U.S. whiskey drinkers and distillers have a new reason to celebrate as the Alcohol & Tobacco Tax & Trade Bureau (TTB) formally announces the official definition for American Single Malt Whiskey. This move marks the culmination of nearly a decade of advocacy by the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC), industry leaders, and thousands of supporters.

The new standard of identity, which goes into effect on January 19, 2025, firmly establishes what qualifies as American Single Malt Whiskey. According to the TTB, the category must adhere to the following criteria:

• Mashed, distilled, and aged entirely in the United States
• Produced at a single U.S. distillery
• Made from 100% malted barley
• Distilled to a proof of 160 or less
• Aged in oak barrels (charred new, uncharred new, or used) with a maximum capacity of 700 liters
• Bottled at no less than 80 proof

“This is a landmark ruling by TTB and validation for years’ worth of work by American distillers to define American Single Malt,” said Steve Hawley, President of the ASMWC. “It has been over 52 years since a new type of whiskey was added to our federal regulations. This signals to the world that American Single Malt Whiskey is unique and deserves to be protected, just like other whiskey categories in the U.S.”

The decision follows a period of public commentary and extensive lobbying. In July, over 100 distillers, along with the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), joined the ASMWC in submitting a formal letter to the TTB. By August, the TTB had received over 1,000 letters advocating for the establishment of clear guidelines.

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Consumer Confidence and Global Growth

The TTB’s ruling is expected to drive both domestic and international growth for American Single Malt. “Now that the category is formally defined, we’ll see current producers expand production, many more of the nearly 3,000 U.S. distilleries adding single malt to their portfolios, and more American Single Malt finding its way to shelves overseas,” added Hawley.

The ASMWC is also working with international governing bodies to establish similar protections abroad, ensuring the integrity of the category.

Celebrating the Milestone

To mark the occasion, the ASMWC will host events across the U.S., celebrating the ratification and educating consumers about the category. The Commission has also launched a certification program for retailers, bars, and restaurants that requires dedicated American Single Malt Whiskey shelves and menu listings.

“We’re just beginning to tap into what this category can achieve,” said Hawley. “With clear definitions in place, we now have the tools to build trust and recognition for American Single Malt Whiskey worldwide.”

To learn more about the latest developments in the space of American Single Malt Whiskey and how to leverage this milestone while also navigating the economic challenges and consumer demand, join us for an upcoming webinar hosted by Sid Patel, CEO of Beverage Trade Network. The webinar dives deeper into the future of American Single Malt Whiskey, and how businesses can take advantage of this growing category. Register here to secure your spot!

About the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission

Founded in 2016, the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission represents nearly 100 member producers from across the U.S. Its mission is to define, promote, and protect the American Single Malt Whiskey category both domestically and internationally.

This historic moment is not just a win for distillers but also for consumers, offering them a new category to explore that reflects the craftsmanship and innovation of American whiskey-making. 

Header image sourced from Westward Whiskey.

Related Links:
The Rise of American Single Malt Whiskey: A New Chapter in Whiskey History
Crafting Whiskey with Purpose: Joseph O'Sullivan’s Vision at Minden Mill