Westward Whiskey is an American single malt, born in Portland, Oregon, with a unique story and an even more distinctive flavor profile. In this article, we will follow its journey from its beginnings in 2004 to its current status as a respected brand, including insights into its production process, standard offerings, and even limited-edition bottlings.
We’ll also talk about the ingredients typically used to make it, as well as pairing options and where to find it, both on store shelves and in bars and restaurants. If you’ve been on the hunt for the perfect Westward Whiskey or are simply curious about it, our guide will equip you with pretty much everything you need to know.
Westward Whiskey: An Introduction
Westward Whiskey is an American single malt whiskey hailing from Portland, Oregon. Unlike traditional single malts made solely from malted barley, Westward incorporates a unique process that blends elements of different whiskey styles.
Westward starts by brewing an American pale ale using locally sourced malted barley. This ale is then double-pot distilled, similar to Scotch whisky. Finally, the whiskey is matured in new, charred American oak barrels, reminiscent of the bourbon aging process. This is what makes the spirit complex and flavorful.
When poured neat, Westward whiskey has a rich amber color. On the nose you’ll find aromas of orange peel, caramel, and toasted nuts. The taste is bold and well-rounded, with notes of stone fruit, vanilla, honey, coconut, and a hint of oak on the finish.
While Westward can certainly be enjoyed on its own either neat or on the rocks, it also shines in cocktails. Its unique flavor profile makes it a versatile base for more or less any concoction you can come up with.
Westward Whiskey is a relatively young brand, established in 2004, but it has quickly gained recognition for its delicious whiskey. Though it’s not considered a classic drink in the traditional sense, it’s becoming increasingly popular among many whiskey enthusiasts and craft spirit aficionados.
What Is the Alcohol Content of Westward Whiskey?
Westward Whiskey has a standard alcohol content of 45% ABV (90 proof). This is consistent across their core expressions, including their Original Single Malt and Pinot Noir Cask Finish, but not their Single Malt Cask Strength, which is 62.5% ABV (125 proof).
It’s important to note that Westward also occasionally releases special limited-edition bottlings with varying alcohol content, but their core offerings will typically be 45% ABV standard.
What Is the History of Westward Whiskey?
Westward Whiskey was born in 2004 from the vision of two friends: Christian Krogstad and Thomas Mooney. Inspired by Portland’s thriving craft brewing scene, they wanted to create a whiskey that captured the American spirit with a distinct Northwest twist.
This was followed by the bold idea that set this brand’s foundation: marrying American ingenuity with the established traditions of single malt whiskey. They crafted their signature expression, the Original Single Malt, by brewing an American pale ale from scratch using locally sourced ingredients.
The ale was then double-distilled in custom-designed pot stills and finally matured in new, charred American oak barrels. This process, blending brewing techniques with single malt traditions, resulted in a whiskey that truly does taste unique.
While the essence of Westward Whiskey, exemplified by the Original Single Malt, has remained largely unchanged since its inception, the brand has embraced evolution. Over the years, they’ve expanded their offerings with limited-edition bottlings and cask-finished expressions. These releases show off their versatility and allow them to experiment with different flavor profiles while staying true to their core identity.
Where Is Westward Whiskey From?
Westward Whiskey is from Portland, Oregon. The city’s vibrant craft brewing scene heavily influenced its founders, inspiring them to create an American whiskey that embodies the true spirit of the Northwest. Even today, Westward Whiskey remains true to its roots. The distillery and production facility are still located in Portland, with every bottle crafted with the same dedication and local inspiration that sparked its creation.
When Was Westward Whiskey Created?
Westward Whiskey was created in 2004. With the vision of creating a unique American whiskey from the Northwest, but with a fresh and innovative approach, Westward began their legacy of experimentation by blending American brewing traditions with established single malt whiskey practices, paving the way for a well-regarded American whiskey.
What Types of Westward Whiskey Are There?
