Westward Whiskey Logo

Westward Whiskey Distillery

Region
  • Portland, Oregon
Awards
  • San Francisco’s World Spirits Competition (2019 and 2020), Four Gold Medals (2020)
Website
  • https://westwardwhiskey.com/
Phone Number
  • +15032353174
Address
  • 65 SE Washington St, Portland, OR 97214

Industrial distillery building under a cloudy blue sky.

History of Westward Whiskey Distillery

Westward Whiskey began its journey in 2004, driven by a vision to craft a distinctive American Whiskey inspired by the American Northwest.

Founding and Philosophy

  • The distillery was founded with a deep respect for the history and tradition of whiskey-making globally, but with a desire to create something entirely new.
  • Founder & CEO Thomas Mooney led the initiative, starting at a time when there were only about three dozen craft distilleries in the U.S.

The Westward Way

  • Westward Whiskey is committed to innovation, focusing on brewing like a craft ale, distilling like a Single Malt, and aging like a Bourbon.
  • The process begins with brewing an artisanal American Ale from scratch, using locally malted barley and ale yeast.
  • Distillation is done twice in custom low-reflux pot stills designed to create a robust spirit.
  • The whiskey is matured in new, heavily toasted, and lightly charred American Oak barrels, ensuring the flavor is enhanced but not overpowered.
  • Westward Whiskey is known for mingling barrels in small batches to achieve a balanced and bold signature flavor profile.

American Single Malt Identity

Westward Whiskey elevates the standards of American Single Malt, reimagining and creating a unique product that goes beyond traditional definitions.

Expansion and Recognition

  • From its humble beginnings, Westward Whiskey has grown to become a proud leader among more than 2,200 producers in the U.S.
  • The distillery has remained passionate about creating bold, robust, and delicious whiskey, serving as a leading voice for American Whiskey for over two decades.

Awards Won by Westward Whiskey Distillery

  • San Francisco’s World Spirits Competition (2019 and 2020):
    • Double Gold (2019): Westward Whiskey earned the prestigious double gold medal.
    • Four Gold Medals (2020): The distillery continued its success by securing gold medals for the following:
      • Classic Single Malt
      • Oregon Stout Cask
      • Westward Rum Cask Finish Whiskey (45% variant)
      • Westward Rum Cask Finish Whiskey (62.5% variant)
  • Westward American Single Malt Elements Series:
    • Innovation Recognition: The first release in this series, High Desert to Klamath Basin, received acclaim for its innovative approach. This whiskey features elements sourced from Oregon, including the Full Pint barley varietal and Garryana oak cask finishing.

Westward Whiskey Distillery Tour Information and Experience

Distillery Tour and Tasting Experience

  • Location: The distillery is located at 65 SE Washington Street, Portland, Oregon.
  • Tour Schedule: Available from Monday to Sunday, with specific hours for each day.
  • Experience: The tour provides an opportunity to meet the talented team behind Westward Whiskey. Visitors can learn about the distillery’s pioneering spirit and observe the unique production techniques that make Westward the highest-rated American Single Malt whiskey.
  • Tasting Room: The tour concludes in the tasting room, where guests can explore distillery exclusives not available anywhere else in the world.

Additional Tasting Rooms

  • PDX Airport Tasting Room: Located at 7000 NE Airport Way, Concourse C, OR 97218, open 365 days a year from 5 AM to 10 PM.
  • PDX Airport Kiosk: Situated at 7000 NE Airport Way, Concourse E, OR 97218, open daily from 7 AM to 7 PM.

Booking Information

Visitors are encouraged to book a tour in advance to ensure availability.

The Westward Wayfinder

Westward Whiskey also offers “The Westward Wayfinder,” a seasonal travel guide for exploring the American Northwest. This guide is a curated exploration of favorite local spots to eat, drink, and see, inspired by the community and values shared with Westward Whiskey.

Contact Information

For more details or to book a tour, visitors can contact the distillery at 503.235.3174.

Flask & Barrel Review of Westward Whiskey Distillery

As a seasoned whiskey collector who’s been on countless distillery tours, I’ve got to say, Westward Whiskey Distillery really stands out. My visit there was a solid 4.7 out of 5 experience.

The moment I stepped into their Portland location, I felt the passion and dedication they pour into their craft.

The tour itself was top-notch. Getting to meet the team and seeing their unique approach to whiskey-making was both enlightening and entertaining.

They brew like craft ale, distill like single malt, and age like bourbon – a combo that’s hard to beat. And the tasting session? Absolutely sublime. Their American Single Malt is bold, balanced, and has a complexity that speaks to my collector’s palate.

Their tasting rooms, especially the one at PDX Airport, are cozy and inviting. Perfect spots to unwind and savor their exceptional whiskeys.

The only reason I’m not going full 5/5 is that I always believe there’s room for a little bit of improvement. But honestly, Westward is pretty close to perfection in my book.

What To Do Nearby Westward Whiskey Distillery

  • Portland Japanese Garden: A peaceful retreat featuring traditional Japanese garden designs. It’s a place for tranquility and experiencing the harmony of nature.
  • International Rose Test Garden: Renowned for its stunning array of roses, this garden is perfect for a relaxing stroll and enjoying the beauty of Portland’s famous flowers.
  • Oregon Zoo: A great destination for families, offering a chance to see a wide range of animals and learn about wildlife conservation.
  • Pittock Mansion: This historic mansion provides a glimpse into Portland’s past with its beautiful architecture and stunning city views.
  • Lan Su Chinese Garden: A serene and intricately designed garden that offers a peaceful escape in the city, showcasing traditional Chinese landscaping.
  • Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): An interactive museum that’s perfect for those interested in science and technology, with hands-on exhibits for all ages.
  • Washington Park: A large urban park offering numerous attractions, including gardens, museums, and memorials. It’s a great place for outdoor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Westward Whiskey Distillery?

  • Screen Door Eastside: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 2337 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +15035420880. 
  • Olé Olé: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 2137 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +15032301132. 
  • My Father’s Place: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 523 SE Grand Ave, Portland, OR 97214.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +15032355494.

What hotels are near Westward Whiskey Distillery?

  • Jupiter NEXT: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 900 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +15032309200. 
  • Jupiter Hotel Portland: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 800 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +15032309200. 
  • Lolo Pass: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 1616 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +15039083074.