TTB OFFICIALLY RECOGNIZES AMERICAN SINGLE MALT AS A WHISKEY CATEGORY

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has officially recognised American single malt as a distinct whiskey category, marking a significant milestone for the American spirits industry. After more than two years of lobbying by the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC), the ruling solidifies the category as a legally protected style.

A Landmark Decision for American Whiskey

The TTB’s long-awaited final ruling came after an initial proposal in July 2022, followed by a 60-day public commenting period. American single malt producers have since been advocating for formal recognition, emphasising how a defined standard would enhance the category’s legitimacy and growth.

“This is a landmark ruling from the TTB that further cements our standing on the global stage in whiskey,” said Steve Hawley, president of the ASMWC. “We applaud TTB for hearing the call from distillers, purveyors, and fans of American single malt, and formalising a definition that supports and protects our producers both here and abroad.”

Key Standards for American Single Malt

Under the new TTB guidelines, American single malt whiskey must adhere to these specific criteria:

• Ingredients: Made from a 100% malted barley mash produced in the US.

• Production: Distilled at a single US distillery, with a maximum distillation proof of 160 (80% ABV).

• Barrel Requirements: Aged in used, charred new, or uncharred new oak barrels with a maximum capacity of 700 litres.

• Storage: Must be stored only in the US.

• Additives: No neutral spirits or flavouring agents are allowed, except for disclosed caramel colouring.

• Straight Designation: To be labeled “straight,” it must be aged for at least two years.

The ruling will be published on December 18, 2024, and officially take effect on January 19, 2025.

Industry Reactions

The spirits industry has warmly welcomed the decision, with prominent producers celebrating its significance.

“Americans have been distilling whiskey for centuries, and I’m thrilled to see the TTB finally announce American single malt as an official and protected category,” said Gareth H. Moore, CEO of Virginia Distillery Company and ASMWC treasurer. “This monumental moment will broaden the American whiskey landscape, fuelling innovation and premiumsation.”

Chris Swonger, president and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the US (Discus), echoed this sentiment: “This is great news for America’s distillers and spirits consumers. Having this formal definition will protect the integrity of American single malt whiskey and drive creativity and innovation.”

A Growing Category

American single malt whiskey has gained traction in recent years, thanks to pioneering distilleries like Westland, Westward, Stranahan’s, St. George, Balcones, and Cedar Ridge. Larger brands such as Jack Daniel’s, Jim Beam, and Bulleit have also entered the category, expanding its visibility.

Cedar Ridge master distiller Murphy Quint highlighted the potential retail impact: “One of our biggest challenges has been educating whiskey consumers on what American single malt is, especially without a legal definition. This new framework provides the foundation we need to establish a clear and consistent identity.”

With this recognition, American single malt is poised for a bright future, supported by clear standards and an energised spirits community ready to innovate and expand the category globally.