Stranahan’s, a Colorado-based distillery owned by Proximo Spirits, has been crafting single malt whiskeys since its founding in 2004. This long-standing experience has positioned the brand to capitalize on recent developments in the American whiskey market.
In December 2024, the U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) officially recognized the single malt category. This recognition marks a milestone for producers like Stranahan’s who have invested in single malts for years.
Increased Awareness and Retail Support
While daily operations at Stranahan’s have remained steady, the new TTB guidelines and a media campaign around the category have boosted awareness and excitement. Head blender Arden explains that this has helped retailers better organize their shelves and display single malt whiskeys as a distinct category.
“We’re seeing customers, both in-store and out-of-store, starting to fill entire shelves, or at least entire spaces, with items from the same category,” Arden said. “Customers get excited when they see sales increase without having to do anything other than put the merchandise together.”
Stranahan’s as a Leader in American Single Malts
Stranahan’s stands out as the leading American single malt producer, with national distribution and a significant inventory of aged barrels. This stock allows them to offer permanent supplies of 10- and 12-year-old whiskeys.
Arden noted growing interest from international single malt drinkers who are familiar with Scotch, Japanese, or Irish single malts. “Age statements are important to them. It proves that you’ve been in this space for a while,” he said.
Commitment to Aged Whiskeys and Innovation
Arden calls Stranahan’s “the leader in the club” for aged American single malts. While other distilleries have aged stock, Stranahan’s prides itself on having a plentiful and affordable supply.
“We’re ahead of the curve, and it’s my job to make sure no one catches up,” Arden said. “In fact, we’re going to push the envelope further. Believe it or not, our spirits are really good for aging in this climate, especially when they’re filled into other casks.”
Stranahan’s plans to introduce a seven-year age statement for its core Yellow Label whiskey and its sherry cask finish. Later this year, a 14-year-old release will arrive, with even older whiskies planned for the future.
Blending American and Scottish Traditions
Because Stranahan’s uses new virgin oak barrels, Arden explained that their age statements might not match those used in Scotland. However, this difference is part of the appeal of American single malts, which blend traditions from both countries.
“We’re incredibly proud to be carrying the torch, not only for American single malts but for the craft whisky movement in this country,” Arden said. “We’ve grown to become a force to be reckoned with and have even created a whole new whisky category. So it’s very interesting and I’m excited to see what’s next. I think the next five years are going to be a great time for consumers.”
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