One of America’s Best Single Malt Distilleries Saved From Bankruptcy As Investors Acquire Assets

(Photo: Westward Whiskey)

A Delaware bankruptcy court has approved the sale of most of Westward Whiskey’s assets to a group of private investors, returning the Oregon-based distiller to independent ownership following its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing earlier this year.

The sale, approved Oct. 1 by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware, transfers ownership to investors who financed Westward during its bankruptcy process, including Luis Fernando Leal, an original investor and board member since 2011. The transaction is expected to close by Nov. 3.

Tom Mooney, Westward’s longtime CEO, will remain in his role. The company said the restructuring positions it to operate more efficiently amid a global slowdown in the spirits sector.

Despite a challenging market, Westward reported that sales through September 2025 rose 53% compared with the same period in 2024, already surpassing last year’s total annual sales.

“Today, we celebrate a new beginning at Westward Whiskey, a bright new future that will allow us to compete and win despite an industry slowdown and broader economic headwinds,” Mooney said in a news release. “Our new, independent ownership structure gives us the freedom and flexibility to lean into the parts of our business that continue to shine – including our Westward Whiskey Club, direct-to-consumer business, and select wholesale markets where we have partnered with Pacific Edge Wine & Spirits.”

Leal, who will be a principal of Aqua Ardens, the buyer group acquiring Westward’s assets, said he is optimistic about the company’s long-term outlook.

“Along with my partners, I am thrilled to play a role in the future of Westward Whiskey,” Leal said. “Thomas and the Westward team have the right vision, strategy, and ability to propel Westward Whiskey to sustainable growth in the coming years. This is a difficult moment in the spirits industry, but a tremendous opportunity for Westward Whiskey.”

Westward filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on April 6 under Subchapter V, a process designed to help small businesses restructure operations. The company said the filing addressed liquidity shortfalls and distribution challenges that strained the business despite steady consumer demand.

Founded in 2004, Westward Whiskey is one of America’s best single malt producers. The second batch of its “Milestone” release is tied for the highest-rated American single malt in The Daily Pour’s database of reviews.