Frequently Asked Questions
Discover the essence of the American West with High West High Country American Single Malt Whiskey, a meticulously crafted spirit from Utah's renowned High West Distillery. This distinctive whiskey is made from 100% malted barley using a blend of three unique mashbills, including peated Scottish malt, and aged between two to nine years in a combination of new and used oak barrels, with some finishing in port casks. Distilled “on-the-grain” for a robust and flavor-forward profile, this 88-proof single malt offers a rich palate of honeyed cereal, roasted malt, and herbal nuances, complemented by notes of vanilla, citrus, and a subtle smokiness. Perfect for savoring neat or with a splash of water, High Country celebrates the rugged elegance of the western frontier, making it a standout addition to the American single malt category.
Process & Profile
High West High Country American Single Malt Whiskey is a celebrated creation from the High West Distillery, located in the scenic region of Utah. This whiskey is crafted using a distinctive process called non-filtered "on-the-grain" distillation, where the grain remains during fermentation and distillation, enhancing the whiskey's flavor depth and texture. The mash bill comprises three types of 100% malted barley: two-row malt, chocolate malt, and peated Scottish malt, resulting in a complex flavor profile. Aged between 2 to 9 years, the whiskey matures in various casks, including new charred oak, ex-bourbon, ex-rye, and ex-Port casks, achieving a harmonious blend of malt richness with subtle Western smoke and spice. At 88 proof (44% ABV), it strikes the perfect balance for sipping elegance and bold complexity.Tasting Notes
Nose: A rich bouquet greets you with aromas of honey, toasted malt, dried stone fruits, fig jam, and hints of wildflowers. Subtle notes of cedar and baking spices add depth to the experience. Palate: The flavor journey begins with layers of sweet toffee, caramel custard, and almond macaroons. This is followed by complex hints of malt, nougat, and roasted nuts. Mid-palate, notes of dried apricots, orange zest, and a touch of earthy smoke shine through, creating an exquisite balance. Finish: The whiskey concludes with a long and warming finish, featuring lingering flavors of dark honey, charred oak, chocolate spice, and a whisper of herbal smokiness. It leaves a nutty and subtly sweet aftertaste, making it a delightful sip for any occasion.What Makes It Special
High West High Country stands out in the American single malt category for its innovative approach to distillation and blending. It is one of the rare American single malts distilled entirely in-house by High West. The use of both freshly charred and second-use oak barrels for aging, along with finishing in French oak Port casks, adds unique layers of flavor. This whiskey captures the spirit of the American frontier with its bold maltiness and complex character, offering a rich, textured sip that appeals to fans of both Scotch-style single malts and bold American whiskeys.How to Enjoy
High West High Country American Single Malt Whiskey is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed in multiple ways:- Neat: Best savored neat to fully appreciate its nuanced flavors and creamy mouthfeel.
- With Water: Add a few drops of water to open up the delicate notes of vanilla, honeyed cereal, and malt sweetness.
- On the Rocks: Chilling the whiskey slightly can mellow the smokiness and enhance the caramel undertones.
- Cocktail: For a refined twist, incorporate it into classic cocktails like a Whiskey Sour or Rob Roy.
Conclusion
High West High Country American Single Malt Whiskey is a testament to the innovation and craftsmanship of American distilleries. With its unique blend of malted barley and meticulous aging process, it offers a bold yet elegant drinking experience that is best suited for whiskey connoisseurs and adventurous sippers alike. Whether you’re sipping it neat, enjoying it with friends, or adding it to your collection, this whiskey is a true celebration of the American single malt tradition.Frequently Asked Questions
What is High West High Country American Single Malt Whiskey?
High West High Country is a premium American single malt whiskey distilled and blended in-house by High West Distillery in Utah. It features a tri-blend of three malted barley grains: base malt, caramel malt, and chocolate malt. It's aged in both freshly charred and second-use oak barrels, delivering a robust, grain-forward flavor profile.
What makes High West High Country unique compared to other whiskeys?
Unlike many other whiskeys, High Country is distilled "on-the-grain," meaning the grain remains in the mash during fermentation and distillation. This helps create a rich and distinct flavor. Additionally, its use of a range of barrels, including Port cask finishes, enhances its complexity with subtle fruity and herbal notes.
What does High West High Country taste like?
High Country offers a layered flavor profile with notes of honeysuckle, citrus, candied apples, sweet malt, and melon. The palate reveals hints of black tea, sponge cake, and early gray cookies, with a subtle touch of vanilla and almond paste on the finish. The whiskey is smooth and inviting, with a creamy texture.
How long is High West High Country aged?
High Country is aged for a minimum of two years, with some components aged as long as nine years. This range of aging influences its complexity and balance.
What is the recommended way to enjoy High West High Country?
High Country is a versatile whiskey that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. Its delicate yet complex profile makes it ideal for sipping and appreciating its nuanced flavors.
What is the proof and price of High West High Country?
High West High Country is bottled at 88 proof (44% alcohol by volume). It is priced at approximately $79.99 for a 750ml bottle.
Is High West High Country widely available?
High Country is an annual release and primarily available throughout the United States. However, availability may vary by location, and it's recommended to check local retailers or High West's website.
What distinguishes American single malt from other whiskey styles?
American single malt whiskey is made from 100% malted barley at a single distillery, similar to single malt Scotch, but with fewer production constraints. This freedom allows for diverse flavor profiles, often featuring notes of vanilla, spice, fruit, toffee, or smokiness, depending on the distillation and aging methods.
How does High West High Country compare to single malt Scotch?
While both share the use of 100% malted barley, High West High Country reflects American innovation by using unique aging techniques and barrels, such as Port cask finishes. It tends to have a grain-forward flavor with less smokiness compared to many Scotch single malts, offering a smoother, fruitier, and more approachable profile.
Can High West High Country be shipped?
High West can ship to select states, including Kentucky, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and the District of Columbia. Shipping laws may vary, so purchasers should confirm regulations for their location.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
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