While primarily known for their single malt whiskeys, Westward has expanded their portfolio to cater to diverse palates over the years. Here’s a brief overview of their core expressions:
- Original Single Malt: The foundation of Westward’s offerings, this expression boasts a complex flavor profile with notes of orange peel, caramel, and toasted nuts.
- Pinot Noir Cask Finish: This expression takes the Original Single Malt a step further, undergoing an additional finishing process in Pinot Noir wine casks.
- Single Malt Cask Strength: Bottled at cask strength, meaning it’s diluted only to reach its bottling proof without further alteration, this whiskey showcases the full, unadulterated character of the spirit.
Westward also occasionally releases special limited-edition bottlings with unique cask finishes or grain variations. Examples of these highly sought-after bottles include their Single Malt Rye, finished in rye whiskey barrels, and their Pinot Noir Cask Strength, offering an intensified version of their popular Pinot Noir Cask Finish.
Westward Whiskey Original
The flagship whiskey for this brand, Westward Whiskey Original is a smooth and flavorful whiskey you can get at an affordable price. It has an orange peel and caramel toasted nut aroma that's followed by a coconut, vanilla, and stone fruit palate. The finish is roasted fruit and toffee with hints of oak. While it has a smooth flavor, it still packs a punch because it's bottled at 90 proof, or 45% ABV.
Westward Whiskey Original is made from two-row malted barley that's locally sourced from the American Northwest, and it's fermented with a craft ale yeast. Top this off with the double distillation process and the maturation process in Oregon’s dry summers and wet winters, and you have an award-winning whiskey at a fraction of the price.
Westward Whiskey Pinot Noir Cask
Westward Whiskey also makes a delicious and smooth pinot noir cask whiskey that's aged in pinot noir casks, which helps the whiskey take on a smooth, wine-like flavor. This whiskey was made as a tribute to Willamette Valley wine country, and the whiskey is vibrant, while maintaining a whiskey flavor. What makes this whiskey special is that it's aged for another two years in French oak wine barrels on top of the company’s original process.
The result is a whiskey that's perfect for sipping. It has a tobacco and freshly cut grass aroma, with hints of fruit, and a raisin and fig palate. Westward Whiskey Pinot Noir Cask then finishes with notes of dark chocolate, rich malt, and oak. It's bottled at 45% ABV or 90 proof, but at cask strength, it's 125 proof.
Westward Whiskey Stout Cask
Westward Whiskey has a knack for honoring the work of others in Oregon and does so again with the Westward Whiskey Stout Cask. This whiskey pays homage to the rich and vibrant brewing culture of Oregon. The company has been trading their barrels with craft beer brewers who provide them with stout-seasoned barrels. While the whiskey begins as the company’s flagship whiskey, it's aged for another year in these stout casks.
The result is a strong whiskey that comes in at 46% ABV (92 proof), but it maintains a smooth flavor. It has a hazelnut, honeycomb, and roasted barley nose that's followed by a milk chocolate, almond toffee, and banana palate. Lastly, it finishes with chocolate almond, citrus, mint, and vanilla. For people who love craft beer and whiskey, you can't go wrong with the Westward Whiskey Stout Cask.
Westward Whiskey Milestone
Westward Whiskey Milestone is one of the rarest and most exclusive batches that Westward Whiskey produces. It's a testament to the brewing and distilling knowledge of the team at Westward Whiskey and it managed to win the Best American Single Malt Award in 2023 with 95 points. While it's on the expensive side, the smooth taste and gentle finish are worth every penny.
Westward Whiskey Milestone is bottled at 86 proof (43% ABV), so it's not as strong as some of the brand’s other whiskeys. This makes it ideal for sipping neat or with a splash of water. It has a candied citrus aroma that's followed by a raisin, plum, light butterscotch, and cinnamon spice palate. The finish consists of brown sugar, lingering vanilla, and rich dried fruit.
