Balcones Whisky: The First Texas Whisky Made Since Prohibition
Balcones Whisky is often a go-to choice for whisky lovers, due to the signature flavours and high-quality ingredients it’s known for. In this blog post, we’ve covered everything you need to know about this Texas-made Whisky - including its origin, taste, and how it’s best enjoyed. Find out more below.
Where Is Balcones Whisky Made?
Balcones Whisky is an American single malt whisky produced in Waco, Texas. The distillery was initially founded in 2008, and began distilling in 2009 - using a distinct approach combining traditional techniques with modern methods.
The distillery uses carefully selected barrels to create a wide range of whiskies - which has in turn received several awards in the industry. Over the years, Balcones Whisky has become known for its bold, distinct, and flavourful characteristics - a proper reflection of the place it’s created.
What Kind Of Whisky Is Balcones?
Balcones Distilling produces several whiskies - including single malt, rye, and bourbon. The brand takes a very innovative approach to production, and is known for its grain to glass approach.
Balcones Whisky is often characterised by its complex, bold flavours - each of which showcases a distinct region and culture of the area in its production. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky enthusiast or not, Balcones offers something exciting to suit every palate.
What Does Balcones Whisky Taste Like?
The unique taste of Balcones Whisky is a direct result of the distillery’s innovative approach to the production process. Balcones usually use a range of grains and barrels to craft their signature flavour, which has led them to several industry awards.
The spirit is typically recognised by its rich, bold flavour - with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice. Balcones can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks or added to one of your favourite cocktails.
How To Drink Balcones Whisky
Depending on personal preference, you can enjoy Balcones Whisky either on the rocks or neat. If you like your whisky cold, consider adding a few ice-cubes or whisky stones to your rocks glass before pouring a whisky.
That being said, to experience the full-flavour and aroma that the whisky has to offer, it’d be better to have it neat. Begin with a small sip, then allow the whisky to linger in the mouth so you can enjoy the array of flavours on offer.
Balcones whisky can make a great addition to cocktails with a deeper, complex base - such as the Texas Mule and Imposerita. Below, we’ve listed 4 cocktails that’ll surely impress your guests.
1. Texas Mule
A signature southern twist on the popular Moscow Mule - the Texas Mule is a refreshing crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 45 ml Baby Blue
- 15 ml Lime Juice
- Ginger Beer
- Add Baby Blue and lime juice to a tall, highball glass with ice or mule mug.
- Top with ginger beer.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy
2. Texas Coffee
A tasty blend of rich flavours held within a classic whisky cocktail - garnished with sweet cream.
Ingredients
- 44 ml Rye. 100
- 15 ml Rich Demerara
- Coffee
- Aerated Cream
- Mint Leaves
- Add rye and rich demerara to a tempered glass.
- Top with coffee, leaving a 1.5 cm gap from the top of the glass.
- Add the aerated cream.
- Garnish with mint leaves and enjoy.
3. Imposterita
For anyone chasing a tropical kick to satisfy their taste buds, consider creating the Imposterita.
Ingredients
- 60 ml Baby Blue
- 20 ml Lime Juice
- 15 ml Orange Liqueur
- 7 ml Agave Nectar
- Add the Baby Blue, lime juice, orange liqueur, and agave nectar to a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the cocktail shaker with ice, and shake vigorously for 1 minute.
- Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass and enjoy.
4. Wildflower Gold Rush
Combining the smooth flavours of Pot Still Bourbon with the sweetness of wildflower honey - the Wildflower Gold Rush is a refreshing cocktail that won’t soon be forgotten.
Ingredients
- 45 ml Pot Still Bourbon
- 20 ml Lemon Juice
- 15 ml Rich Honey Syrup
- Add bourbon, lemon juice, and honey to a shaker filled with ice.
- Vigorously shake until chilled.
- Strain into a cocktail glass and enjoy!