Today marks the first day of official recognition for American Single Malt Whiskey.
American Single Malt Whiskey Commission
Eight years ago, a group of American Single Malt Whiskey distillers, including Copperworks, came together to form the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC) with a shared goal: to establish a clear identity for American Single Malt Whiskey. This group worked collaboratively to develop a model definition for the category, laying the groundwork for its growth and recognition.
In 2022, with significant advocacy from the ASMWC, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax & Trade Bureau (TTB) took a historic step by proposing a new rule to formalize the “Standard of Identity” for American Single Malt Whiskey. This proposal sparked a nationwide conversation among distillers, who weighed in during the public comment period to help shape the definition and refine the parameters of what truly constitutes American Single Malt Whiskey.
Unique category of whiskey
Now, after years of deliberation and input from distillers across the country, the TTB has finalized the legal definition, officially codifying this unique category of whiskey. Today, we raise a glass to celebrate this milestone—a moment that paves the way for a bright and promising future for American Single Malt Whiskey.
The codified definition of American Single Malt Whiskey:
- 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% by volume)