Westward Whiskey Rum Cask
Looking for a whiskey that has more of a rum flavor to it? Or are you a rum fan who wants to experiment with whiskey options? If so, Westward Whiskey Rum Cask is one of the best options for you. In fact, the founder of the company has roots in Guatemala and went out of their way to have this whiskey and rum combination made. It starts out as Westward Whiskey Original, then it's aged in Magdalena rum casks.
The result is a whiskey that has rum-like flavor notes. It has a clover and honey aroma that's followed by a tropical fruit and white peach palate. The finish includes molasses, waffle cone, and tangerine. Westward Whiskey Rum Cask is bottled at 100 proof, so 50% ABV, which makes it one of the brand’s stronger products.
Westward Whiskey Old Grad - 2024
Westward Whiskey Old Grad is made to support the USMA ‘94 Class Fund, so proceeds from the purchase of this whiskey go to a good cause. The whiskey is created by blending new barrels with legacy barrels. While a rare process, it enhances the whiskey with a flavor you can't find elsewhere. Plus, each barrel used in the process shares its original barreling date with an important day in West Point History. For the 2024 version, Master Blender Miles Munroe mixed barrels 765 and 757 with legacy barrels 717, 29, and 34.
The result is a smooth-tasting whiskey that has a dried cherry aroma. Its palate is pear, fruits, and even a little bit of tobacco. The finish is apple pie, vanilla, and almonds. It's bottled at 94 proof, which is 47% ABV.
Westward Whiskey Single Barrel No.63 - 2019
The single barrel whiskey no.63 was inspired by the Cascade Mountains in Washington, so it's one of the few whiskey products that wasn't inspired by the company’s roots in Oregon. While the inspiration is a bit different, it's the same high-quality whiskey you can expect from this brand.
The whiskey is made with 100% malted barley and matures in a barrel that gives it a vanilla and baking spice aroma. Ultimately, it's on the coffee side when you compare it to some other whiskey flavors. However, you'll also notice hints of toffee, apple, cinnamon, dried orchid fruit, and even light citrus. It's bottled at 90 proof, which is 45% ABV.
What Ingredients Are in Westward Whiskey?
Westward’s core expressions, which include the Original Single Malt, Pinot Noir Cask Finish, and Single Malt Cask Strength, all share the same foundation of standard ingredients:
- Malted Barley: Sourced locally in the Pacific Northwest, the malted barley serves as the grain base, providing the foundation for the whiskey’s flavor profile.
- Yeast: Westward utilizes craft ale yeast during the brewing process, contributing unique flavor characteristics that distinguish their whiskey from traditional single malts.
- Water: As with any distilled spirit, water plays a crucial role in Westward Whiskey – they use pristine water sourced locally in Oregon.
- New, Charred American Oak Barrels: These barrels lend the whiskey its signature amber color and contribute various flavors, including vanilla, caramel, and toasted notes, during the aging process.
It’s important to note that Westward does not disclose the specific yeast strain they use since that is a proprietary element of their unique brewing process and makes their spirit unique.
How Much Does Westward Whiskey Usually Cost?
The exact price that you’ll end up paying for a bottle of Westward Whiskey will change depending on your location, choice of retailer, and specific expression, but here’s a general overview of what you can expect to pay:
Standard Bottles, which include the Original Single Malt will run you about $74.95 to $84.95 per 750ml bottle. Also included in these offerings are the Pinot Noir Cask Finish and Single Malt Cask Strength, both of which can be bought for between $89.95 and $99.95 per 750ml bottle.
If you’re heading to a bar or restaurant for your fix, prices for individual pours of Westward Whiskey will naturally be higher than retail prices due to overhead costs and markup. Expect to pay between $12 and $20 for a single pour.
What Is the Best Way to Enjoy Westward Whiskey?
Neat or on the rocks. Not only is it the most traditional way to experience Westward’s full flavor profile, it’s also one of the best. For neat pours, simply pour the desired amount into a rocks glass and savor it slowly, letting your palate appreciate the different aromas and flavors.
