Redwood Empire Foggy Burl Single Malt Whiskey

Redwood Empire Foggy Burl Single Malt Whiskey is one of the more compelling entries in the fast-rising American single malt category—delivering a profile that feels both richly malt-driven and distinctly Californian. Built from a complex blend of specialty malts, it offers chocolate, dark fruit, and earthy forest notes, creating a whiskey that is layered, expressive, and highly unique. This is a thinking drinker’s whiskey—balanced, creative, and quietly impressive.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Produced in Northern California by Redwood Empire Whiskey, Foggy Burl is part of the brand’s experimental Small Lot Series, designed to explore new styles and push beyond traditional bourbon and rye.

Key production details:

• 100% malted barley (American single malt style)
• Crafted from multiple specialty malts (including darker roasted malts)
• Small lot blend of select barrels (often ~25–55 barrels depending on batch)
• Bottled at 94 proof (47% ABV)

Unlike Scotch, which often emphasizes lighter malt and fruit, Foggy Burl leans into a more robust, grain-forward style, shaped by:

• California’s coastal aging climate
• A focus on specialty and darker malts
• Blending to achieve balance across sweetness, spice, and tannin

Each batch is intentionally slightly different, reinforcing its small-lot, craft identity.

What Makes This Whiskey Different

This is not trying to imitate Scotch:

• More chocolate + roasted malt than typical single malts
• More earthy, forest-driven character
• A uniquely American interpretation of malt whiskey

As one bartender described it, it can feel like:

👉 “A walk through the forest” with honey and spice notes

Critics Reviews

• Whisky Advocate – 91 Points
• The Tasting Panel – 95 Points

These scores reinforce its position as a high-quality, standout American single malt.

Tasting Profile

Nose
Brandied cherry, port-like fruit, cashew, chamomile, and light malt sweetness.

Palate
Rich and layered with chocolate, brownie, molasses, dark fruit, and earthy undertones.

Finish
Medium-long with roasted malt, spice, and a slightly dry, tannic edge.

Quick Overview

Recommended Service

Serving:
Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water.

Why:
Water helps unlock more fruit and chocolate notes, softening the tannic edge.