McCarthy's Oregon Single Malt is a peated single malt whiskey from Clear Creek Distillery, distilled from 100% peat-malted barley from Scotland, aged in Oregon oak and bottled at 85 proof (42.5% ABV).
More than 25 years ago, founder Steve McCarthy returned from a trip to Ireland determined to make his own single malt. He wanted an American whiskey in the style of Islay Scotch with a local spin, so he sourced peated malted barley from Scotland, distilled it in Oregon and aged it in Oregon oak. In doing so he helped ignite the American single malt movement; McCarthy's is widely considered one of the very first American single malts.
The fermented mash is distilled in a Holstein pot still in a single pass, then aged in barrels made from three-year air-dried Oregon oak, also known as Garryana. Clear Creek, founded in Portland and now in Hood River in the heart of Oregon fruit country, is one of the oldest craft distilleries in the country and is also celebrated for its brandies.
The nose and taste are robust and smoky, complemented by hints of dried fruit and plum, with a warm finish of honey and delicate peat.
An Oregon original, it makes a great gift for peat lovers curious about American malt.
American whiskey covers a wide range of styles, from bourbon and rye to single malts and light whiskeys, and independent blenders and small producers have made it one of the most exciting categories in spirits.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Robust and smoky.
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Palate: Smoke with dried fruit and plum.
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Finish: Warm honey and delicate peat.
Specifications
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Producer: Clear Creek Distillery
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Style: Single Malt Whiskey, peated
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Grain: 100% peat-malted Scottish barley
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Cask / Finish: Air-dried Oregon (Garryana) oak barrels
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Proof / ABV: 85 proof (42.5% ABV)
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Region: Hood River, Oregon, United States
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Sip it neat or with a drop of water. It pairs with smoked salmon, grilled lamb or a sharp cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
What barley is used?
100% peat-malted barley from Scotland.
What wood is it aged in?
Air-dried Oregon oak, also called Garryana.
Who created it?
Steve McCarthy, founder of Clear Creek Distillery.
Explore more in our American Whiskey collection.
