Westward Whiskey, the vanguard of American whiskey, has unveiled its crowning achievement for 2023 with the introduction of the Westward Whiskey Cognac Cask. This distinguished release marks the fourth and final installment of the year from the illustrious Westward Whiskey Club, an exclusive enclave for aficionados of the amber elixir.
Crafted under the meticulous eye of Westward's Lead Blender, Miles Munroe, the Cognac Cask is a testament to the art of whiskey-making. This American Single Malt undergoes a meticulous aging process, spending an impressive four years maturing in new American Oak barrels. What sets this release apart is the additional year it luxuriates in Cognac casks that have cradled XO Cognac for over four decades, infusing the spirit with a depth of flavor and complexity rarely seen in the whiskey world.
Munroe, a seasoned maestro in the world of whiskey alchemy, expresses his journey in securing these extraordinary French barrels. "Cognac is one of the world’s most renowned spirits, known for its great history of blending and maturation techniques which creates complexity in the final spirit," Munroe remarks. "Finding these extraordinary French barrels was key to this unique creation, which artfully blends the distinct flavors of American whiskey with the refined profile of a well-aged Cognac."
The nose of the Westward Whiskey Cognac Cask tantalizes the senses with notes of Baklava, candied ginger, forest floor, cloves, and fig jam. As it dances across the palate, one can discern the interplay of plum, melon, vanilla bean, apricot, and freshly baked banana bread. The grand finale unfolds with a cascade of honeydew, butterscotch, candied nuts, and pistachio curd.
This exquisite elixir is presented at a commanding 90 proof, encapsulating the essence of its heritage and craftsmanship. Priced at $99.95, this opulent offering is an exclusive privilege reserved solely for members of the Westward Whiskey Club. As the curtain falls on 2023, Westward Whiskey continues to redefine the boundaries of tradition and elevate the whiskey-drinking experience to unprecedented heights.
The Westward Whiskey Club, inaugurated in 2019, has burgeoned from its Oregonian roots to span across 35 states, making it the most geographically extensive whiskey club associated with a distillery. Members are not merely consumers; they are custodians of an ethos that celebrates American whiskey innovation. Two tiers of membership, the Expedition Club, and the Founder’s Club, offer curated experiences, including exclusive access to club-only releases, events hosted by Westward’s expert team, and an opportunity to partake in the distinctive distillery tours.
In the midst of this whirlwind of exclusivity, Westward Whiskey unveils its tasting notes for the Cognac Cask release, promising an odyssey for the senses. Baklava and candied ginger intermingle with the earthiness of forest floor, while cloves and fig jam weave a tapestry of aromas. The palate, a symphony of plum, melon, vanilla bean, apricot, and banana bread, leads to a crescendo of honeydew, butterscotch, candied nuts, and pistachio curd on the finish.
As the curtains draw on this extraordinary release, Westward Whiskey invites whiskey enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike to join the ranks of the Westward Whiskey Club. With each bottle, they embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary, a journey curated by the hands of the master blender, Miles Munroe, and a testament to the boundless possibilities within the world of American whiskey.
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About Westward Whiskey
Westward Whiskey is an American craft distillery located in Portland, Oregon. Established in 2004, Westward is known for its dedication to producing American single malt whiskey with a focus on quality, craftsmanship, and innovation. The distillery has gained recognition for its unique approach to whiskey-making, embracing the terroir of the Pacific Northwest and showcasing the flavors of the region.
One of the defining features of Westward Whiskey is its use of locally sourced ingredients. The distillery uses Pacific Northwest two-row barley, which is malted in-house, contributing to the distinct character of its whiskey. Westward's commitment to terroir-driven whiskey aligns with the tradition of Scottish single malts while offering a distinctly American expression.
Westward's American single malt whiskey is crafted through a traditional pot still distillation process and matured in new American oak barrels. The aging process takes place in the temperate climate of the Pacific Northwest, allowing the whiskey to interact with the wood and climate, resulting in a well-balanced and nuanced flavor profile.
The flagship product of Westward is its Westward American Single Malt Whiskey, celebrated for its rich and full-bodied character. The whiskey often features notes of malt, honey, fruit, and a touch of oak, showcasing the influence of both the grains and the maturation process.
Westward Whiskey has received acclaim in the world of American craft whiskey, earning awards for its quality and innovation. The distillery's commitment to transparency and craftsmanship is reflected in its production methods and the unique character of its American single malt expressions.
Visitors to the Westward Distillery in Portland can experience guided tours and tastings, gaining insights into the whiskey-making process and the philosophy behind Westward's approach to American single malt. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, I recommend checking the distillery's official website or contacting them directly for the latest information on their products and visitor experiences.
