Instead of copying the Scottish whisky formula, Westland Distillery has found success—and collected numerous spirits awards—by focusing on local ingredients. “We want to be a part of a healthy agricultural system, not just an anonymous end-consumer of malt,” says Hofmann, who trumpets Washington State as a “fantastic place for growing barley.” Garry oak, which grows only in the Pacific Northwest, and local peat are among the regional components that enable Hofmann to produce a truly craft and uniquely American single-malt whiskey.