First Impressions
Westland American Single Malt — from the Seattle craft distillery that pioneered American single malt. Founded 2010 by Matt Hofmann (Forbes 30 Under 30, American Master Distiller of the Year 2018, trained at Heriot-Watt University). Rémy Cointreau acquired Westland in 2017, attracted by the Bruichladdich comparison.
Five Malts
Uses five different malts: Washington Select Pale, Munich, Extra Special, Brown, and Pale Chocolate. Aged approximately 40 months in new American oak, ex-bourbon, and ex-Oloroso sherry casks. Non-chill filtered, 46%. The five-malt concept creates a depth unusual in American whisky.
Tasting
Maple syrup and green apple nose with chocolate and vanilla custard. Creamy, velvet palate of baked apple, honey, and nougat. Medium finish with oak, malt, and caramel-banana. Superb depth from the five malts.
The Verdict
Westland American Single Malt earns an 8 — a benchmark American single malt with fabulous depth. At £50, excellent value for the quality and innovation. Matt Hofmann's five-malt concept helped define an entirely new category. The Bruichladdich of America.
