American Single Malt Whiskey might be the newest legally recognized whiskey alongside industry staples like Bourbon and Rye. Distillers of American Single Malt Whiskey have long requested a distinct category for this type of whiskey as consumer awareness continues to grow and products gain international recognition. TTB acknowledged the feedback and published a proposal in the Federal Register on July 29, 2022, to accommodate the demands of the industry.
The proposed amendment adds a new standard of identity for whiskey under 27 CFR 5.143 and allows distillers to classify American Single Malt Whiskey as a type of distilled spirit. Under TTB’s proposal, for a product to be labeled American Single Malt Whiskey, the product must be mashed, matured, and distilled at a single United States distillery from a fermented mash of 100% malted barley, stored in any oak barrel not exceeding a capacity of 700 liters, is distilled to a proof not exceeding 160°, and is bottled at not less than 80° proof.
A new category of whiskey has not been added in decades, and the proposal has created a lot of excitement. Supporters believe adding a standard of identity for American Single Malt Whiskey will help producers and consumers alike. Creating a distinctive category helps consumers recognize and have confidence in the product they are buying in what can sometimes be an overwhelming market. Producers also expect growth in export and competition as it can formally be recognized domestically and internationally.
TTB’s proposed rule is open to public comment through September 27, 2022.
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