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Steve McCarthy, Oregon Whiskey Distilling Legend, Has Passed

Among the founding craft distilleries of the United States in modern times, Clear Creek out of Oregon is considered one of the oldest, having been founded in 1985. Its founder, Steve McCarthy, has now passed away.

A post on social media by the distillery he founded noted his passing. In the message Clear Creek said “it is is with great sadness that we share with you that our Founder, Steve McCarthy has passed. He was a giant among men, an adventurer, conservationist, community leader, father, mentor, and friend. We cannot begin to express our gratitude at having the opportunity to know and work for him, for what he has done for us both personally and professionally, or how deeply we feel this loss. Our thoughts are with his family and friends while we mourn his passing.

“Steve founded Clear Creek in 1985, the 3rd ever craft distillery in the United States. His passion for quality spirits and his devotion to supporting local businesses, farmers, and his community are the values that continue to guide us everyday.

Steve McCarthy passing
Among the founding craft distilleries of the United States in modern times, Clear Creek out of Oregon is considered one of the oldest, having been founded in 1985. Its founder, Steve McCarthy, has now passed away. This picture is from 2012. (image via Oregon Craft Beverage Council)

“Join us in toasting his legacy, but please be sure to follow the rules. Neat, and at room temperature… It is wintertime after all.”

McCarthy, in starting Clear Creek, focused much of its operations on the production of European-style brandies. Clear Creek was also known amongst whiskey circles for creating McCarthy’s Oregon Single Malt Whiskey. This very early entry into the American single malt category – in fact the concept of such a category was not even really considered at the time – was created over 25 years ago after McCarthy returned from a trip to Ireland wanting to make his own single malt.

What is McCarthy’s whiskey today is made by first importing peat-malted barley from Scotland. It is made into a wash by a local Oregon brewery before being distilled and aged in Oregon oak. The base entry product is three years old.

McCarthy sold Clear Creek to larger Oregon distilling operation Hood River Distillers in 2014, staying on at the time as “an adviser and spokesman.”

McCarthy will be remembered as one of the true founders of the American single malt movement, and also as a craft whiskey pioneer.

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