Stranahan’s Responds to TTB’s American Single Malt Standard

As a pioneering American Single Malt, Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey is excited about the proposed designation of the American Single Malt category established by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau’s (TTB). The definition of American Single Malt will allow the distillery to continue pursuing their commitment to category innovation and the craft of unique, premium spirits.

Stranahan’s is thrilled that the designation allows for distilling experimentation and a freedom for producers across the United States to make spirits that are uniquely theirs. Stranahan’s takes the tradition of excellent single malt distilling, commonly associated with Irish and Scottish whiskeys, and infuses the American spirit of innovation and advancement. Specifically, the TTB designation will allow American Single Malt producers to use new or used barrels, which grants Stranahan’s the ability to continue developing new products and blending different whiskey profiles.

Stranahan’s Rocky Mountain Single Malts are unique to the distillery and to Colorado. The distillery has pioneered the American Single Malt category with a dedication to hand-producing their whiskeys from barley to bottle in small batches in Denver. Coupled with the distillery’s unique high-altitude production process is the emphasis on premium, local ingredients, including high-quality malted barley which creates a more nuanced, layered, and complex whiskey. 

The TTB’s announcement is a momentous first step for not only whiskey, but distilled spirits generally. A whiskey category definition has not been established by TTB in roughly three decades.

Owen Martin, Head Distiller at Stranahan’s, said of the proposed designation, “We believe this established identity will amplify consumer awareness of the American Single Malt category in the United States and beyond. With the category being officiated, American Single Malts will start to compete with traditional whiskey categories. We’re thrilled to be at the forefront of this recognition and to continue doing what we do best – create the country’s number one American Single Malt.”

Steve Hawley, President of the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission added, “The TTB’s American Single Malt definition will ultimately protect, educate, promote, and grow the category. With dedicated producers like Stranahan’s working as part of our collective, we’re able to certify a future where consumers are well-informed about the American Single Malt category and distilleries can build their brands and craft excellent whiskey.” 

The official American Single Malt definition set forward by TTB is:

  • Made from 100% malted barley
  • Distilled entirely at one distillery
  • Mashed, distilled and matured in the United States of America
  • Matured in oak casks of a capacity not exceeding 700 liters
  • Distilled to no more than 160 (U.S.) proof (80% alcohol by volume)
  • Bottled at 80 (U.S.) proof or more (40% alcohol by volume)

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