Distilling American Single-Malt Whiskey
Learn about this distinct whiskey style and the process behind it.
Boulder Spirits distiller Justin Baier walks you through the process and materials of making an American single-malt whiskey, including a broad approach to achieving the best possible flavors.
In this course, Justin Baier, distiller at Colorado’s Boulder Spirits, guides us through the process and materials of making an American single-malt whiskey. You’ll explore equipment and design, ingredients, fermentation, distillation, barrel-aging, finishing, and more. Baier also shares details on their process at Boulder Spirits— including some similarities and key differences from brewing beer—as well as what they’re continuing to learn on their journey.
During the full-length 36-minute course, included in your Craft Spirits & Distilling subscription, Justin covers:
- the importance of quality ingredients
- the steps of whiskey production, and some of the similarities and differences compared to brewing
- the two-run distillation process with a one-pot still
- selecting wood barrels for aging and finishing
- a holistic approach to achieving the best possible flavors
And more.
Featuring:
- Justin Baier
Lessons
Introduction | Distilling American Single Malt Whiskey
Get a brief introduction from Justin plus an overview of what you’ll be learning in this course on distilling American single malt whiskey.
The Mash | Distilling American Single Malt Whiskey
Whiskey production starts in the mash tun, then goes directly to the fermentor.
Ingredients & Water | Distilling American Single Malt Whiskey
Learn about the quality ingredients and water used throughout the process of making an American single malt whiskey at Boulder Spirits.
Fermentation | Distilling American Single Malt Whiskey
Learn how the fermentor is controlled during a speedy 58-hour fermentation of an American single malt whiskey at Boulder Spirits.
Distillation Process & Materials | Distilling American Single Malt Whiskey
With distillation, consistency is key. Justin discusses Boulder Spirits’ still, the two runs, and how to make cuts to reach their target ABV.
Barreling & Aging | Distilling American Single Malt Whiskey
Discover how the barrel itself and the time aged affect the flavor of the final product.
Best Flavors | Distilling American Single Malt Whiskey
For American single malt whiskey, every step of the process affects the flavor and final product.
What Boulder Spirits Offers | Distilling American Single Malt Whiskey
Boulder Spirits offers a special version of American single malt whiskey. It’s inspired by a Scottish classic.
Notes on the Still | Distilling American Single Malt Whiskey
Justin discusses working with and cleaning their copper one-pot still.
What Makes American Single Malt Whiskey? | Distilling American Single Malt Whiskey
With no official category from the TTB, American single malt whiskey can be open to interpretation.
Parting Thoughts | Distilling American Single Malt Whiskey
Justin leaves you with some parting thoughts about how to make an American single malt whiskey with your own spin.