ReserveBar Westward Top Flight Series 1 Single Barrel #17 750ml

Westward American Single Malt Switchback Barrel S1B17 is an exclusive ReserveBar Topflight Series single-barrel selection that pushes American Single Malt into unusually experimental territory.

Made from 100% malted barley, this one-of-a-kind whiskey takes its name, “Switchback,” from the remarkable journey of the barrel used to mature it. The cask was originally used to age Westward Whiskey for four years, then held Aviation Old Tom Gin for one year, before traveling to Breakside Brewery, where it aged IPA for 10 months. The barrel eventually returned to Westward, where it was filled with two-year-old Westward Single Malt and matured for an additional four years. 

That unconventional cask history creates an expressive profile unlike a traditional American Single Malt. Aromas of citrus, botanicals, honey, dark chocolate and malt lead into a palate of spearmint, wildflowers, cardamom and pastry. The finish brings together hazy IPA character, mint, warm sourdough, orange citrus and caramel. 

Bottled as Topflight Series 1, Barrel No. 17, this limited 750ml release is presented at 119.05 proof (59.525% ABV), preserving the intensity and individuality of this singular barrel. 

Product Details

• Brand: Westward Whiskey
• Expression: Switchback Barrel
• Selection: ReserveBar Topflight Series
• Series: Series 1
• Barrel: No. 17 / S1B17
• Category: American Single Malt Whiskey
• Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
• Proof: 119.05
• ABV: 59.525%
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Origin: United States
• Producer: Westward Whiskey
• Distillery Location: Portland, Oregon

Barrel Journey

• Westward Whiskey — 4 years
• Aviation Old Tom Gin — 1 year
• Breakside Brewery IPA — 10 months
• Filled with 2-year-old Westward Single Malt
• Additional maturation — 4 years 

Tasting Profile

Nose: Citrus, botanicals, honey, dark chocolate and malt.

Palate: Spearmint, wildflowers, cardamom and pastry.

Finish: Hazy IPA, mint, warm sourdough, orange citrus and caramel. 

Serving Suggestion: Enjoy neat first to experience the full character of this unique single barrel. A small amount of water can help open the citrus, botanical and malt notes at its high bottling strength.