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Pendleton Canadian Whisky bottles
  • 07/23/2024

A Comprehensive Guide to Canadian Whisky

As any enthusiast knows, whisky is a complex topic. Even the spelling of the word can be a bit confusing. ‘Whisky’ (without the ‘e’) is used in Scotland, Canada, and Japan, while ‘whiskey’ is used in Ireland, America, and other countries that make similarly-styled spirits distilled from the fermented mash of rye, barley, wheat, corn (or all of the above) and aged in oak barrels.

Pendleton® Whisky’s designation is Blended Canadian Whisky. But what does that mean, exactly?

Pendleton Whisky Midnight Bottle

What is Canadian Whisky?

Canadian whisky, often called “rye whisky,” can be misleading. The final product can be labeled “rye whisky” if it contains at least 51% rye in its mash and is manufactured in Canada. However, Canadian whisky regulations also allow for a mix of grains like corn, barley, wheat, and rye.

Another difference between, let’s say, bourbon and Canadian whisky is that bourbon must use new charred oak barrels exclusively, while Canadian whisky can use any type or age of barrel.

The rules Canadian whisky must abide by are as follows:

  • Must be mashed, distilled, and aged in Canada.
  • Aged for at least three years in small wood barrels (no larger than 700 liters).
  • Contain a minimum 40% ABV (80 proof).

Flavors and Additives in Canadian Whisky

One of the biggest differences between Canadian whisky and other whiskies is that adding up to 9.09% flavoring, coloring, or other spirits is permissible. Some variations are flavored with maple, apple, and peach but can still be called Canadian whisky because they fall within the guidelines.

What Makes Pendleton® Whisky Unique?

Our commitment to quality is what elevates Pendleton® Whisky to legendary status. We select the finest northern grains for our mash, combining rye, corn, and malted barley to create a whisky of distinction. After distillation, the spirit is aged in American oak barrels and blended with pure glacier-fed Oregon spring water from Mt. Hood. We don’t have to source our grains or age our whiskies the way we do; it’s a choice—and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Pouring Pendleton Whisky Midnight

Tasting Canadian Whisky

Because of its variable recipes and aging strategies, Canadian whisky flavor profiles can be vastly different. It is a blended product, so the final spirit can be quite complex, encompassing characteristics of the individual grains and nuances imparted by the type of barrel the spirit was aged in. 

Some typical flavors include vanilla, caramel, baking spice, honey, and toast from the oak. Should the maker choose sherry or wine casks, you might find hazelnut, dried fruit, coffee, and even leathery notes. 

Pendleton® Whisky Midnight, for example, is aged in brandy casks, giving up warm, spicy notes of nutmeg and cloves and finishing with pecan and walnut.

A high percentage of corn in the mash tends to produce a sweeter, more rounded spirit, while a high rye content is spicy, with tart cherry and hints of dried tropical fruit. 

Pendleton Whisky Original and Pendleton Whisky Midnight bottles on a ranch

A Whisky for Our Western Way of Life

Pendleton® Whisky is distinctive in flavor, quality, and versatility. Inspired by the rodeo and Western traditions, we created a whisky that embodies the spirit of the West and the hard-working people who keep it alive. 

Whether you prefer it neat, on the rocks, or in a classic whisky cocktail, we’re sure you’ll agree: in the pantheon of Canadian whisky, Pendleton® Whisky is king. 

Order some Pendleton® Whisky online today and get it delivered to your door.

More news & stories

  • 12/18/2025

Palette of the West: Shaped by the Land

  • 12/18/2025

Holiday Grilling with Pendleton® Whisky & Pit Boss®: Festive BBQ Pairings

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