Cedar Ridge Single Malt Whiskey is an interesting whiskey coming out of the Cedar Ridge, Iowa. They primarily use malted 2 row barley, but have also been known to use other types of maltier barley like chocolate malt and biscuit malt. Though unique grains aren’t the only thing they play with. They also use a solera system which involves wine barrels from their vineyards to enhance the fruity nature of their whiskey. It’s really cool to see such an interesting and evolving whiskey coming out of a craft distillery.

In addition to the regular Cedar Ridge Single Malt Whiskey they also release limited edition versions that are made entirely of a unique grain or go through a unique aging process of different barrels or are a blend of different types of barrels or a combination of all of the above. They also get released at a higher proof and can be quite lovely whiskeys.

Cedar Ridge Single Malt Whiskey Info

Region: Iowa, USA

Distiller: Cedar Ridge Vineyards
Mashbill: 100% Malted Barley
Cask: Used cooperage (ex-bourbon and ex-wine)
Age: NAS
ABV: 40%

Price: $50*

Cedar Ridge Single Malt Whiskey Review

EYE
Summer hay

NOSE
Sweet and malty with layers of fresh pastries, fruit, vanilla frosting and toffee with a light bit of Red Vines. It’s reminiscent of something from Speyside.

PALATE
Fruity and sweetly malty with some vanilla frosting, orange cream and toffee notes with a light bit of raisiny dried fruit.

FINISH
Short drop of fruit, malt and a sweet spirity pop.

BALANCE, BODY & FEEL
Good balance, medium body and a soft watery feel.

OVERALL
Cedar Ridge Single Malt Whiskey is a soft fruity whisky and despite its light nature it’s something I could easily see myself drinking now and then. Though I have to say, I liked the higher proof, and seemingly older, version of this I tasted at Whisky Live a while back. It stood out as a more impressive whiskey that night and had a richer character overall. I’m not saying this regular release needs to be cask strength, but even 46% makes a big difference compared to 40%. Regardless, it’s an interesting whiskey that’s well worth a taste.

SCORE: 84/100 (B)

*Disclosure: This sample of Cedar Ridge Single Malt Whiskey was graciously sent to me by the company for the purposes of this review. The views, opinions, and tasting notes are 100% my own.