Austin's Distilleries
Top Spots to Visit
Austin’s vibrant distillery scene offers a journey through Texas’ rich heritage of craft spirits. Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Austin has become a haven for enthusiasts, with distilleries such as Deep Eddy Distillery and Treaty Oak Distilling leading the way. For those looking to explore authentic Texas spirits, Austin provides an array of tours and tastings that promise a unique experience.
Visitors can enjoy the convenient locations of these distilleries, often accompanied by popular local spots like food trailers and coffee shops. For example, Still Austin Whiskey Co. situated in the St. Elmo area offers not just premium whiskey but also access to nearby culinary delights. The combination of high-quality spirits and the vibrant local culture makes Austin an essential destination for any craft spirit aficionado.
The city's best distilleries continue to innovate while honoring time-tested traditions. With options like whiskey, gin, vodka, tequila, and moonshine available, Austin’s distilleries provide a comprehensive look into the art of distillation. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, Austin's distilleries have something to offer everyone.
History of Distilling in Austin
The history of distilling in Austin is rooted in the greater history of Texas. Distilling began to grow in popularity in the late 19th century as settlers brought their knowledge of spirits to the region. Early distilleries operated on farms and ranches, producing small batches primarily for local consumption.
Prohibition (1920-1933) halted legal distilling activities across the United States, including Austin. However, bootlegging became a common activity during this period. Despite the risks, many clandestine distillers kept the craft alive in hidden locations.
After the repeal of Prohibition, distilling slowly revived. By mid-20th century, the state saw a resurgence in licensed distilleries. The industry’s growth was gradual, with a significant boost coming in the late 20th and early 21st centuries as craft distilling emerged as both a movement and an industry.
In the 21st century, Austin became a prominent hub for craft distilleries. Locally-owned operations flourished, focusing on high-quality, small-batch production. There was a renewed emphasis on a “grain-to-glass” philosophy, ensuring transparency and quality control at every step.
Still Austin Whiskey Co., notable as the first whiskey distillery within Austin’s city limits post-Prohibition, exemplifies the city’s commitment to craft and tradition. Founded in the St. Elmo district, it highlights local resiliency and innovation with every bottle produced.
Today, Austin's distilleries continue to celebrate and evolve the craft of distilling, ensuring the city remains an essential destination for spirit enthusiasts.
Exploring Austin's Distillery Scene
Austin's distillery scene is rich and diverse, featuring a range of unique craft spirits. Each distillery offers visitors an immersive experience, with tours and tasting rooms highlighting their distinct processes and flavors.
Still Austin Whiskey Co
Still Austin Whiskey Co. stands out as the first whiskey distillery within Austin city limits since Prohibition. Located at The Yard, this grain-to-glass distillery does everything in-house, from mashing to barreling and bottling. Visitors can enjoy tours and tastings that showcase their commitment to using local Texas grains. The tasting room offers a variety of their small-batch whiskeys, providing an authentic and educational experience for whiskey enthusiasts.
Treaty Oak Distilling
Located just outside Austin, Treaty Oak Distilling offers a holistic experience. They produce a wide range of craft spirits including bourbon, gin, and rum. The distillery features a tasting room and offers comprehensive tours that detail their unique production process. With expansive grounds, it also includes a restaurant and outdoor areas, making it a great spot for a day trip. Treaty Oak’s focus on innovation and sustainability in their distilling practices is evident in every aspect of their operation.
Revolution Spirits
Revolution Spirits, based in Dripping Springs, is known for its small-batch artisanal spirits. The distillery’s primary product is gin, which has gained a significant following. They also produce other craft spirits like coffee liqueur and amaro. The distillery hosts tours where visitors can see the production process up close. The tasting room offers samples of their various spirits, allowing guests to appreciate the care and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.
Deep Eddy Vodka
Deep Eddy Vodka is one of the most notable vodka brands in the United States, produced right in Austin. They create vodka in small batches using local ingredients. Tours of the distillery provide a behind-the-scenes look at the vodka-making process. Their tasting room offers a range of flavors to sample, such as Ruby Red and Sweet Tea vodkas. Deep Eddy Vodka also hosts events and happy hours, making it a lively spot to visit.
Desert Door Distillery
Desert Door Distillery specializes in a unique spirit called sotol, which is native to West Texas. The distillery offers a rustic yet modern tasting room where visitors can sample different varieties of their sotol. Desert Door’s tours delve into the traditional methods used to produce this lesser-known spirit, highlighting its distinct characteristics. The distillery also emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing in their practices, making it an intriguing destination for those interested in unique and environmentally conscious spirits.
The Art of Distillation
Understanding the intricate process of distillation sheds light on why Austin's distilleries are renowned for their craftsmanship. The journey from raw grain to finished spirit is a meticulous one, marked by attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
Pot Stills and Craftsmanship
Copper pot stills are the heart of many distilleries in Austin. These stills, essential for producing high-quality spirits, offer excellent heat conduction and remove sulfur compounds during distillation.
