The whiskeys in this article don’t fit neatly into any category. As far as the rule-makers are concerned, they can’t be called a bourbon, Tennessee, rye, corn, malt or wheat whiskey. Either they don’t meet the standards for minimum grain percentages, process rules, barrel aging requirements, or some combination.

They are, however, so impressive that they can’t be ignored. They are the renegades. The free thinkers. The rule breakers. And while displaying a brazen refusal to obey convention and categorization, they step up to the plate with remarkable, one-of-a-kind flavor and quality. This is America. We believe in the dream, the vision, the “it’s weird but it works” story.

Sure, maybe these creations aren’t for everyone. But that’s what makes them uniquely American — they’re not supposed to be.

WhipperSnapper Oregon Spirit Whiskey
As the name suggests, this incorrigible young spirit is too boisterous to ignore. The sweetness of Kentucky corn white dog is mixed with malted barley and methodically distilled in a fancy alembic pot still. Then it’s aged in a variety of barrels, including French Pinot Noir, making it very different than your average American whiskey. Enjoy its sweet, Scotch-like sophistication with an undeniably rambunctious twist.

Smooth Ambler Exceptional White Whiskey
To be called bourbon, the whiskey must be aged. Smooth Ambler likes to showcase the natural beauty and quality of their whiskey in this un-aged, full-proof form. This Appalachian distillery takes care to use a hands-on and grain-to-glass mentality that you can taste. Take a sip of their raw, almost cornbread-like mash. You’ve never had anything like it.

Death’s Door White Whiskey
It’s not your average white dog because it’s not corn. It can’t be called wheat whiskey because it’s not aged in charred oak barrels. It’s a white, wheat whiskey. And it’s organic, mellow, and loaded with body and grainy character. Only in America.

Koval Raksi Millet White Whiskey
Ever hear of a grain called millet? Raksi has. This flavorful grain is used for a popular spirit in Nepal, and Koval’s American version is organic, gluten-free, and ripe for drinking. Oh, and it’s just one of the many white whiskeys that Koval’s organic distillery produces. Now that’s a great whiskey story.

Michter’s Unblended Small Batch American Whiskey
Forget regular charred-oak barrels. Michter’s takes their bourbon recipe and ages it in bourbon-soaked barrels. What’s not to love? This is the perfect hooch for the bourbon buff. Super smooth and sweet spice all rolled into one bottle.

Corsair Pumpkin Spice Moonshine
Corsair Artisan Distillery takes pumpkin ale inspiration and turns it into a white whiskey. Say what? The fathers of whiskey are rolling over in their graves. Too bad. It’s terrific. Allspice, nutmeg, and all of your favorite Turkey Day pie seasonings are delicately balanced, creating a savory and sweet concoction that’s just as good to sip as it is to mix.