Whiskey Review: Bear Fight American Single Malt

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by Next Century Spirits. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link towards the bottom of this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.

Bear Fight American Single Malt Whiskey is inspired by traditional Scotch flavors and methods, but at its core, is as American as it gets. It’s a little sweet, not too peaty, and packs a punch from nose to finish. The whiskey is produced by North Carolina-based Next Century Sprits, a company that specializes in creating and branding libations. Though not exactly your typical distillery, Bear Fight’s easy drinkability and complex flavor proves that their process works. 

Bear Fight has a lot of characteristics of a traditional Scotch whiskey. It uses a 100% malted barley mash bill and is distilled in copper pot stills. It then ages in bourbon casks and is finished in peat-smoked oak and sherry casks. The whiskey is aged for a minimum of three years. Next Century Spirits prides itself on its secret “advanced filtering and finishing” technology, which ensures a smooth yet complex finish.

This award-winning whiskey only recently hit the shelves, but has already racked up awards, including a double gold medal at the 2021 New York International Spirits Competition. Bear Fight is branded as a “bold yet approachable” single malt, with notes of “pecan, honeysuckle, ripe red apple, dried figs, black currants, sweet sherry, and peat smoke.” 

Bear Fight American Single Malt Whiskey (image via Next Century Spirits)

Tasting Notes: Bear Fight American Single Malt Whiskey 

Vital Stats: Aged a minimum of three years in bourbon casks, finished in peat-smoked oak and sherry casks. 45% ABV. Malted barley mash bill. SRP $54.00/750ml bottle.

Appearance: Amber and caramel with yellow-green undertones 

Nose: The nose opens with toasted pecan, as promised. Fruity and floral flavors of honeysuckle, neroli, and red apple follow. Touches of cookie dough (sugary and buttery) follow. Altogether a sweet and easy opening. You can taste the effects of the bourbon casks.

Palate: The palate hits strong after the easy opening, with an oversized punch of peat. It’s tempered by notes of fig, currant, blackberry, and honey. It’s full-bodied and smooth. There are hints of sherry and milk chocolate at the finish.