Hinterhaus Distilling is releasing its fourth batch of American Single Malt whiskey, coinciding with the federal government’s recent official recognition of the category. The Northern California distillery’s latest Discovery Series launch comes just as the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) regulations take effect on January 19, 2025.
The timing marks a milestone for American whiskey producers who have long advocated for formal recognition of American Single Malt as a distinct category. Bonnie Boglioli-Randall, co-founder and co-owner of Hinterhaus Distilling, sees this as an opportunity to showcase regional character in American whiskey, saying: “We’re proud to be a part of the American Single Malt landscape and put a decidedly northern California twist on this traditional whiskey style.”
Hinterhaus Distilling American Single Malt Discovery Series Batch 4
Batch 4 of Hinterhaus’s Discovery Series features a malt bill of 88% Gallagher’s Best and 12% Pacific Victor from Admiral Maltings. The spirit undergoes open-air fermentation before aging in ex-bourbon and ex-wheat whiskey barrels from Speyside Cooperage (OH) and Kelvin Cooperage (KY).
California Terroir Meets Traditional Methods
The distillery’s commitment to local sourcing is evident in their partnerships. Hinterhaus sources sustainable California barley and works with Admiral Maltings of Alameda, CA, for the majority of their malted barley needs.
Nate Randall, co-founder and head distiller, emphasizes the importance of these local connections. “American Single Malt is a cornerstone to our ethos as distillers,” says Randall. “Our commitment to sourcing sustainably-grown California barley and partnering with nearby floor maltster, Admiral Maltings, for a majority of our malted barley reflects this principle.”…