A big thank you to Miles Monroe – Head Distiller at Westward Whiskey for taking the time to answer some questions about Whiskey. In mid-May Westward Whiskey launched its brand-new Pinot Noir Cask in Australia. The Single Malt Pinot Noir Cask also just won Double Gold at the 2021 San Francisco Spirits Awards.

What makes WESTWARD® Pinot Noir Cask Finish the best whiskey?

The Westward American Single Malt Pinot Noir Cask is truly unique, as it is a tribute to one of Oregon’s premier wine regions, the Willamette Valley, and as the name suggests, is influenced by our signature grape varietal, Pinot Noir.  The beauty of this whiskey though comes through the cask-finish, as it is aged for two years in French Oak Wine barrels; which are sourced from award-winning wine producers in Oregon. The result is an elegant whiskey that is fruity, robust and brazen.

Should you serve ice with whiskey?

My recommendation is that Westward Whiskey is best served neat, on the rocks or in my favourite cocktail, the Old Fashioned. While there is nothing wrong with serving whiskey over ice, it truly just comes down to personal preference. It’s important to keep in mind that ice can dilute the flavour of the whiskey as it melts; so, if you’re looking to get the full intensity of the flavour the whiskey has to offer; you’re best going neat.

Compared to other whiskies, what makes Westward Whiskey unique?

When many people think of American whiskey, they automatically think of bourbon. However, Westward Whiskey truly is American Single Malt, reimagined. For us, it stands out from other whiskies because we start by brewing it like a pale-ale, distil it like a traditional single malt, however we then age it like a bourbon – giving us a robust spirit that is bold, imaginative, and truly embodies the spirit of the Pacific Northwest.

For those people who might not know, what is the difference between Bourbon and Whiskey?

The reason why many people think American whiskey is bourbon, is because the key criteria in making a bourbon, is that is MUST be from the U.S. In addition, bourbon also has very strict criteria around ingredients, with a certain percentage of corn and grains included. The temperatures and distilling process are also quite specific. However, for other whiskeys like single malt, this whisky needs to be made at a single distillery using a mash of exclusive malted barley.

What defines Whiskey as being Whiskey? Is it a geographically protected term?

Both spellings of the word whiskey and whisky are correct and used across the world – however which you use, is dependent on the country of origin. If you are referring to drinks distilled in Ireland or American, use the ‘e,’ however if it’s from Canada, Scotland, Japan, Australia etc. then omit it.

What is the number one myth about whiskey that you feel needs to be busted?

Definitely for us, the biggest myth it that in order to be bourbon, it needs to be from the U.S. But that doesn’t mean all U.S. Whiskey is bourbon. We are in a wonderful new age of whiskies and for us, it’s really important for consumers to understand that countries can produce a range of delicious malts and the U.S. has more to offer than just familiar bourbons.

Do you have any advice for picking a great whiskey?

Always look for a whiskey that has won awards or received recognition in some way. The San Francisco Spirits Competition for example, is a global awards program and recognises only the best whiskies from around the world. You know it’s been tried and tested by experts. Alternatively, always figure out what flavours you like in a whiskey and ask for that again at your local bottle shop. If you try a whiskey at a bar and the bartender says it’s smoky and peaty, ask for something similar when you next buy a whiskey.

Everyone’s tastes are so different, so at the end of the day, pick a whiskey you know you’ll enjoy.

Importantly, where in Australia can you get Westward Whiskey?

Westward Whiskey’s three core expressions are available in Australia through leading retailers including Dan Murphy’s and Vintage Cellars. Our newest Pinot Noir Cask is available through The Oak Barrel.