Westward Whiskey is a clear leader in the American Single Malt Whiskey world. Their direct-to-consumer Whiskey Club is a great opportunity to explore their innovative, unique, and experimental whiskies. “Cognac Cask Finished” was the final Westward Whiskey Club release of 2023 and features a mashbill incorporating 100% malted barley. This Whiskey Club exclusive offering spent nearly 4 years in new American Oak barrels before an additional year of aging in Cognac casks that had continuously housed XO Cognac for more than 40 years. For more details on Westward Whiskey, their exclusive Whiskey Club, and some of its unique releases, check out this press release in our archives. A big thank you to Westward Whiskey for sending us this whiskey with no strings attached so we could taste this release.
About Cognac Cask Finish:
- Style: American Single Malt Whiskey
- Mashbill: 100% Pacific Northwest malted barley
- Proof: 90 (45% ABV)
- Age: Approximately 5 Years total aging
- Finish: after nearly 4 years in new American Oak barrels, the whiskey was transferred for the next year to 40 year old XO Cognac casks.
- Availability: Winter 2023 Release; Limited to Westward Whiskey Club Members Only
- Price: $99.95
Scott’s Tasting Notes:
- Nose: big vanilla note, bright apples, honey, toasted pie crust, a hint of white grape juice, and floral
- Palate: initially, this whiskey was very characteristic of Westward Whiskey (I even immediately flagged it as being Westward in a blind lineup of 5 other single malts; in case you have not noticed, I often lean toward Westward for their ASMW). The whiskey is super creamy, almost buttery, with the vanilla carrying the day. As you revisit this one, a nice medley of fruit brings waves of bright flavors to your palate.
- Finish: creamy and lingering mouthfeel.
Closing Thoughts
Westward Whiskey has long been considered my “leader in the clubhouse” as the American Single Malt Whiskey world takes shape before our eyes. Westward Whiskey is dedicated to the category and their Whiskey Club limited releases show this commitment. If you are looking to explore American Single Malt, Westward Whiskey’s core lineup offers a nice diversity and their Club releases elevate things to another level. If you want to hear more about Westward, check out Bourbon Lens Episode 155.
And finally, if you’re looking for more details on the Whiskey Club, head over to their website to learn and join their quarterly release club.
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