by Andrew Chalk
Balcones Distilling, one of the best, and most innovative, distilleries in Texas (despite just turning 10) began a huge statewide rollout of yet another expression in its extensive whiskey lineup. A Texas Pot Still Bourbon, Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
Bourbon is required (per Federal regulations and reproduced from Wikipedia) to be:
Produced in the United States
Made from a grain mixture that is at least 51% corn
Aged in new, charred oak containers
Distilled to no more than 160 (U.S.) proof (80% alcohol by volume)
Entered into the container for aging at no more than 125 proof (62.5% alcohol by volume)
Bottled (like other whiskeys) at 80 proof or more (40% alcohol by volume)
The term ‘Straight’ legally mandates at least two years of ageing in new charred oak barrels.
The Balcones Texas Pot Still Bourbon is described by head distiller Jared Himstedt as having a nose of Honeycrisp apples, toasted oak, kettle corn, graham cracker, and oiled glove. A taste of honey, sweet cream, candied pecans, sandalwood and leather, and a finish that is soft and sweet, drying and tannic fade with lingering spice.
I was a media guest at the Dallas Fort Worth launch event at Texas Live this week (which sells Balcones products in all their bars) and my experience was that this is very smooth for a two year whiskey and has a commanding body that enhances the mouthfeel. When I deliver presents to European friends this year, this is the Bourbon that I will take them. Recommended.
This will be a year-round whiskey and carries a very reasonable price of $29.99. The first markets to get it are Texas, Colorado, and California.
