Editor’s Note: We received a review sample of this whiskey from the brand. However, in accordance with our editorial policies, this has not influenced the outcome of our review in any way.
Virginia Distillery Company, founded in 2011, has a relatively long history regarding the ongoing evolution of the American single malt whiskey category. Dr. George G. Moore built up what would eventually become a world-class distillery campus in the Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains in Lovingston, VA. George’s passion for single malt whisky today is carried on by his wife, Angela Moore, and their son, Gareth Moore, along with his wife, Maggie Moore, who took the helm after his passing.
The distillery uses Midwest barley to distill through its copper pot stills from Scotland, handmade by a specialty fabricator. The new make is then aged in “cask houses,” with Virginia’s hot summers and cool winters allowing their spirit, according to them, to age faster than counterparts in Scotland.
What’s in the bottle
Virginia Distillery Company Cabernet Cask Select American Single Malt, the focus of this review, is one of several cask-finished American single malts being positioned by the distillery as aiming to “expand consumer access to this growing category by providing a bold line of American Single Malts at an introductory price point.”
This particular whiskey was first aged in first-fill bourbon barrels for years before being finished in various Cabernet casks, including premium Cabernet Sauvignon barrels in France and California.
“The level of matured stocks we’ve reached has enabled us to introduce an entry-level priced product within the American Single Malt category. Representing a significant development for our business,” Gareth Moore said when this whiskey was released. “We remain committed to leading the American Single Malt movement. This new house-brand will serve as the gateway to the American Single Malt category. It will be showcased alongside our luxury brand, Courage & Conviction, allowing us to cater to a broad spectrum of consumer preferences and price points.”
Virginia Distillery Company Cabernet Cask Select American Single Malt is bottled at 93 proof and priced at $44.99.
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.