American

45th Parallel American Single Malt Whiskey Review

Can a young American single malt truly satisfy a die-hard Scotch fan? We tasted 45th Parallel's Scottish-inspired whisky to find out—and were pleasantly surprised.

OVERALL RATING

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Tasting Notes

About:

Press materials from the distillery say: “45th Parallel’s Single Malt whisky is the passion project of Master Distiller, Bob McKenzie, who came to the US from Scotland 30 years ago. This Single Malt whisky is made with Scottish malt, fermented and distilled “grain out.” It is unsmoked and unpeated – which means that the malt will be at the forefront of this clean, smooth sipping whisky.”
Appearance:
Light golden straw with slow legs.
Nose:
Salt, soft malted grains, a touch of smoke, an oddly traditional Speyside smell, honey, and clover.
Palate:
Impressively smooth! light golden honey, apples, herbal tea.
Finish:
Water mouthfeel, soft and short finish with white sugar and oak lingering on the tongue. Fades into a slightly bitter taste.
Comments:
Surprised! This is a young American Single Malt and it is great. If you’re a Scotch fan this is something you’ll really appreciate. It is very drinkable, shareable, and enjoyable without becoming overwhelming or becoming too much for what’s going on. Sometimes less is more and the drinkability combined with the lower proof is an excellent pairing in this one!

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Charles Steele

Charles Steele, a Portland-based attorney, is a native of the Pacific Northwest. His legal background provides him with an analytical approach to understanding whiskey and other aged spirits. Primarily a legal writer, freelancing for The Whiskey Wash offers Charles a unique opportunity to showcase his versatility as a writer. Although his preference lies with whiskey and whiskey-based cocktails, he has a profound appreciation for all unique and unconventional liquors, from Malört to Ojen - if it's peculiar, he's intrigued.

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