Craftsmanship in distillation involves precision at every step. Master distillers control heating levels, timing, and the separation of alcohols, ensuring the removal of undesired components while preserving the desired flavors. Copper pot stills have been a staple for their ability to produce smooth, flavorful spirits, making them indispensable to many Austin distilleries.
Grain to Glass Philosophy
The "grain to glass" philosophy emphasizes transparency and quality from sourcing raw materials to the final product. Distilleries that follow this approach handle every aspect of production in-house, starting from selecting grains, through the distillation process, to bottling the spirit.
This philosophy ensures that each batch maintains consistency and upholds the brand's standards. By controlling every step, distilleries guarantee that consumers experience the purest expression of their craft. Austin distilleries, such as Still Austin, pride themselves on this holistic approach, reflecting their dedication to authentic, high-quality spirits.
Local Ingredients and Production
Many distilleries in Austin pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. From organic corn and winter wheat to fresh Hill Country artesian spring water, these components play a crucial role in the unique flavors of Austin spirits.
Corn and Winter Wheat
Austin distilleries often use organic corn and winter wheat grown in Central Texas. These grains are prized for their quality and contribute to the distinctive profiles of various whiskeys and bourbons produced in the area. The local climate and soil conditions impart unique characteristics to the grains, which translate into nuanced flavors in the final products.
Still Austin Whiskey Co., for instance, emphasizes a grain-to-glass approach. They source ingredients directly from Texas farmers to ensure freshness and quality. The use of local grains also supports the regional economy and promotes sustainable farming practices. Corn provides sweetness and depth, while winter wheat adds a smooth, creamy texture to the spirits.
Hill Country Artesian Spring Water
The pure, mineral-rich water from Hill Country artesian springs is another key ingredient in Austin's distillery offerings. This water is naturally filtered through limestone, which enhances its quality and subtly influences the flavor profile of the distilled spirits. The balanced mineral content is ideal for producing premium whiskeys and other distilled beverages.
Fierce Whiskers Distillery leverages this high-quality water in their rye and bourbon whiskeys. The distillery’s commitment to using local ingredients extends to their water source, ensuring that each batch of spirits retains a true sense of place. By using Hill Country spring water, these distilleries not only create superior products but also highlight the natural resources of Central Texas.
Tasting and Tours
Austin’s distilleries offer a mix of whiskey tastings and cocktail crafting experiences, each providing a unique insight into their production processes and spirit varieties. Visitors can explore tasting rooms, witness state-of-the-art facilities, and enjoy diverse spirits.
Whiskey Tastings
Many Austin distilleries, like Still Austin Whiskey Co. and Fierce Whiskers Distillery, provide engaging whiskey tastings. At Still Austin Whiskey Co., guests can sample bourbons and other whiskeys made from local Texas grains. The tasting room offers an opportunity to appreciate the distinct flavors and craftsmanship behind each bottle.
Fierce Whiskers Distillery's state-of-the-art production facility highlights their sustainable approach to whiskey-making. Tours often include tastings of rye and bourbon whiskeys, allowing visitors to experience the full range of their offerings. These tastings not only present the different types of whiskeys but also educate visitors on the various distilling techniques and aging processes.
Cocktail Crafting Experiences
Besides whiskey tastings, some distilleries focus on cocktail crafting experiences. Still Austin Whiskey Co. and other local distilleries often host workshops where participants can learn to create various cocktails.
In these sessions, expert mixologists guide attendees through the process of using different spirits such as whiskey, gin, and vodka to craft unique beverages. The hands-on experience includes learning about the balance of flavors, proper mixing techniques, and presentation tips. Whether it's a classic Old Fashioned or a creative new concoction, participants leave with a better appreciation and skill set for making cocktails at home.
Austin's Craft Cocktail Culture
Austin has an exciting craft cocktail culture with numerous distinctive bars and food pairings. This scene is driven by innovative mixology and locally sourced spirits.
Craft Cocktail Bars
Austin's craft cocktail bars are famous for their inventive menus and vibrant atmospheres. Drink.Well stands out with its extensive selection of over 75 American whiskies and a mix of classic and contemporary cocktails.
Ah Sing Den in East Austin offers imaginative cocktails in a stylish setting, perfectly complemented by inventive Asian dishes. Another must-visit is the Tasting Room at the Spirit of Texas Independent Distillery, known for its chic mid-century modern decor and expertly crafted beverages.
For those interested in a blend of tradition and modernity, Garrison Brothers Distillery and Deep Eddy Vodka Tasting Room provide unique experiences with their specialized spirits and engaging environments.
Pairings and Food Trucks
Food pairings and food trucks play a crucial role in Austin's cocktail scene. Ah Sing Den pairs its inventive cocktails with delicious Asian-inspired cuisine, creating a harmonious dining experience.
The Vodka Garden at Spirit of Texas welcomes dogs and offers a leafy outdoor setting perfect for trying different rum and whiskey combinations with local food truck fare.
Garrison Brothers Distillery often collaborates with nearby food vendors to provide mouth-watering options that complement their whiskeys. At places like Deep Eddy Vodka Tasting Room, expect to find rotating food trucks featuring local delicacies that match perfectly with their vodka offerings.
