American Single Malt Whisky, Colorado-style: Spirit Hound Distillers is Elevating the Category

Colorado is emerging as the leading producer of American Single Malt Whisky (ASMW), and Spirit Hound Distillers is leading the pack. In the first half of the year, the Colorado distiller has remained doggedly committed to putting American Single Malt Whisky on the map, gaining worldwide recognition for its spirits, and earning steady growth for its Lyons Distillery and Denver Cocktail Lounge.

According to the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission’s newly established guidelines, ASMW must be crafted according to rigorous criteria: mashed, matured and distilled at a single United States distillery, to a proof not exceeding 160.

“We were doing all that before it was cool, out of respect for tradition and a true belief in the superiority of the style,” said Spirit Hound’s Master Distiller Craig Englehorn, who has been passionate about ASMW since 2012, well before the guidelines were established. “We’re happy to see American Single Malt Whiskey now formalized and gaining popularity; and as more people have a chance to try it at retail, the category is only going to grow from here.”

Crafted entirely of barley grown and malted in Alamosa, Colo., the Spirit Hound team adds a Scottish twist to its American Single Malt Whisky by including a small amount of peated malt. The whisky ages for a minimum of two years in new, full-size, virgin charred American Oak barrels. As with all of their spirits, they use fresh Rocky Mountain water to cut the proof, and the whisky is bottled as a single barrel. This authentic and local handcrafted approach highlights the nuances that make each barrel unique, living up to Spirit Hound’s motto of “local, loyal and legendary.”

“Colorado’s high elevation, dry climate, and dramatic barometric swings create a uniquely intense maturation environment for American Single Malt Whisky,” said Engelhorn. “Warm summers accelerate aging, and the category requires first-use oak barrels which draw out the bold, complex flavors of the whisky. Our single barrel approach is really highlighted and allows us to let the rugged character of the Rockies shine one barrel at a time."

So far this year, Spirit Hound released two rare variations on their American Single Malt Whisky to great acclaim: Sherry Cask-finished American Single Malt Whisky and American Single Malt Whisky aged in Suerte Tequila Reposado barrels.

Released in April, the limited edition, award-winning Sherry Cask-finished American Single Malt Whisky is characterized by sherry sweetness on the palate and a viscous mouthfeel layered with toffee and manuka honey. A dry, warm finish, with mature sherry notes that linger, fully demonstrates the complexity of this well-balanced spirit. Sherry Cask-finished American Single Malt Whisky has earned two major accolades: a Double Platinum award in the American Single Malt Category at the American Spirits Council of Tasters (ASCOT) awards; and a Gold Medal and a 95 rating from New York International Spirits Competition (NYISC). Additionally, Spirit Hound has been named “Best Distillery” by Best of Boulder for 10 years in a row, since the inception of the category.

Spirit lovers can enjoy the full Spirit Hound experience at the Lyons Distillery or Denver Cocktail Lounge. The Lyons Distillery underwent a recent remodel, freshening up both the indoor and outdoor spaces for guests, while retaining its original mountain charm. The dog-friendly Denver Cocktail Lounge, which opened one year ago, offers the perfect spot for a Colorado-crafted cocktail, date night, a cocktail class, or a special event. Both locations are available to reserve for weddings, parties, and corporate events. 

Come see what everyone’s barking about. Experience Spirit Hound’s exemplary American Single Malt Whisky at two Colorado tasting rooms, the distillery in Lyons and the tasting room and cocktail lounge in Denver, or for order online in 40 states.

###

About Spirit Hound Distillers - THE SPIRIT OF COLORADO

For Spirit Hound Distillers, the quest to produce the finest Colorado-crafted spirits is a journey that never ends. Proudly distilled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Lyons, Colo., since 2012, our spirits have won more than 85 major awards. Our highly decorated American Single Malt Whisky earned the highest whisky ranking in the world at the London Spirits Competition, in addition to Best in Show in 2022 and again in 2024. Savor the passion, dedication, and devotion to tradition in every bottle, crafted with locally sourced ingredients and pure Rocky Mountain snowmelt. Visit our distillery and tasting room in Lyons, unwind at our Denver cocktail lounge, or purchase online for delivery in 40 states. Join the pack at spirithounds.com.