Adding a few ice cubes will make it an ‘on the rocks’ drink, which can slightly dilute the whiskey and make it slightly cooler. This is the way to go if neat pours are too strong for your taste.
Westward’s combination of different flavors makes it a good base for lots of cocktails as well. If you’re looking for options, here are a few popular ones:
- Westward Old Fashioned: This classic cocktail uses Westward whiskey, sugar, bitters, and an orange peel to create a rich and balanced drink.
- Westward Manhattan: Similar to the Old Fashioned, this cocktail uses Westward whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters to deliver a slightly sweeter and more complex flavor profile.
- Westward Highball: This simple yet refreshing drink combines Westward whiskey with ginger ale and a lime wedge, offering a light and bubbly option.
Westward Whiskey goes great with a ton of different foods, too. Its bold flavors best complement rich dishes like grilled meats, hearty stews, or savory cheeses. It also has fruity notes, which can harmonize with lighter fare like smoked salmon or fruit salads.
While Westward Whiskey is best enjoyed neat or in cocktails, if mixers are more your thing, you can definitely use them to create a more personal drinking experience. Popular mixers to go with it include ginger ale, club soda, or even high-quality fruit juices.
How to Choose a Good Westward Whiskey
Start by figuring out what your taste is. If you enjoy classic single malt flavors, the Original Single Malt is a great starting point, but for fruity and spicy notes, the Pinot Noir Cask Finish might be a better choice. Alternatively, if an unadulterated experience is what you’re after, the Single Malt Cask Strength gives you the full power of the spirit.
Typically, if you’re new to Westward or whiskey in general, the core expressions will be the best starting points. They are widely available and have a very diverse range of flavors from which you can discover your preferences.
Once you’re through that, you can move on to the limited-edition bottlings, which are fantastic for experienced drinkers wanting exclusive experiences. Be prepared for potentially higher price points and limited availability, though.
Where Can You Find Westward Whiskey?
Most well-stocked liquor stores will carry Westward’s core expressions like the Original Single Malt and Pinot Noir Cask Finish. Those who prefer buying online can get it right here at Speakeasy Co from the convenience of your home.
Many bars and restaurants, especially those with a focus on craft spirits, will also have Westward Whiskey available by the pour if that’s more to your taste.
Westward Whiskey FAQs
Still have questions about Westward Whiskey? We've got you covered.
Is Westward Whiskey Gluten-Free?
While Westward uses barley, a gluten-containing grain, during the distillation process, most of the gluten protein is removed. Westward states on their website that their whiskey is generally considered safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Is Westward Whiskey “Bourbon”?
No, Westward Whiskey is not bourbon. While it shares some similarities with bourbon, such as being aged in new, charred American oak barrels, it’s actually different in a number of ways. Mainly, it’s not bourbon because Westward uses malted barley as its primary grain, whereas bourbon must use at least 51% corn.
Is Westward a Good Whiskey for Beginners?
Westward’s Original Single Malt can be a good starting point for whiskey beginners since it’s relatively smooth and has an approachable flavor profile. However, if you’re entirely new to whiskey, you might consider starting with a lighter-bodied spirit or trying a Westward Old-Fashioned cocktail – the sweetness and dilution will ease you into the experience.
The Secrets of Westward Whiskey: Uncorked
That covers just about everything about Westward Whiskey, from its unique history and approach to its diverse offerings and all the different ways to enjoy it. We went through everything from its standard ingredients and popular variations to where to find it and how to choose the perfect bottle for your taste, leaving no barriers between you and your whiskey.
With that said, to all the seasoned connoisseurs and beginners alike, we hope we’ve helped you figure out whether Westward Whiskey is the one for you!
If you're new to Westward Whiskey, we recommend starting with their flagship product, Westward Whiskey Original:
