West Fork Whsky Co. Alder Smoked Single Malt Whiskey Review.

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 West Fork Whsky Co. Alder Smoked Single Malt Whiskey Review.


    The first time I tried West Fork’s Alder Smoked Single Malt was right at their tasting bar, fresh off the drive to Westfield. One sip in, and I knew it was coming home with me. I’ve got a soft spot for smoky drams—my cabinet is full of peated Scotches and West Fork has been scratching that itch ever since I first picked up their Beechwood Smoked Malt years ago. This one feels like the 2025 sequel I didn’t know I was waiting for. My wife, who’s my ride-or-die Laphroaig fan and myself being in the cult of Ardbeg heard about the release coming and knew we had to try it out.

    This isn’t a “let’s play it safe” kind of whiskey. It’s 100% malted barley, smoked with Alderwood to bring a softer, sweeter kind of smoke than the heavy peat monsters overseas. At just over two years old, it’s young but makes me reserved in what to expect from the release. It’s very much a West Fork creation from start to finish, distilled, aged, and bottled right there in Indiana, and it’s the kind of experiment I wish more American distillers had the guts to try.


For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/Fh1UqC9_JKo.

Age Statement: 2 years.

ABV: 46%.

Mash bill: 100% malted barley.

Area of Distillation: Westfield, Indiana.

Appearance: Smokey tangerine.


On the nose:
    Right away, it’s clear this isn’t your everyday American whiskey. Sweet grain and honey mingle with fresh green apple, barley malt, and a touch of floral waxiness. The Alderwood smoke comes in lightly, more of a wisp than a blast, making it approachable even for those unfamiliar with smoky styles. The aroma leans toward Highland Park territory: gentle, balanced, and inviting.


Taste:
    The smoke remains subtle yet distinct, providing depth without overwhelming the sweet barley core. Notes of honey-drizzled granola, vanilla cream, and green apple slices dusted with caramel flow across the tongue. The used oak keeps the wood influence mild, letting the grain and smoke do most of the work. A faint char and earthy undertones give complexity, though the overall texture is soft and easy-drinking.


Finish:
    Medium in length, with lingering sweet malt and a touch of smoky ash. While pleasant, the finish would benefit from a higher ABV to carry the flavors further. As it stands, it’s gentle and satisfying, if not particularly bold.


Final Thoughts: 
    West Fork’s Alder Smoked Single Malt is a commendable experiment in American single malt style, successfully blending barley sweetness with restrained smoke. The price feels steep for its youth, but the craftsmanship and uniqueness help justify the splurge, especially for fans of smoked whiskies looking for something approachable. I’d love to see this released at four or six years old for added depth and structure. For now, it’s a solid, enjoyable pour. If you’re a bourbon drinker curious about exploring smoky territory, this could be your gateway dram.


Rating: B- (Fairly good). 

Cost: $74.99 for 750ml.

For the full video review visit the link here:  https://youtu.be/Fh1UqC9_JKo.

Social platforms to follow me: https://linktr.ee/thelastcallyt

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