While legacy brands like Buffalo Trace and Macallan continue to dominate shelves and headlines, a new wave of craft whiskey distillers is redefining what it means to produce world-class spirits. These smaller producers are embracing local grain, innovative cask aging, and a hands-on approach to create whiskeys that feel distinct, purposeful, and deeply rooted in place. As 2025 approaches, these are the craft distillers worth keeping on your radar—whether you’re exploring something new or looking to support independent makers.
Wolves Whiskey (California)
Blending skate culture with serious spirits knowledge, Wolves is one of the most buzzed-about names in American craft whiskey. Co-founded by the minds behind streetwear brand Undefeated and an expert distiller, Wolves uses California-grown barley, unusual blends, and a stunning aesthetic. Their releases sell out quickly—and for good reason.
Balcones Distilling (Texas)
Known for bold innovation, Balcones helped put Texas whiskey on the map. Their use of blue corn, unique malt bills, and high-heat aging creates a flavor profile that’s rich, spicy, and unmistakably Texan. Try their Texas Single Malt or Brimstone for something completely outside the Kentucky mainstream.
New Riff Distilling (Kentucky)
One of the most respected young distilleries in Kentucky, New Riff combines heritage with forward-thinking transparency. They offer bottled-in-bond bourbon and rye, all made with non-GMO grains and open-sourced mash bills. Their single barrel selections have gained a cult following among whiskey enthusiasts.
Westward Whiskey (Oregon)
Westward embraces the idea of whiskey as a grain-to-glass expression of its environment. Using Pacific Northwest barley and ale-inspired fermentation, they create American single malts with fruity, earthy complexity. Their whiskeys are nuanced, versatile, and excellent for sipping or pairing.
Stranahan’s (Colorado)
Pioneers of the American single malt category, Stranahan’s has long produced whiskey with Rocky Mountain character. Their Original Single Malt, aged in new American oak and finished at altitude, is smooth and balanced, while limited releases like Snowflake have become collector favorites.
Ironroot Republic (Texas)
Named after the iron-tough rootstock that saved European wine grapes, Ironroot is making waves with bold, unapologetic bourbon. Their use of heirloom corn varieties and French aging techniques brings surprising depth to their lineup.
Sagamore Spirit (Maryland)
Reviving Maryland’s rye whiskey legacy, Sagamore Spirit blends high-rye and low-rye mash bills to create smooth yet spicy ryes. Their distillery on Baltimore’s waterfront is also worth a visit if you’re in the area.
If you’re curious to try bottles from these rising stars, don’t forget to shop smart. Before you check out, open a cashback app like Rakuten or Ibotta to save on online orders from retailers such as Total Wine. You can also use Fluz gift cards to earn cashback by purchasing gift cards for select merchants, making your craft whiskey discovery even more rewarding.
