Cedar Ridge Quintessential American Single Malt Whiskey is a bold 119.7-proof American single malt featuring peated malt finished in Pinot Noir puncheon from Iowa's pioneering Cedar Ridge Distillery. This single cask expression (Cask No. PN-24-04) delivers an extraordinary marriage of Highland-style smoke and French wine barrel influence, selected by Master Blender Murphy Quint for its exceptional character and complexity.

Founded in 2005 in the rolling hills of Swisher, Iowa, Cedar Ridge Distillery has been a trailblazer in American single malt whiskey production. Their "Authentic by Nature" philosophy embraces both traditional Scottish techniques and innovative American finishing methods. This Quintessential series represents the pinnacle of their craft, with each single cask release showcasing the distillery's mastery of flavor development through careful barrel selection and expert blending knowledge.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Aromatic peat smoke, dark cherry, vanilla oak, dried herbs, subtle wine tannins
• Palate: Rich smoke foundation, red fruit sweetness, honeyed malt, spiced plum, oak complexity
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering peat smoke, wine-barrel tannins, and sweet spice

Product Details

Perfect For

• Whiskey Collectors: Single cask releases with unique finishing and provenance documentation
• Peat Enthusiasts: Those seeking American interpretations of Scottish smoky traditions
• Wine Barrel Aficionados: Exploring the intersection of whiskey and wine barrel influences
• Special Occasions: Celebrating milestones with distinctive, limited-production spirits

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Cedar Ridge Quintessential taste like?

This American single malt delivers a complex profile of peat smoke balanced with red fruit sweetness from the Pinot Noir puncheon finish. The high proof amplifies both the smoky character and wine barrel influence, creating layers of vanilla oak, dried herbs, and spiced plum that evolve beautifully on the palate.

Is this whiskey good for cocktails?

While exceptional neat or with a splash of water, this 119.7-proof single cask expression is best appreciated on its own to fully experience the unique peated malt and wine barrel finishing. The high proof and complex flavor profile make it ideal for contemplative sipping rather than mixing.

How should I drink Cedar Ridge Quintessential?

Serve neat in a Glencairn glass or add a few drops of water to open up the aromatics. The high proof benefits from a brief rest after pouring to allow the alcohol to integrate. Room temperature is ideal to appreciate the full spectrum of peat smoke and wine barrel influences.

What makes this whiskey special?

This is a single cask release featuring peated malt finished in Pinot Noir puncheon, combining Scottish-inspired techniques with innovative American finishing. Each bottle represents a unique expression that cannot be replicated, hand-selected by Master Blender Murphy Quint for its exceptional character and complexity.

Is Cedar Ridge Quintessential worth the investment?

For collectors and enthusiasts of American single malt whiskey, this represents excellent value as a limited single cask release from Iowa's pioneering distillery. The unique combination of peat influence and wine barrel finishing, plus the expertise of Master Blender Murphy Quint, makes this a distinctive addition to any serious whiskey collection.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.