In response to petitions and industry member requests, the Alcohol Tabaco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) is proposing to establish a standard of identity for American single malt whisky.
In Notice No. 213, Proposed Addition of American Single Malt Whisky to the Standards of Identity for Distilled Spirits, The TTB proposes to amend the regulations in 27 CFR part 5 that set forth the standards of identity for distilled spirits to include “American single malt whisky” as a type of whisky that is a distinctive product of the United States.
Under the proposal the product must be distilled entirely at one U.S. distillery, and must be mashed, distilled, aged in the United States. The product also must be sourced from a fermented mash of 100% malted barley, at a distillation proof of 160° or less, and stored in oak barrels not exceeding 700 liters. In addition, allowable coloring, flavoring, and blending materials would be permitted.
The TTB is inviting comments on the proposal, including on whether the proposed amendment would have an adverse impact on owners of U.S. trademarks and current producers of malt whisky. See Notice No. 213 for complete instructions on how and where to comment. Comments are due by September 27, 2022.