Sips & Sites & Bites

Westward Whiskey, a Pacific Northwest whiskey that calls Portland, Oregon home, continues to evolve every year. 

And for this holiday season, the brand has introduced the pinnacle in its American whiskey lineup, its first-ever luxury expression called Westward Whiskey Milestone. 

This release, like the brand, will evolve and change each year, the makers at Westward explained. Milestone showcases Verum Factum, their maker’s knowledge gained after years of experience, drawn from Old World winemaking, distilling, and maturation traditions.

Westward Whiskey Milestone is made from a 21-barrel Solera system that includes some of their oldest and most rare whiskeys, along with a slow proofing process. 

The distiller noted that Westward Whiskey Milestone reflects more complex aromas, a long, lingering finish, and a depth of flavor while still allowing Westward’s signature fruity notes to come through.

Master Blender Miles Munroe explained that Westward will draw off a small fraction of this whiskey for each annual release, replacing it with something unique from their barrel house. This fractional blending and proofing process will continue year after year. 

 “For nearly twenty years, we have pushed the boundaries to elevate American whiskey,” said Thomas Mooney, Westward founder and CEO. “Harnessing this maker’s knowledge, we challenged ourselves to explore what the ultimate expression of Westward Whiskey could be. Milestone is our masterpiece – a truly special whiskey that celebrates the legacy of our past and the promise of our future.”

Munroe noted that they’ve integrated some of their oldest whiskeys with a selection of “beautiful wine and wood finishes, both from our home near in Willamette Valley and from coveted winemaking regions around the world.”

Each custom bottle of Westward Whiskey Milestone comes individually numbered and is accompanied by a gift box inspired by the company’s Northwest heritage. Each gift box contains an individually numbered bottle and unique registration code.

Included with each purchase is a printed invitation to join the Milestone Society, the company’s invitation-only community of enthusiasts, open exclusively to bottle holders. To register and join, consumers will scan an enclosed QR code and share some basic information. Benefits include more information on the making of Milestone, notifications for future limited Westward releases, and access to exclusive events across the country.

Westward Whiskey Milestone clocks in 43% ABV and has a suggested price of $249.95 for 750ml. It’s sold exclusively at www.westwardwhiskey.com.

The distiller’s notes show the whiskey to have aromas of candied citrus, heather honey, toasted almonds, and toffee with a palate of raisin and plum, light butterscotch, cinnamon spice and walnuts. It finishes with brown sugar, baking spices, and rich dried fruit with lingering vanilla.

For more information, check out WestwardWhiskey.com or their socials on Facebook and Instagram.