Editor’s Note: We received a review sample of this whiskey from the brand. However, in accordance with our editorial policies, this has not influenced the outcome of our review in any way.
The relative size and scope of the Westward barrel program have allowed the distillery team to provide special offerings for the Westward Whiskey Club. Originally launched in 2019 as an Oregon-only offering, it is now nationwide in more than 35 states, offering a number of perks, including club-only whiskey releases.
What’s in the bottle
Westward’s latest club-only release, and the focus of this review, is Westward Whiskey Vintner’s Cuvée. This expression, following in the footsteps of the brand’s Pinot Noir Cask offering, is wine-cask finished. Whereas the Pinot one is one style, Vintner’s Cuvée draws from four grape types—Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, and Pinot Noir barrels—for its focus.
The Westward team, led by Master Blender Miles Munroe, mingled whiskeys finished in fruit-forward casks from the Willamette Valley, Sonoma County, and Australia’s Margaret River wine regions. The general mash bill for this whiskey is 100% 2-row malted barley, having been distilled, depending upon the component, in 2018-2019.
“Wine finishes in the world of single malts are used often, and for good reason,” said Munroe at the time of its release. “The results are fantastic, and everyone appreciates the flavor combinations that occur when wine notes mingle with malt whiskey. An immediate berry character will lure any whiskey drinker in while the depth, mouthfeel and structure of this dram will connect with the most experienced of appreciators.
“This is the first of its kind from Westward, but it is also inspired by one of our most recognized and most awarded core expressions, Westward Whiskey Pinot Noir Cask.”
Bottled at 96 proof, Westward Whiskey Vintner’s Cuvée was bottled at 96 proof and priced at $99.95.
