Whiskey made from corn,rye, wheat or barley
Even though the most known product coming from USA is Bourbon and despite of the general tendency to think all American whiskey is bourbon, truth is than in the USA they make more than just bourbon. Normally the product is named after the main ingredient (corn, rye, wheat, barely).
It is not necessary to age the product in order to call it whiskey, as it is in the EU; therefore, the minimum aging process takes 6 months. When it reaches two years of maturation, we can already refer to that aged product as Straight Whiskey. American blended whiskies tend to combine “straight whiskey” with non-aged whiskies.
Rye Whiskey
Legally, in the United States there are two types of rye whiskey: ‘Rye Whiskey’ which by law must use a minimum percentage of 51% rye in its blend, distilled to a maximum of 80% volume and aged in new toasted oak barrels at a maximum of 62.5% ABV for at least 1 year. On the other hand, Straight Rye Whiskey, which in addition to meeting the conditions of Rye Whiskey, must be bottled without blending with other distillates and aged for a minimum of two years.
Straight Rye Whiskey) unblended
Blended Straight* Rye Whiskey a blend of various Rye
* The term Straight means “pure”.
The result is a 45 proof whiskey with a reddish colour. The nose is generous with notes of vanilla, honey and spice.
The entry on the palate is dry and clean, leaving behind a sweet nuance, with hints of caramel, due to the ageing. The finish is bitter, smooth and does not burn the throat. Elegant and aromatic, with a spicy touch, ideal for incorporating into classic cocktails.
American Single Malt Whiskey
American Single Malt Whiskey is now an official category. The recent recognition by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) marks a pivotal moment for American whiskey, establishing it as a unique and strategic category within the global market.
Although the United States is better known for bourbon and rye, American Single Malt Whiskey is emerging as one of the most exciting and fastest-growing styles in the country. This milestone not only validates the quality of the product but also positions American whiskey as a strong competitor on the international stage.
Key Characteristics of American Single Malt Whiskey:
- 100% malted barley as the sole ingredient.
- Entirely distilled at a single distillery, ensuring authenticity.
- Malted, distilled, and matured in the United States, highlighting its origin and excellence.
- Aged in oak casks with a maximum capacity of 700 liters.
- Distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% alcohol by volume).
- Bottled at a minimum of 80 proof (40% alcohol by volume), ensuring intensity and flavor.
While it echoes the traditions of the old world, this whiskey offers a modern and unique reinterpretation of the style that deserves to be explored.
