The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has established a new standard of identity for "American single malt whisky," which specifies criteria such as mashing, distillation, and aging in the U.S., using only malted barley, and storage in oak barrels up to 700 liters. This rule follows feedback from distillers and industry associations, aiming to enhance transparency for consumers and support American producers. The new rule, effective January 19, 2025, allows caramel coloring with label disclosure and permits the "straight" designation for whiskies aged two years. There is a five-year transition period for existing labels to comply with the new standards.
Simple Explanation
The government made a new rule about American single malt whisky: it now has to be made a certain way, like using only malted barley and being aged in special barrels, to help people know what they're buying and support U.S. whisky makers. This new rule starts in January 2025, and there's a five-year period for whisky makers to change their labels to match the rule.