Cedar Ridge Single Malt American Whiskey
The Data
Category Whiskey
Sub-Category Single Malt American Whiskey
Origin Iowa
Retail Price $48
ABV 40%
Score 4.5 Stars/Exceptional! +
In the Glass
Appearance
Brilliant amber color.
Aromatics
The nose is filled with dense, ripe fruits ranging from red cherries to apricot with bold accents of burnt sugar, allspice, vanilla, and sweet oak with hints of Brandy.
Flavor
The palate echoes the nose delivering a complex fruit core with generous supporting notes of brown baking spices, oak, and rich caramel.
Intensity & Texture
Medium to full-bodied with perfect balance and bold spice and oak notes.
Cool Factor
America needs more single malt Whiskies. We love our all-malt beers so the first step has long been accomplished. This Cedar Ridge Single Malt is a delicious blueprint of the new American spirit.
Value Grade
At prices approaching $50 this won't make anyone's bargain list but considering the quality and the small quantities we find it a value.
Analysis
Cedar Ridge is the first licensed distillery in the state of Iowa since Prohibition. Yes, these guys are really making Whiskey in Iowa. (I assume that everyone got that so let's move on.) The rich, malted barley is equaled by the unique Solera process that introduces a blend of wine and Brandy barrels. The Cedar Ridge Single Malt demonstrates clever distilling and blending. When we see skill and result like this from a grain to bottle distiller we are filled with anticipation of future Whiskey releases.
How to Enjoy
The Cedar Ridge Single Malt is best enjoyed neat with a splash of water. Add ice if you must and the distillers like this Whiskey in a classic Rob Roy.