When it comes to American single malt, few names stand out quite like Westward Whiskey. For two decades, this Portland, Oregon-based distillery has made it clear that their craft is rooted in passion, experimentation, and an unshakable respect for old-world distilling methods. Now, with the release of their 2024 Westward Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt, they’ve shown yet again that they’re not just following trends—they’re setting new standards.
A Nod to History, A Taste of Oregon
The Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897 is more than just a label—it’s a promise of quality and trust in American whiskey. To wear this badge, a whiskey must be the product of one distillation season, made by one distiller, aged at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse, and bottled at exactly 100 proof. While many distilleries check these boxes just to meet the minimum, Westward goes well beyond. This new Bottled-in-Bond expression doesn’t just meet the standard four-year mark—it ages for a full seven years, gathering depth and layers of flavor inside new, heavily toasted American oak barrels.
The Brewers’ Touch
One thing that sets Westward apart is their brewer’s approach to whiskey. They start slow, brewing like craft beer makers before distillation, using 100% malted barley. The spirit is then run through a custom low-reflux pot still that delivers a robust, grain-forward base. For whiskey nerds, this means big malt character, smooth mouthfeel, and a complexity that invites multiple tastings.
A Whiskey Club Gem
This Bottled-in-Bond single malt is a limited 2024 release available to Westward Whiskey Club members and directly through the distillery for $99.95. For fans of American single malt, this is a bottle that rewards patience and exploration.
A Bold Nose that Pulls You In
Pour a dram into a glencairn and the aroma hits you with bright, red berry charm. On first lift, expect notes of strawberry, plum, blood orange, and even a hint of pomegranate. There’s a delicate sweetness here—a touch of grenadine peeks through on a deep inhale, but it doesn’t overpower. Instead, you get supporting notes of milk chocolate, light oak, and pie crust.
After a few swirls, this single malt shifts a bit. Fresh pine bough, limoncello zest, and cedar resin come forward, layering complexity over that juicy fruit base. Even better, when you return to the empty glass, you’re treated to a nostalgic mix of cinnamon pancakes, popcorn, and cherry cobbler.
A Palate that Evolves Sip by Sip
A good whiskey invites a slow sip, and this one demands it. The first taste brings a wave of tingling spice over the tongue, carried by pine and subtle smoke. Dark plum, raisin, and grenadine tie back beautifully to the nose’s fruit profile. There’s a roundness here that feels carefully built, with each note in balance.
Another sip uncovers more surprises: hints of cacao powder, cold brew coffee, and juicy red grapes keep things interesting. What really stands out is how fresh and oily it feels on the palate, with a lingering finish that just keeps giving—think warm strawberry rhubarb pie drizzled in clove and a touch of black pepper. By the end, a subtle taste of pear and strawberry pulls the whole experience together.
Bottled at the Sweet Spot
Bottled exactly at 100 proof (50% ABV), this expression walks a careful line between punchy and smooth. The proof amplifies flavors without any rough edges. It’s the kind of pour that whiskey enthusiasts appreciate—powerful but balanced, bold but approachable.
A Whiskey Worth Savoring
Tasting this release, it’s easy to see why Westward has built such a loyal following. They’ve kept the adventurous Northwest spirit alive while staying true to the core values of American whiskey. This Bottled-in-Bond expression doesn’t rely on flashy finishes or trendy casks to stand out. Instead, it showcases what happens when a distillery trusts its process, ingredients, and time.
Final Thoughts: An Enthusiast’s Delight
For my money, the 2024 Westward Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt hits that sweet spot of quality, value, and rarity. It’s a whiskey that doesn’t shout but speaks clearly with its deep, balanced flavors. If you appreciate bold red fruits, a resinous backbone, and a gentle nod to Oregon’s unique climate, you’ll find a lot to enjoy here.
This is the kind of bottle you’ll want to sip on through the seasons—by the fireplace in winter or under clear skies in early fall. The 7-year aging, the single distiller care, and the attention to brewing craft shine through in every pour. At under $100, it’s a gem worth adding to any American single malt collection.
Whether you’re a long-time Westward fan or just curious about what modern American single malt can be, the Bottled-in-Bond is a pour you shouldn’t miss. Hats off to Westward for reminding us that patience, skill, and passion are still alive and well in American whiskey.
