SEATTLE — "We have a small but mighty production team here," Westland Distillery Director of Hospitality Phoebe Dawson said on our tour which ended inside the tasting room in Seattle's SODO neighborhood.
Dawson explained how where we live plays a huge role in the flavor of Westland's single malt whiskey, which has been racking up some major awards lately.
"We really think we're making a name for ourselves and American single malt whiskey," Dawson said. "Washington is one of the best barley growing regions in the country if not the world and frankly we would not be making single malt whisky if we were not based here."
The tasting room is airy, window-lit and a comfortable place to gather with friends.
"We want guests to feel welcome," Dawson said. "We're so proud of this space. We love whiskey enthusiasts here, novices alike. All are welcome here to enjoy the space."
The magazine Whisky Advocate recently proclaimed the Westland Garryana (No 8), named for the Oak trees native here, as the third best whiskey in the world. That's the best any American brand has ever done.
The judge cited notes of "charcoal grill, Krispy Kreme doughnut, Honey Nut Cheerios, and a touch of salinity on the nose."
"A beautifully textured palate melds smoke and sweetness in superb fashion, expressing strawberry jam, burnt sugar, campfire smoke, and chocolate raspberry Ghirardelli square," the judge continued. "Toasted marshmallows, honey, and cinnamon sweetness linger on and on throughout the finish, leaving you eager for another sip."
Almost overnight, the Garryana (which sells for more than $150) became one of the most difficult bottles of single malt whiskey to find in Seattle.
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