A HISTORIC MOMENT
Westland Distillery, a pioneer in crafting exceptional American single malts, marks a decisive milestone in its history today. True to its commitment to innovation and authenticity, Westland is proud to announce a significant step forward for the distillery and “The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission.”
The U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has officially announced the creation of the “American Single Malt Whiskey” category, set to take effect on January 19, 2025. This decision is a major milestone, marking the first introduction of a new category in federal American regulations in 52 years.
For Westland Distillery, a trailblazer in this movement, this recognition is the culmination of over a decade of work. Alongside more than 150 American distilleries, Westland played a key role within “The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission” to promote and define this category.
Standards of Excellence for a Unique Identity
American Single Malt Whiskey is built on specific criteria established by the Commission, ensuring impeccable quality and authenticity. It must meet the following standards:
– Made from 100% malted barley,
– Distilled and aged entirely on U.S. soil,
– Distilled to a maximum of 80% alcohol by volume,
– Aged in oak barrels with a maximum capacity of 700 liters,
– No addition of neutral alcohol,
– No added coloring, except for caramel coloring, which must be indicated on the label.
“This moment marks a historic turning point, not only for our distillery but for the entire American whiskey community. We are proud to have contributed to the establishment of a category that reflects the diversity and creativity of our terroir,” said Jason Moore, Managing Director of Westland.
Westland offers a full range of whiskeys, led by its American Single Malt, a true emblem of its dedication to quality. Staying true to its pioneering spirit, the distillery continuously pushes the boundaries of innovation by showcasing the richness of its terroir through an exploratory collection focused on grain selection and barrel diversity.
About Westland Distillery
In the U.S., while bourbon has reigned supreme for generations, Westland, owned by Rémy Cointreau since 2017, has chosen a different path: American single malts. To revisit a style long considered the Scots’ domain and assert its identity, the Seattle distillery relies on its terroir, reconnecting whiskey to agriculture.
About Rémy Cointreau France Distribution
Rémy Cointreau France Distribution is the French distribution subsidiary of the Rémy Cointreau family group. Established in April 2021 and led by Fabrice Jarlaud for the direct division, it is entirely dedicated to marketing its innovative brands in the traditional network. These include Westland, founded in 2010 in the Seattle region, crafting American single malts; Domaine des Hautes Glaces, a distillery producing organic whiskies and eaux-de-vie in the French Alps since 2009; LOUIS XIII, the exceptional cognac from Maison Rémy Martin; Telmont Champagne; Belle de Brillet, St Rémy brandy, and Mount Gay rum from Barbados.