The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”) issued a final rule, effective January 19, 2025, establishing “American single malt whisky” as an official type of whiskey produced in the United States.
This decision follows petitions and comments from distillers and the American Single Malt Whisky Commission, aiming to provide a clear definition for producers and consumers. (To read comments related to the TTB’s notice of proposed rulemaking, see Docket No. 2002-0007.)
According to the new standard, American single malt whisky must meet the following criteria:
- Production Location: Must be a type of whisky that is mashed, distilled, and aged in the United States.
- Single Distillery: Entirely distilled at one U.S. distillery.
- Mash Composition: Produced from a fermented mash of 100% malted barley.
- Distillation Proof: Distilled to a proof not exceeding 160°.
- Storage: Stored in oak barrels (used, uncharred new, or charred new) with a maximum capacity of 700 liters.
- Bottling Proof: Bottled at not less than 80° proof.
The regulation will also recognize the use of the term “Straight” before “American Single Malt Whisky” for an American single malt whisky that is aged for at least two years in oak barrels (used, uncharred new, or charred new).
This formal recognition is expected to enhance consumer trust and provide clarity in labeling, aligning American single malt whisky with established international standards for single malt spirits.
For more information on wine or alcohol law, please contact Lindsey Zahn.
DISCLAIMER: This blog post is for general information purposes only, is not intended to constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship results. Please consult your own attorney for legal advice