Seattle’s own Copperworks Distilling Co. has just dropped an exciting new whiskey that’s turning heads among craft spirit enthusiasts. Known as the Copperworks Washington Peated American Single Malt Whiskey – Single Cask No. 497, this limited-edition release highlights the unique flavors of Washington State with a bold twist. With only 200 bottles available, it’s a rare treat for whiskey lovers looking to taste something truly special.
A Local Twist on Single Malt Whiskey
What sets this whiskey apart starts with its roots. Copperworks crafted it using 100% Fritz variety barley grown in Washington’s fertile Skagit Valley. This isn’t your typical single malt story, though. During the malting process, the barley gets smoked with peat sourced right from Washington, giving it a smoky flavor that’s distinct from the Scottish classics. After brewing and distilling, the spirit spent 4 years and 3 months aging in new American oak casks. The result? A cask-strength whiskey bottled at a hefty 59.7% ABV (that’s 119.4 proof), packing a punch of flavor in every sip.
Image credit: Copperworks Distilling Co.
Jason Parker, the President and Co-Founder of Copperworks, shared some insight into how this release came to be. “When we first bottled our Peatsmith American Single Malt Whiskey, we decided to hold back Single Cask No. 497 and let it mature a bit longer,” he said. “After almost a year more in the cask, it’s turned into something incredible—smoky and earthy from the peat, but smooth and rich from the malt. It’s a one-of-a-kind whiskey that’s full of character.”
What It Tastes Like
If you’re wondering what to expect when you pop the cork, Copperworks has you covered with some detailed tasting notes. First, the smell hits you with a mix of sweet and smoky vibes. Imagine caramelized sugar and honey mingling with the scent of fresh cake batter. Then, there’s a woody twist—think red cedar and driftwood warmed by the sun—alongside a hint of moss. As the smoky side kicks in, you’ll pick up charred wood, brisket bark, roasted almonds, black cherry, dark chocolate, and even a dash of smoked cinnamon.
Image credit: Copperworks Distilling Co.
Take a sip, and it’s a whole new adventure. The taste starts with salted caramel and cinnamon-sugar graham crackers, then shifts to smoky notes reminiscent of a beach bonfire or mesquite-smoked meats. There’s a fruity layer too—raisins, fruit leather, and a bittersweet orange kick like dry Curaçao. Add in a sprinkle of smoked salt and fennel, and it all wraps up with a touch of hot honey. The finish sticks around, leaving behind salted caramel, brown sugar, and molasses, spiced up with sweet cinnamon, ginger snaps, and a cool hint of eucalyptus.
Why This Whiskey Matters
This release isn’t just about great taste—it’s part of a bigger story. American craft distilleries like Copperworks are stepping up to put their own spin on single malt whiskey, moving beyond the usual bourbon and rye. By using Washington-grown barley and local peat, they’re creating a Pacific Northwest style that reflects the region’s land and resources. It’s all about showcasing “terroir”—that special combo of local ingredients and environment that gives a spirit its unique personality.
With Single Cask No. 497, Copperworks is proving that Washington can hold its own in the growing American single malt scene. The extra maturation time has turned this whiskey into a bold, complex drink that stands out from the crowd.
How to Get Your Hands on It
Only 200 bottles of this gem were made, each one a 700ml beauty priced at $89.99 (plus tax and shipping). If you’re in Seattle or nearby, you can swing by one of Copperworks’ two tasting rooms to snag a bottle in person. There’s the original Copperworks Seattle Distillery & Tasting Room on Alaskan Way, or the newer spot in Kenmore. Not local? No worries—you can order online through the distillery’s website and have it shipped right to your door.
