Crafted with precision in the high elevations of Utah, High Country American Single Malt Batch No. 20K13 represents a distinct departure from High West's celebrated blended bourbons. This whiskey offers a testament to the distillery's growing prowess in single malt production, showcasing a rich tapestry of malted grain, fruit, and subtle smoke. It’s an intriguing pour for adventurous palates seeking nuanced complexity outside of traditional bourbon profiles.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A captivating and complex bouquet unfolds, revealing prominent notes of toasted oak and sweet malted barley, indicative of its single malt lineage. Underlying these are delicate hints of ripe orchard fruits like baked apple and pear, intertwined with a subtle honeyed sweetness and a touch of vanilla bean. A wisp of baking spice, perhaps cinnamon or nutmeg, gently emerges, leading to a clean, slightly earthy aroma reminiscent of a highland meadow after rain.

Palate: The palate is surprisingly full-bodied for its proof, offering a harmonious blend of sweet and savory. The initial taste delivers rich caramel and butterscotch, quickly followed by the robust, nutty character of smoked grains and a pleasant, chewy maltiness. Mid-palate, bright citrus zest, perhaps orange peel, cuts through the sweetness, introducing a refreshing counterpoint. There's a gentle warmth and a subtle spice, like white pepper, that adds depth and complexity without overwhelming the delicate fruit and grain notes. The oak influence is present but well-integrated, providing structure rather than sharp tannins.

Finish: A medium-long and satisfying finish that is remarkably clean and lingering. Nuances of dried apricot and fig emerge, complemented by a persistent, delicate sweetness of honey and a faint whisper of peat smoke, more reminiscent of a campfire’s distant echo than an assertive smokiness. The oak tannins are soft, leaving a pleasant, warming sensation and a final, subtle chewiness that invites further exploration.