Events and Community
Austin's distilleries form an integral part of the local culture, offering a variety of events and gatherings that bring the community together. From the iconic Austin City Limits to Whiskey Garden events, there is much to explore.
Austin City Limits
Austin City Limits (ACL) is a notable cultural event that brings music lovers together, creating a vibrant backdrop for the city's distilleries to feature tastings and pop-up bars.
During the festival, attendees can sample locally crafted spirits from popular distilleries such as Deep Eddy and Treaty Oak. These distilleries often set up interactive booths, allowing participants to learn more about the distillation process while enjoying live music.
ACL is held at Zilker Park, providing an excellent opportunity for distilleries to engage with a broad audience.
Whiskey Garden Events
Whiskey Garden events are popular in Austin, offering a unique venue to enjoy craft spirits in a relaxing outdoor setting.
Still Austin Whiskey Co. is renowned for hosting such events at their location on E St Elmo Rd. These events often feature live music, food trucks, and themed nights, creating a lively atmosphere.
Participants can enjoy a range of activities, including guided tastings and interactive workshops, all while relaxing in a beautifully designed outdoor patio adorned with local art and decor.
These gatherings offer both locals and visitors a chance to socialize and immerse themselves in Austin's thriving craft spirits scene.
Sustainability and Innovation
Austin's distilleries are renowned for their commitment to sustainability and innovation. By embracing organic distilling practices and experimenting with unique spirits, these distilleries are pushing the boundaries of the industry.
Organic Distilling Practices
Many of Austin's distilleries are dedicated to sustainable, organic distilling practices. They source ingredients from local, Texas-based farmers who adhere to organic farming methods, ensuring that each spirit is made from the purest materials available.
For example, Still Austin Whiskey Co. uses 100% Texas-grown grains, which are processed in their grain-to-glass distillery. This approach not only supports local agriculture but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance ingredient transportation.
Additionally, small-batch production methods are employed to minimize waste and enhance quality control. By focusing on smaller production runs, distilleries can maintain higher standards and avoid the pitfalls of mass production.
Experimental Spirits
Innovation is at the heart of Austin's distilling scene. Distilleries frequently experiment with new flavors, techniques, and aging processes to create unique, one-of-a-kind spirits.
One notable example is the creation of whiskey using unusual grains or non-traditional aging environments. Still Austin Whiskey Co. is known for its experimental approach, constantly refining and pushing the boundaries of their craft to produce distinctive, high-quality spirits.
Small-batch distilling allows for greater flexibility in experimentation. This enables distilleries to test new recipes and methods without needing large-scale production.
Moreover, these experimental spirits often become the basis for future trends in the industry, solidifying Austin's position as a leader in both sustainability and innovation.
Visiting and Supporting Local Distilleries
Visiting local distilleries in Austin offers a unique experience that combines education, tasting, and shopping for exclusive spirits and merchandise.
Gift Shops and Merchandise
Many Austin distilleries feature well-stocked gift shops selling a range of branded merchandise and exclusive spirits.
Visitors can find limited-edition bottles, glassware, apparel, and other souvenirs. For example, Still Austin Whiskey Co. offers items made from their original barrels and various clothing items.
Purchasing merchandise directly supports these local businesses and ensures you take a bit of the experience home. Shopping at the distillery, rather than a generic liquor store, often provides access to special releases not available elsewhere.
Visitor Center Tours
Distilleries in Austin commonly host guided tours through their visitor centers. These tours provide insight into the distillation process, the history of the distillery, and detailed information about their products.
At Still Austin Whiskey Co., tours might include a walkthrough of the grain-to-glass process and tastings of their bourbon and whiskey. Tours often conclude with a sampling session, featuring their familiar spirits presented straight or in cocktails.
Engagement through these tours not only enhances knowledge but also fosters a deeper connection to the local craft and its creators.
The Future of Distilling in Austin
Innovation is at the forefront of distilling in Austin. Local distilleries are embracing new technologies and methods. They are not just producing traditional spirits but are also venturing into unique craft spirits.
In recent years, there's been a significant focus on aging techniques. Distilleries are experimenting with different types of barrels, from classic oak to more unconventional woods. This experimentation is aimed at creating new flavor profiles and enhancing the quality of their products.
The use of sustainable practices is becoming more prevalent. Distilleries are exploring ways to make their processes eco-friendly. This includes using locally sourced grains and implementing energy-efficient systems.
Barreling practices are being refined. Distilleries in Austin are investing in high-quality barrels to improve the maturation process. The choice of barrels directly impacts the final product, making it a crucial aspect of modern distilling.
Local laws and regulations are evolving. The number of permits issued to new distilleries has seen a significant increase. This is fostering a competitive and dynamic environment for craft distilling in Austin.
As a result, consumers can expect a wide variety of spirits that showcase the creativity and skill of Austin's distillers. From traditional whiskeys to inventive gins and vodkas, the future of distilling in Austin is bright and diverse.
