The world of single malt whiskey is experiencing a fascinating evolution. While Scotland has long been considered the undisputed master of single malt whisky production, American distillers are crafting their own distinctive interpretations of this noble spirit, including established bourbon producer, Kentucky-based Limestone Branch Distillery, which has released its Yellowstone American Single Malt Whiskey, now making waves in the UK market.
Yellowstone has been synonymous with bourbon for many years, and as Master Distiller at Limestone Branch Distillery, Stephen Beam has been going head-to-head with well-established scotch single malt producers. Although his family lineage, from the Dant and Beam distilling families, has equipped him to venture into this new whiskey category, it is still to be formalized by the US Treasury’s Tax and Trade Bureau. With that being said, the American single malt category is, no doubt, growing. So, what are the main differences between American single malt and single malt scotch? Stephen Beam walks us through them.
So, What’s The Difference Between American Single Malt Whiskey & Single Malt Scotch Whisky?
Both American and Scottish single malts share one fundamental characteristic: they’re produced at a single distillery using 100% malted barley – and the similarities largely end there. Each country’s approach reflects its unique terroir, traditions, and regulatory framework. When it comes to the country itself, we only need to consider North America is 300 times the size of Scotland to contemplate the additional scope for variation and experimentation, whether related to climate, local produce, or resources.
The Malting Process
Scottish distillers typically use barley malted in traditional floor maltings or large industrial facilities. Some distilleries, like those on Islay and other Scottish islands, incorporate peat smoke during the drying process to impart those characteristic smoky flavors.
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American maltsters by contrast, rarely use peat, instead focusing on steeping the malted barley in water, allowing it to germinate, to showcase its natural sweetness.
Distillation Differences, Or Not…
Scottish single malts are exclusively produced in copper pot stills, typically through a double distillation process. American distillers, while often using pot stills, aren’t bound by such rigid restrictions. Some innovative producers employ hybrid setups or even column stills, which can lead to a cleaner, more refined spirit.
The Maturation Game
Perhaps the most notable difference between American and scotch single malts lies in the maturation process. While it’s true that scotch whisky is traditionally matured in oak casks that have previously held bourbon, sherry, or other wines and spirits, there is no prohibition against using virgin oak in Scotland. However, it remains much less common compared to the more established practice of using seasoned casks.
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American single malt, however, is a much newer category, and producers have embraced the flexibility that comes with this. They are free to experiment with new American oak—a practice that’s unusual but not forbidden in Scotland—and various other wood types and sizes. Here, Yellowstone’s bourbon heritage shines through, as its American Single Malt is matured in new charred American oak casks, typically reserved for bourbon, to create a uniquely American expression of single malt whiskey.
Climate’s Crucial Role
Scotland’s cool, steady climate results in a gentle aging process, with minimal temperature fluctuations throughout the year, whereas American distillers contend with more dramatic seasonal changes, particularly in states like Kentucky, where hot summers and cold winters force the whiskey to move more aggressively in and out of the wood.
This environmental factor typically accelerates maturation and creates bolder wood influences in American single malts.
Regulatory Framework
Scottish single malt production is governed by strict regulations that have evolved over centuries. These rules dictate everything from ingredients to production methods and aging requirements.
American single malt producers operated without formal standards until recently, when the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission proposed regulations to define the category, although it has yet to be officially categorized by the US Government.
Taste Will Tell
The culmination of these differences in production and maturation is evident in the glass. Scotch whisky flavors vary significantly by region, offering a diverse range of profiles. For example, Speyside whiskies are often known for their sherry cask influences, imparting rich, fruity, and sometimes nutty flavors. Lowland whiskies tend to be gentle and floral, while Islay is famous for its bold, peated character with maritime and smoky notes.
In contrast, American single malts frequently showcase more pronounced vanilla and caramel flavors due to the new oak influence, accompanied by a robust grain character and a fruit-forward profile, giving these whiskies a distinctively American flair.
The New Wave Of American Single Malts
Brands like Yellowstone represent an exciting evolution of the single malt whiskey category. By combining traditional Scottish techniques with American innovation, distillers are creating unique expressions that speak to both heritage and innovation.
Yellowstone’s recent UK launch demonstrates the growing international interest in American interpretations of this traditionally Scottish category, piquing the interest of even the staunchest scotch single malt fans.
Single Malts Looking Forward
As American single malt whiskey continues to gain recognition globally, the distinction between American and Scottish styles becomes less about superiority and more about celebrating their unique characteristics. Each style offers whiskey enthusiasts different expressions of what malted barley, careful distillation, and thoughtful maturation can achieve.
Whether you’re a devoted scotch drinker exploring American offerings, or a bourbon enthusiast venturing into the world of single malts, understanding these key differences enhances appreciation for both traditions.
As American distilleries, like Limestone Branch Distillery, continue to innovate, the single malt category only grows richer, offering whiskey lovers more opportunities to explore and enjoy this diverse and growing spirit category.
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