Introducing American Single Malt Whiskey

Litchfield Distillery proudly announces the release of our first American Single Malt Whiskey. This expression is born from Connecticut-grown malted barley, sourced from Thrall Family Farm in Windsor, Connecticut. It is a limited release and special collaboration between Litchfield Distillery and Irene Tan, owner of Canterbury Liquors and founder of Whisky Mentors.

Recently, the United States government recognized the distinctiveness of American Single Malt Whiskey and established it as a unique class of spirits through regulatory measures by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). According to their definition, American Single Malt must be produced from 100% malted barley and distilled at a single distillery in the United States. It must also be aged in new or used charred oak barrels and bottled at a minimum of 40% alcohol by volume.

“We are very excited to introduce an American Single Malt Whiskey into the marketplace,” said Jack Baker, co-parter at Litchfield Distillery. “This new class of spirits opens up an exciting space for us to innovate and showcase our award-winning approach to distilling and aging exceptional spirits.”

Earlier this spring, Irene visited the Distillery to learn more about the operation and inquire about purchasing a single barrel for her store. During the sampling of casks, Jack asked Irene if she would like to try some of the Distillery’s American Single Malt that just turned three years old. After tasting samples from two casks, Irene suggested that the two might be blended together to create an expression that showcases the strongest characteristics of each cask.

Irene has an amazing palate and talent for blending, which she offers through Whisky Mentors. She took home samples from each barrel and spent a couple of weeks blending different percentages until she landed on a blend she felt delivered a fantastic nose, palate and finish. “As most of my customers know, I strive to create blends that deliver an amazing sensorial experience from start to finish,” said Irene. “I am excited that Connecticut now has its own American Single Malt to savor and I am proud to be able to say I helped collaborate on it. I am sure my customers will enjoy it as much as I do!”

Litchfield Distillery aged this single malt for three years in new oak casks that were spiral cut on the inside. These spiral cuts allow the aging spirit to access alternating layers of char and oak, which helps accelerate flavor development. The result is an expression that delivers enticing floral and vanilla notes on the nose, which carry right through to the finish. While bottled at 117 proof, it is exceptionally smooth with robust flavor.

“We are committed to the American Single Malt segment and are bullish on its future,” said Baker. “Part of what makes our single malt unique is that it is distilled from malted barley sourced from Thrall Family Farm — one of the country’s oldest working, family-owned farms that dates back to 1646. Connecticut farmers grow great grains and we appreciate the hard work that Spencer Thrall puts in to producing a high-quality malted barley.”

Litchfield’s first release of American Single Malt Whiskey is limited to 200 bottles, which will be available for purchase in just two locations: Canterbury Liquors and Litchfield Distillery. The release date is Friday, June 2nd. To celebrate the release, Peter Baker, co-partner of Litchfield Distillery, will be onsite at Canterbury Liquors from 5:00pm to 6:30pm on 6/2 to pour samples and to discuss the launch with customers.

On Saturday, June 3rd, Irene Tan will visit Litchfield Distillery from 1:00pm to 3:00pm to participate in the distillery tastings and answer any questions about her approach to blending spirits. To book a Distillery tour on June 3rd, visit this booking page.

This bottle can be purchased on the Distillery’s Curbside Pickup Page. Click here if you would like to purchase in advance and pickup at your convenience.

You can learn much more about Litchfield’s American Single Malt launch by watching this interview with Irene Tan.