Drinking 101**Celebrate Thanksgiving with Cheers! Spirits from the USA

Looking to celebrate the Thanksgiving and Christmas season with a touch of American Whiskey? Whether it’s for yourself or a thoughtful gift for a loved one, there are plenty of opportunities this November to explore unique and premium American whiskeys—complete with sampling sessions before you commit to buying.

Australia is well known for its award-winning whiskies, and the Scotch and Irish traditions are legendary. But did you know that America, with its diverse climates and abundant grain production, offers a remarkable variety of world-class whiskeys? While Australia is the second-largest importer of American whiskey, many of us are unfamiliar with the distinct styles and techniques that set them apart—making a curated bottle a standout gift this festive season.

This November, ‘Cheers! Spirits from the USA’ is partnering with specialty liquor stores and bars nationwide to help Australians discover exceptional American whiskeys.

• P&V Wine + Liquor (Newtown, Sydney): Enjoy free tastings of premium American whiskeys, new to Australia, every Saturday afternoon in November. Masterclasses with brands like Sagamore Spirit and High West will deepen your appreciation, and their national delivery service makes these rare finds accessible to whiskey enthusiasts across Australia.
• Jolene’s (Sydney): This bar showcases an extensive range of American whiskeys, including favorites like Westward Whiskey and Uncle Nearest. Their inventive cocktail menu features iconic names like Jack Daniels and Old Forester, offering a chance to enjoy whiskey in a vibrant setting.

Key American Whiskey Styles:

• Bourbon: Known for its sweetness, bourbon is crafted with at least 51% corn and aged in new oak barrels.
• American Rye Whiskey: Distilled with a majority of rye, it’s spicier and drier than bourbon.
• Tennessee Whiskey: A bourbon cousin made exclusively in Tennessee and filtered through maple charcoal for a distinct flavor.
• American Single Malt: A rapidly growing category, distilled from malted barley and celebrated for its diverse flavor profiles.

Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to savor the quality and versatility of American whiskey. For cocktail inspiration, explore delicious recipes featuring American spirits here. Cheers to discovering your next favorite dram!