Westland Wine Cask Finish Named Among Whisky Advocate's Top 20 Whiskeys

For the second year in a row, Seattle's own Westland Distillery has achieved international acclaim, with its Wine Cask Finish American Single Malt Whiskey securing the #20 spot on Whisky Advocate's coveted ‘Top 20 Whiskeys of 2024' list. This remarkable achievement further solidifies Washington state's position as a rising star in the world of whiskey.

Westland remains the only Washington distillery ever to be featured on this prestigious list, a testament to its unwavering commitment to crafting exceptional whiskeys that embody the spirit of the Pacific Northwest. This back-to-back recognition underscores Westland’s dedication to innovation and its deep connection to the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

Westland Wine Cask Finish, an homage to Washington's rich winemaking industry, was meticulously crafted using casks sourced from Washington wineries. This collaboration between two of the region's most celebrated crafts showcases the unique "cultural terroir" of the Pacific Northwest. By integrating casks from renowned Washington Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Red Blend producers, Westland has created a whiskey that seamlessly marries the elegance of wine with the complexity of single malt.

The whiskey offers an exquisite sensory journey, reflecting the artistry of both Washington winemakers and Westland's distilling prowess. On the nose, alluring aromas of allspice and dried rose intertwine with the richness of raspberry reduction and a hint of dark chocolate wafer. The palate unfolds with the decadent delight of a chocolate raspberry turnover, balanced by the delicate notes of Earl Grey tea and the sweet concentration of dried strawberry.

This recognition from Whisky Advocate, a leading authority in the spirits world, highlights not only the exceptional quality of Westland’s whiskey but also the growing global appreciation for Washington-made spirits. This award further validates Westland's vision to showcase the distinct character of the Pacific Northwest on the world stage.

“We’re incredibly proud to be recognized again by Whisky Advocate," says Jason Moore, Westland’s Managing Director. "This award is a tribute to our passionate team, our local partners, and the rich agricultural bounty of our region. The Wine Cask Finish embodies our commitment to showcasing the best of what Washington has to offer, and we are thrilled to share this exceptional whiskey with the world.”

Last year, Westland’s Garryana 8th Edition achieved the #3 spot on the same list, making this the second consecutive year Westland has been honored. This continued success underscores Westland's emergence as a leading force in the global whiskey landscape.

Whisky Advocate is the preeminent publication evaluating whiskeys, and their yearly Top 20 list is highly coveted. The list includes whiskeys that score 90 or above (“outstanding”) on their 100-point scale. They also weigh in price and accessibility. A crucial step in assessing these whiskeys’ true worth is a blind tasting by an international panel.