Portland's Westward distillery began in 2004 with what they describe as "a vision to make a distinctive American whiskey inspired by the American Northwest." This release is "a tribute to Oregon’s legendary Willamette Valley wine country... influenced by the region’s premier grape varietal: Pinot Noir. This cask-finished whiskey reflects the vibrance of the Valley’s signature grape while allowing the bold, robust notes of our whiskey to shine through. Our Pinot Noir Cask begins with our Westward Whiskey Original, which is matured for up to an additional two years in French Oak wine casks from a handful of award-winning producers in the region."