American whiskey‘s newest category arrives in Britain with federal recognition and ambitious plans to shake up traditional single malt shelves.
American Single Malt Whiskey Gains Federal Recognition
The United States government officially recognized American Single Malt as a distinct whiskey category in December 2024, ending years of industry advocacy. The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) established strict production standards requiring 100 percent malted barley, single distillery production, oak cask maturation not exceeding 700 liters, and minimum 40 percent ABV bottling.
This recognition has sparked international interest, particularly in the UK market. American whiskey exports to Britain increased 28 percent in 2024, according to IWSR data, with premium and craft segments driving growth. The new category has caught attention from major publications including Whisky Advocate, Forbes, and VinePair.
“American Single Malt brings something new to the table while respecting the craft that whiskey lovers appreciate,” said Chris Swonger, President and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS).
The timing aligns with growing global demand for premium spirits. The American craft distilling movement has expanded rapidly over the past decade, with over 2,000 craft distilleries now operating across the United States.
American Single Malt Whiskey Showcase Coming to London
DISCUS will present American Single Malt alongside other American spirits at Bar Convent London, the UK’s leading on-trade drinks show, June 30-July 1, 2025 at Tobacco Dock. The organization’s booth (EM5-01) will feature samples from 14 member distilleries, including Westland, Virginia Distillery Co., and Reservoir Distillery.
A dedicated masterclass titled “American Single Malt – New World Whiskey, New Rules” runs Monday, June 30 from 2:15-3:00 p.m., offering UK drinks professionals guided tastings and category insights. An evening networking reception follows at Odyssey Bar and Lounge in Shoreditch, featuring American whiskey cocktails and tastings.
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The UK represents a crucial market for American whiskey exports. Britain imported $556 million (£441 million) worth of American whiskey in 2023, making it the largest European market for U.S. distilled spirits. American Single Malt enters this established market with distinct advantages: familiar single malt production methods combined with American innovation.
Industry experts note the category’s appeal lies in its diversity. Unlike Scotch whisky’s regional conventions, American Single Malt embraces experimentation with different oak types, climate variations, and production techniques. This flexibility allows distillers to create unique flavor profiles while maintaining category integrity.
The Bar Convent London showcase marks a significant step in American Single Malt’s international expansion, positioning the category alongside established whiskey traditions while emphasizing its distinctive American character.
