World Whiskey Society Debuts Japanese Single Malt Crafted By ‘Father of the American Single Malt’ Chip Tate

On Wednesday, World Whiskey Society announced its latest release, a Japanese single malt whisky finished in bourbon and ruby port barrels.

Truly a global release, the whisky was made from 100% Australian malted barley and distilled in Japan.

The whisky was crafted in collaboration with Chip Tate, a legend if somewhat of a maverick of the whiskey industry. World Whiskey Society describes Tate as “the father of the American Single Malt,” and that’s not a stretch.

Tate founded the popular Waco, Texas-based distillery, Balcones, in 2008. However, he infamously departed the company in 2014 following a heated series of debates with his company’s investors.

After years of silence from the iconic whiskey maker, reports surfaced in January that Tate had taken on the role of master distiller for innovation at Foley Family Wines. The California wine company had recently expanded into spirits.

“Having the opportunity to work with the World Whiskey Society and this unique Japanese Single Malt was an incredible opportunity,” Tate said in a news release. “We worked hand-in-hand, and by combining my expertise with their finishing techniques, we have created a delicious liquid we’re looking forward to getting in our fan’s hands. It’s limited so hopefully they get it while it’s hot!”

Bottled at 102 proof, World Whiskey Society Japanese Single Malt whisky finished in Bourbon and Port Ruby Cask Handcrafted by Chip Tate is available for $120 online. Only 200 cases will be available.

Tate will be available for meet and greets and bottle signing in select Texas retail shops, according to World Whiskey Society.

Established in 2020, the World Whiskey Society describes as an organization that “scours the globe in search of unique distilleries, aiming to be a leader in the rare-whiskey category in the U.S.”

World Whiskey Society Japanese Single Malt whisky finished in Bourbon and Port Ruby Cask Handcrafted by Chip Tate Tasting Notes, Via the Brand

Nose: Wine-soaked ripe pear, crème brûlée, with tones of golden raisin, baking spices, and a rich umami character

Taste: Dark brown bread and salted caramel

Finish: Long and dry

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