High West is a Utah-based distillery that has become one of the most recognizable names in American craft whiskey. Founded in 2006 by David Perkins, a former biochemist with a passion for whiskey, High West started as Utah’s first legal distillery since the 1870s. Its home in Park City, a historic mining town turned ski destination, gave the brand a frontier-meets-modern identity that set it apart in the growing craft spirits scene.

From the beginning, High West embraced blending as a cornerstone of its philosophy. Rather than relying solely on young in-house distillate, Perkins sourced well-aged whiskeys from established distilleries and combined them with his own production. This approach allowed High West to create complex, layered profiles early on and to carve out a niche for innovation in blending, transparency, and storytelling.

The portfolio includes a wide range of expressions. Rendezvous Rye quickly became a flagship, celebrated for reviving interest in bold, spicy rye whiskey. Bourye, a unique blend of bourbon and rye, showcased the distillery’s creativity, while American Prairie Bourbon highlighted accessibility and a connection to Western heritage. High West also releases limited editions, such as Midwinter Night’s Dram, which has become a cult favorite thanks to its port barrel finish and seasonal allure.

High West is also known for its hospitality and sense of place. Its distillery and saloon in Park City draw visitors for whiskey tastings, cocktails, and food, reinforcing the brand as both a producer and an experience.

As a brand, High West represents innovation rooted in tradition. It honors the rugged spirit of the American West while embracing modern blending practices and adventurous finishes. By combining storytelling, craftsmanship, and a frontier aesthetic, High West has established itself as one of the leading voices in the revival of American rye and bourbon, showing that world-class whiskey can come from outside Kentucky.