Frequently Asked Questions
Crafted in the heart of Portland, Oregon, Westward American Single Malt Whiskey is a masterful representation of innovation and tradition. Made from 100% malted barley and distilled in custom pot stills, this whiskey embodies the "Grain to Glass" philosophy, showcasing bold flavors reflective of its Pacific Northwest origins. Aged in new, heavily toasted and lightly charred American oak barrels, it delivers a rich profile of stone fruit, caramel, vanilla, and coconut, with a velvety mouthfeel and a lingering finish of toffee and oak. Perfect enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or as the base for classic cocktails, this smooth, complex whiskey sets itself apart as a trailblazer in the American single malt category.
Process & Profile
Westward American Single Malt Whiskey starts its journey as a pale ale brewed with locally sourced, Northwest malted barley. This spirit is then double-distilled in custom low-reflux pot stills, designed for a robust and flavorful output. Finally, it is aged in new, heavily toasted, and lightly charred American oak barrels, where Oregon's dynamic climate—hot summers and cool, wet winters—adds depth and complexity to the whiskey. With a mash bill of 100% malted barley and a 45% ABV (90 proof), this is a bold yet balanced whiskey that reflects the artistry of its creators.Tasting Notes
- Appearance: A radiant cloudy gold hue that catches the light beautifully.
- Nose: Aromas of orange peel, citrus, caramel, lightly toasted nuts, and subtle herbal undertones.
- Palate: A medley of stone fruits, vanilla, honey, and caramel with hints of coconut and butterscotch.
- Mouthfeel: A smooth and velvety texture that glides effortlessly.
- Finish: Lingering notes of toffee and light oak frame the finale with finesse, leaving you wanting another sip.
What Makes It Special
- Grain-to-Glass Philosophy: Westward honors its brewing origins by crafting its whiskey from scratch, starting with a drinkable pale ale.
- Innovative Craftsmanship: A blend of American ingenuity and inspiration from classic single malt traditions ensures a bold identity unlike any other.
- Oregon's Unique Climate: Aging in the Pacific Northwest imbues each barrel with a distinct character, shaped by the region's temperature fluctuations.
- Award-Winning Legacy: Recognized as a leader in the American Single Malt category, Westward continually pushes the boundaries of what whiskey can achieve.
How to Enjoy
Unleash the full potential of Westward American Single Malt Whiskey with these serving suggestions:- Neat: Appreciate its intricate flavors and rich profile.
- With a Splash of Water: Enhance fruity and sweet undertones.
- On the Rocks: A chill softens the boldness, creating a refreshing experience.
- Cocktails: Elevate classics like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan with its robust palate. Pair it with grilled meats, aged cheeses, or desserts like dark chocolate cake for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Westward American Single Malt Whiskey made from?
Westward American Single Malt Whiskey is crafted from 100% malted barley, following a meticulous brewing process inspired by the craft beer tradition. This whiskey is mashed, fermented, distilled, and aged entirely in Portland, Oregon, using locally sourced ingredients and new American oak barrels with a heavy toast and light char.
How does it differ from Scotch or Irish single malt?
American single malt whiskey, including Westward, is aged in new American oak barrels, which enhances flavors of caramel, vanilla, and spice, as opposed to the used barrels traditionally used in Scotch production. Westward also embraces regional creativity, leveraging Pacific Northwest climate and brewing techniques to deliver a bold flavor profile that features stone fruit, honey, and coconut, setting it apart from Scotch's smoky profile and Irish whiskey's lighter, triple-distilled nature.
What does Westward American Single Malt Whiskey taste like?
Westward American Single Malt Whiskey offers a complex and layered flavor profile. On the nose, you'll find notes of orange peel, caramel, and toasted nuts. The palate delivers flavors of stone fruit, vanilla, honey, caramel, and coconut, with a smooth and velvety mouthfeel. It finishes with lingering notes of toffee and subtle oak.
How is Westward American Single Malt Whiskey best enjoyed?
This whiskey is highly versatile and can be enjoyed: - **Neat**: To savor its rich and layered flavors. - **With a drop of water**: To open up fruity and sweet notes. - **On the rocks**: To mellow the flavor and enhance its smoothness. - **In cocktails**: Suitable for whiskey-based classics like Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
How does Westward honor its brewing heritage?
Westward incorporates brewing techniques into its whiskey production. The whiskey starts as a craft beer, using a mash of two-row malted barley and yeast strains common in beer brewing. The wort undergoes a long, cold fermentation process, preserving nuanced flavors before distillation in copper pot stills. This brewing-inspired approach results in a whiskey with deep malt and caramelized notes.
What sets American single malt whiskey apart as a category?
American single malt whiskey, like Westward, must be made with 100% malted barley and distilled at a single U.S. distillery. It also must be aged in oak barrels and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof. The category's flexibility allows for innovation, such as the use of different oak types and regional ingredients, making it distinct from Scotch and other single malts worldwide.
What food pairings work well with Westward American Single Malt Whiskey?
Westward pairs excellently with rich and flavorful foods. Try it with grilled meats, aged cheeses, or desserts like dark chocolate cake or apple pie to complement its caramel, fruit, and honey notes.
Where is Westward American Single Malt Whiskey produced?
Westward is produced in Portland, Oregon, a location that plays a vital role in shaping its identity. The region's cool climate and emphasis on craft brewing contribute to the distinct, bold character of this whiskey.
How does Westward compare to bourbon?
While bourbon is made primarily from corn and aged in charred new oak barrels, Westward American Single Malt is crafted exclusively from malted barley. This gives it a more malt-forward and aromatic profile, with flavors like stone fruit, coconut, and honey, compared to bourbon's sweeter, corn-driven notes like caramel and vanilla.
Does Westward offer a cask strength version?
Yes, Westward offers a cask strength variation of its American single malt, which features intensified flavors of dark chocolate, mint, and white pepper, along with a higher proof for those seeking a bolder experience.
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