Cedar Ridge Quintessential American Single Malt Whiskey is a bold 119.7-proof single cask expression that showcases Iowa's innovative approach to American whiskey. This 2025 release from the Single Cask Series features peated malt finished in a Pinot Noir puncheon, creating a unique fusion of smoke, fruit, and American grain character that pushes the boundaries of what American single malt can be. Cedar Ridge Distillery has been crafting authentic American spirits in Swisher, Iowa since 2005, earning recognition as a pioneer in the Midwest whiskey renaissance. Selected by Murphy Quint Master Blender, this single cask bottling represents the distillery's commitment to experimental aging and showcases how American terroir can create distinctive expressions that rival traditional whiskey regions.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Campfire smoke, dark cherry, toasted oak, vanilla bean, earthy peat
• Palate: Smoked bacon, red wine tannins, caramel apple, black pepper, roasted malt
• Finish: Long with lingering smoke, dried fruit, oak spice, wine-soaked wood

Product Details

Spirit Type	American Single Malt Whiskey
ABV	59.85% (119.7 Proof)
Volume	750ml
Age Statement	NAS (No Age Statement)
Release Year	2025
Distillery	Cedar Ridge Distillery
Region	Swisher, Iowa, USA
Barrel Type	Pinot Noir Puncheon Finish
Cask Number	PN-24-04
Series	Single Cask Series

Perfect For

• Whiskey Collectors: Single cask bottlings with unique finishing techniques
• Experimental Sippers: Exploring the intersection of American whiskey and wine cask influence
• Cask Strength Enthusiasts: High-proof expressions that showcase raw distillery character
• American Single Malt Fans: Discovering innovative approaches to this emerging category

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Cedar Ridge Quintessential American Single Malt taste like?

Cedar Ridge Quintessential delivers a complex profile combining peated smoke with wine-influenced fruit notes. The Pinot Noir puncheon finishing adds layers of red fruit and tannins that complement the underlying smoky malt character, creating a uniquely American take on peated whiskey.

Is Cedar Ridge Quintessential good for cocktails?

At 119.7 proof, this expression works beautifully in spirit-forward cocktails where its complex smoke and fruit profile can shine. Try it in an Old Fashioned or Boulevardier where the wine finish adds interesting depth, though many will prefer to sip it neat or with a splash of water.

How should I drink Cedar Ridge Quintessential?

Start neat to appreciate the full cask strength intensity, then add a few drops of water to open up the smoke and fruit interplay. The high proof benefits from patience – let it rest in the glass to fully develop the wine cask influence and smoky complexity.

What makes this Cedar Ridge release special?

This Single Cask Series bottling represents innovative American whiskey making, combining peated malt with Pinot Noir puncheon finishing – a technique rarely seen in American single malts. The Iowa terroir and experimental approach create a distinctive profile that showcases the creativity of American craft distilling.

Is Cedar Ridge Quintessential worth the price?

For collectors and enthusiasts seeking unique American single malt expressions, this offers excellent value. The single cask bottling, innovative finishing technique, and cask strength presentation provide a premium experience that showcases Cedar Ridge's experimental prowess in the growing American single malt category.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.