American Single Malt Whiskey Definition Ratified by the TTB
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has officially recognised American Single Malt Whiskey as a distinct whiskey category — a landmark ruling that has been years in the making and marks a pivotal moment for the spirits industry in the United States and beyond. The ruling, published officially on 18 December, is set to take effect on 19 January 2025.
For years, single malt has been produced in America but not defined and protected in regulations as it has been in nations around the world, most specifically in Scotland. Following a years-long campaign by the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC) and its distiller-members, and a period of public comment, the latest ruling issued by the TTB now establishes the category’s unique standards of identity.
Per the TTB, American Single Malt Whiskey is now officially defined as:
- Mashed, distilled and aged in the United States
- Distilled entirely at one US distillery
- Distilled to a proof of 160 (80% alcohol by volume) or less
- Distilled from a fermented mash of 100% malted barley
- Stored in oak barrels (used, uncharred new, or charred new) with a maximum capacity of 700 litres
- Bottled at not less than 80 proof (40% alcohol by volume)
A further designation of “straight” American Single Malt requires a minimum aging period of two years.
Steve Hawley, President of the ASMWC, welcomed the ruling: “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. It’s a momentous day for American Single Malt whiskey, and this is just the beginning of a bright future for the category.”
We were proud to partner with the ASMWC earlier in 2024 to create the Certificate in American Single Malt Whisky. Edinburgh Whisky Academy Founder & Managing Director, Kirsty McKerrow, said: “The Certificate course offers a comprehensive understanding of the category, from its creation and production methods to the many nuances which make it so interesting as a category. Together with the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission, we aim to educate and inspire a wider audience of whisky enthusiasts and industry professionals, helping to further advance and solidify American Single Malt Whisky’s place on the world stage.”
The Certificate in American Single Malt Whiskey features in-depth discussions from ASMWC founding members Jared Himstedt, Tyler Pederson, Murphy Quint & Steve Hawley.
By providing a standardised definition, the TTB has ensured that consumers can trust the authenticity of American Single Malt Whiskey, while producers can continue to push boundaries and elevate the category.
Find out more about our Certificate in American Single Malt Whisky and join us in celebrating this exciting and emerging category.
