Tradition
Single malt whiskey isn’t new—Scotland has been perfecting it since the 15th century, with icons like Glenfiddich and The Macallan setting the gold standard. In the U.S., however, the category emerged from the shadows of bourbon and rye only in the late 20th century. Pioneers like Westland Distillery in Seattle (founded in 2010) and Stranahan’s in Colorado (2004) challenged the dominance of corn-based bourbons by focusing exclusively on malted barley.
The ASMWC, formed in 2016 by a coalition of over 100 distilleries, pushed for official recognition from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). In 2022, their efforts paid off when the TTB proposed a formal “American Single Malt Whiskey” standard: 100% malted barley, distilled at one U.S. distillery to no more than 160 proof, aged in oak barrels of no more than 700 liters, and bottled at least at 80 proof. While final approval is still pending as of 2025, this framework has legitimized the category and fueled its growth.
National American Single Malt Whiskey Day emerged organically from this momentum. Distilleries began promoting it around 2018 as a way to educate consumers and boost sales during the fall season, aligning with harvest festivals and the lead-up to holiday gifting. Today, it’s marked by special releases, barrel tastings, and social media campaigns with hashtags like #AmericanSingleMaltDay.
What Sets American Single Malt Apart?
Forget rigid rules—American distillers thrive on freedom. While Scotch must age in used barrels and adhere to strict geographical indications, U.S. producers experiment wildly:
- Regional Ingredients and Terroir: From Pacific Northwest barley smoked over local peat to Appalachian grains influenced by mountain water, each expression tells a story of place. Virginia Distillery Company’s Courage & Conviction uses Virginia-grown barley, while Texas’s Andalusia Whiskey Co. incorporates mesquite-smoked malt for a Southwestern twist.
- Innovative Aging: New charred oak, wine casks, or even tequila barrels? Yes, please. Westward Whiskey in Oregon ages its single malt in lightly toasted American oak, yielding notes of tropical fruit and spice that differ from peaty Islay drams.
- Diverse Flavor Profiles: Expect everything from fruity and floral (like Balcones in Texas) to robust and smoky (High West in Utah). ABVs often climb higher than Scotch counterparts, delivering bolder punches.
This versatility has attracted a new generation of drinkers. According to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), American single malt sales grew by 25% in 2024 alone, outpacing overall whiskey growth. It’s not just hype—blind tastings at events like the San Francisco World Spirits Competition frequently award gold medals to U.S. entries.
Iconic Expressions to Try This Year
To celebrate properly, stock up on these standout bottles:
- Westland American Single Malt (Core Range) – Garryana Edition: Aged in rare Quercus garryana oak from the Pacific Northwest, it offers cocoa, campfire, and roasted nuts. Around $125.
- Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey – The original American single malt, with caramel, vanilla, and a Rocky Mountain minerality. A gateway pour at $60.
- Virginia Distillery Co. Courage & Conviction – Bourbon cask-aged for creamy butterscotch and apple pie vibes. $75.
- Lost Lantern Single Malts – A independent bottler highlighting regional gems, like their Midwest blends. Prices vary $80–$150.
For budget-conscious fans, newcomers like Tenmile Distillery in New York offer entry-level bottles under $50 with surprising complexity.
How to Celebrate National American Single Malt Whiskey Day
- Host a Tasting: Gather friends for a vertical flight comparing ages or regions. Pair with dark chocolate, smoked cheeses, or barbecue.
- Visit a Distillery: Many, like Westland or Balcones, host open houses with tours and exclusive pours.
- Cocktails with a Twist: Shake up an American Single Malt Old Fashioned or a smoky Penicillin variant.
- Support the Cause: Follow the ASMWC on social media and advocate for the TTB’s final standard.
As the sun sets on another National American Single Malt Whiskey Day, one thing is clear: this isn’t just a drink—it’s a declaration of independence in a glass. From coast to coast, distillers are proving that single malt isn’t bound by tradition; it’s redefined by innovation. So pour a dram, savor the nuance, and toast to the future of American whiskey. Sláinte—or as we’d say stateside, cheers!
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