As we posted this past Monday, Cedar Ridge Distillery is on the leading edge of whiskey experimentation, and this American Single Malt Special Release, entitled “The Untitled Cigar Malt Project,” embodies that ideology. The Quintessential continues its run as my favorite American Single Malt Whiskey, and this expression proves my adulation. What makes this whiskey different for Cedar Ridge is the focus on application – in this case, as a “cigar malt” intended to compliment a fine cigar.

Comprised of a multi-year single malt whiskey blend, with each component initially aged in ex-fill Cedar Ridge bourbon casks and then finished in a variety of specialty casks: Cedar Ridge V (a Madeira-inspired dessert wine), First Fill Amontillado Sherry, New French Oak, New American Oak “Char #3,” and a Peated Malt finished in Ruby Port. Each component adds nuance and depth to an already complex malted barley whiskey, resulting in a depth of character easily rivaling some of Scotland and Ireland’s best.

It pours a dark amber into the glass, immediately releasing intense aromas of dark fruits, roasted pecans, fig newtons, unlit matches, and a distant hint of smoke. Warming and swirling releases notable oak, wither spices, and grape must. It’s big, fat, and round on the tongue, with a noticeable alcohol sting from its (WOW!) 57.4% ABV! Adding a few drops of water tames the heat while fattening the mouthfeel and adding nuanced complexity.

The initial flavors echo many of the noted aromatic characteristics, with dark fruit leather, raisins, nuts, and wood most prominent. The mid-swallow releases notes of baked plums, warm pie crust, eucalyptus, wet flint, moist, rich loam, and more smoke. Additional sips release a complex array of secondary flavors, including fruit loops cereal, green peppercorns, fruit Danish, leather polish, and pipe tobacco shop. In the after-swallow, hints of sea breeze mingle with freshly mown grass, wheat chaff, and “rainy day,” leading to whispers of cosmic crisp apples, grapefruit wedges, and charred oak. The finish is long and round, with waves of sweet nuttiness and raisings dancing with a far-off fireplace.

The long name – “Cedar Ridge The Quintessential ‘Special Release’ Untitled Cigar Malt Project American Single Malt” – is fitting because the whiskey is complex and, like saying its name, requires significant time to appreciate its characteristics fully. Despite the dram’s depth and complexity, it’s also remarkably well-integrated and elegant. I preferred it after adding a dash of quality water – the high alcohol overpowered some subtle characteristics you wouldn’t want to miss.

Like its forerunner, this new release lends credence to my belief that American single-malt whiskey rivals some of the best Scotch and Irish whiskies and will increasingly challenge its old-school rivals for dominance. For those who can afford its $99 USD price tag, it’s a worthy addition to a well-heeled home bar. I’ve always appreciated “cigar malts,” and I’m jubilant that an ASM producer is making one worthy of consideration!