Where to Try American Whiskey

With Thanksgiving around the corner and Christmas fast approaching, Australians have a unique opportunity this November to experience the rich diversity of American whiskey.
Australia, one of the top importers of American whiskey, is seeing a special campaign, Cheers! Spirits from the USA, which partners with bars and specialist liquor stores to introduce Australians to lesser-known American whiskeys through tastings and events.
American whiskey offers a spectrum of flavors influenced by the varied climates and grain sources across the United States.
This campaign, supported by the Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. (DISCUS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, aims to showcase the unique characteristics of American whiskey, including bourbon, Tennessee whiskey, rye, and American single malt.
Joel Matticks from DISCUS notes that Thanksgiving, an iconic American holiday on November 28, is an ideal time for Australians to explore this spirit.
“Given how much Australians love whiskey, we thought this was the perfect opportunity to showcase a wider range of US distilled spirits,” he said.
For those who enjoy sampling before buying, there are several opportunities to try these whiskeys:

Retail Tastings and Events

P&V Wine + Liquor, Sydney: Free samples from Sagamore Spirit, High West, and Westward Whiskey are offered each Saturday at the Newtown store. Nationwide shipping is available for unique bottles.

Sense of Taste, Brisbane: Known for its extensive whiskey selection, Sense of Taste will feature exclusive bottles from brands like Westward and Kentucky Owl, with tastings from Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery and more.

Farrah’s Liquor Collective, Canberra: FLC will be adding new American whiskey offerings from brands like Sagamore Rye, Old Forester, and Wild Turkey.

Bars for a Whiskey Experience

Jolene’s, Sydney: With an extensive menu of American whiskeys, Jolene’s offers a selection featuring brands like Westward Whiskey, Uncle Nearest, and Old Forester.

Goodwater, Melbourne: This bar specialises in whiskey-forward cocktails with options like Kentucky Owl and Wild Turkey.

The Gresham, Brisbane: The Gresham boasts over 70 American whiskeys, including rare finds from Green River and Maker’s Mark.

American Whiskey Categories
There are four main types of American whiskey:

• Bourbon: Known for its sweet profile, made with at least 51 per cent corn.
• Rye: Spicier and drier than bourbon, made with at least 51 per cent rye.
• Tennessee Whiskey: Made with 51 per cent corn and must be filtered through charred maple, produced exclusively in Tennessee.
• American Single Malt: An emerging category, made with 100 per cent malted barley.

For whiskey enthusiasts or those just getting into American spirits, Thanksgiving provides a perfect reason to explore and appreciate the quality, diversity, and craftsmanship of American whiskeys.
Or, if you’re looking to make some amazing cocktails at home, find a range of delicious recipes that showcase American spirits here.