In the heart of Fort Worth, Texas, TX Whiskey has made waves in the whiskey world with the release of its oldest bourbon to date—a 7-year-old bottled-in-bond expression that marks a significant milestone for the distillery. This latest addition to the TX Whiskey Experimental Series, known as the 7-Year Anniversary Batch, showcases the distillery’s dedication to crafting high-quality, innovative spirits while staying true to its Texas roots. With only 1,700 bottles available, this limited release is already generating buzz among whiskey enthusiasts.
A Brief History of TX Whiskey
Founded in 2010 by Leonard Firestone and Troy Robertson, TX Whiskey has quickly risen to prominence in the Texas whiskey scene. The distillery is located at Whiskey Ranch, a sprawling 112-acre property that was once home to the Glen Garden Country Club, just outside downtown Fort Worth. This unique setting adds a touch of charm to the distillery, blending Texas history with modern whiskey-making innovation.
In 2012, TX Whiskey launched its core blended whiskey, which incorporated sourced spirits. Over the years, the distillery has shifted its focus to producing exceptional in-house bourbons, ryes, and cask-finished expressions. In 2019, the distillery was acquired by Pernod Ricard, a French spirits giant, joining a prestigious lineup of American whiskey brands like Jefferson’s Bourbon and Rabbit Hole Distillery. Despite its growth, TX Whiskey remains committed to its Texas heritage, using local grains and a proprietary yeast strain derived from a Texas pecan to create distinctive flavors.
The Experimental Series: A Platform for Innovation
The 7-Year Anniversary Batch is the 12th release in TX Whiskey’s Experimental Series, a collection known for pushing the boundaries of whiskey production. Previous releases in the series have included unique blends, such as a high-rye bourbon and a rye whiskey made from 100% rye grain, as well as cask-finished expressions like bourbons aged in Tawny Port, PX Sherry, and Cognac casks. These experiments have allowed TX Whiskey to explore new flavor profiles and showcase the versatility of Texas whiskey.
Unlike some of the more adventurous releases in the series, the 7-Year Anniversary Batch takes a more traditional approach. This bottled-in-bond bourbon is a testament to the distillery’s early days, highlighting the quality of its foundational whiskey-making process. “While our experimental releases have explored new avenues and pushed boundaries, the 7-Year Anniversary Batch is a testament to our roots,” said Craig Blair, TX Whiskey’s head blender. “It offers a refined expression of where we started and where we’re headed.”
What Makes the 7-Year Anniversary Batch Special?
The 7-Year Anniversary Batch stands out for several reasons. First, it’s the oldest bourbon TX Whiskey has ever released, having been aged for seven years in new charred oak barrels. The whiskey was distilled in 2018 during the initial runs on the distillery’s large column still, making it a piece of TX Whiskey’s history. Its bottled-in-bond designation adds another layer of prestige, as it adheres to strict regulations set by the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897.
For those unfamiliar with the term, a bottled-in-bond whiskey must meet specific criteria: it must be at least four years old, bottled at exactly 100 proof (50% ABV), aged in a federally bonded warehouse, and produced by a single distillery during a single distillation season. These rules ensure a high level of quality and consistency, making bottled-in-bond whiskeys a favorite among bourbon purists.
The 7-Year Anniversary Batch was crafted to reflect the bold spirit of innovation that TX Whiskey has cultivated at Whiskey Ranch. According to official tasting notes, the bourbon offers a rich and complex flavor profile. On the nose, drinkers can expect aromas of vanilla, caramel, roasted pecans, and red apple. The palate delivers notes of crème brûlée, dark cherries, and warm oak spice, creating a well-balanced and flavorful sipping experience.
A Limited Release with a Big Celebration
With only 1,700 350 ml bottles available, the 7-Year Anniversary Batch is a highly exclusive release. Priced at $40, the bottles will be sold exclusively at Whiskey Ranch starting later in April 2025. Given the limited quantity and the hype surrounding this release, whiskey fans are expected to act quickly to secure a bottle.
To mark the occasion, TX Whiskey is hosting a launch party at Whiskey Ranch on Saturday, April 26, 2025. The event promises to be a lively celebration, featuring live music, food, and opportunities to sample the new bourbon. The party will give visitors a chance to experience the unique atmosphere of Whiskey Ranch, with its stunning views of downtown Fort Worth and its modern distillery facilities.
The Whiskey Ranch Experience
Whiskey Ranch is more than just a distillery—it’s a destination for whiskey lovers. Located on the historic grounds of a former golf course, the 112-acre property is the largest whiskey distillery west of the Mississippi. Visitors can take immersive tours that explore the art and science of whiskey-making, from the distillation process to the aging of barrels in the distillery’s warehouses. The tours also highlight TX Whiskey’s commitment to using Texas-grown grains and its proprietary pecan yeast, which contribute to the unique flavors of its spirits.
Beyond the tours, Whiskey Ranch offers a range of experiences, including tastings at the distillery’s Tavern, craft cocktails made by expert mixologists, and shopping at the Ranch Store, where visitors can purchase bottles, glassware, and other TX Whiskey merchandise. The distillery’s picturesque setting, with its views of Benders Lake and the Fort Worth skyline, makes it a perfect spot for whiskey enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Where to Find TX Whiskey
While the 7-Year Anniversary Batch is exclusive to Whiskey Ranch, TX Whiskey’s core lineup, including its blended whiskey and straight bourbon, is available at retailers across several states, including Texas, Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, and more. Online platforms like ReserveBar also carry TX Whiskey products, making it easier for fans outside Texas to get their hands on a bottle. However, previous Experimental Series releases have been known to fetch high prices on the secondary market, so collectors should be prepared for inflated costs if they’re seeking out older bottlings.
Why This Release Matters
The release of the 7-Year Anniversary Batch is a significant moment for TX Whiskey. Not only does it represent the distillery’s oldest bourbon to date, but it also underscores its growth and evolution since its founding in 2010. By producing a bottled-in-bond whiskey, TX Whiskey is proving that it can compete with the best in the industry while staying true to its Texas identity.
The Experimental Series has been a key part of TX Whiskey’s journey, allowing the distillery to experiment with new techniques and flavors while building a loyal following. The 7-Year Anniversary Batch bridges the gap between innovation and tradition, offering a bourbon that honors the distillery’s early days while showcasing its potential for the future.
Final Thoughts
TX Whiskey’s 7-Year Anniversary Batch is a must-try for bourbon lovers and a testament to the distillery’s commitment to quality and innovation. With its rich flavor profile, bottled-in-bond designation, and limited availability, this bourbon is sure to be a sought-after release. Whether you’re a longtime fan of TX Whiskey or a newcomer to the Texas whiskey scene, a visit to Whiskey Ranch to sample this bourbon—or at least snag a bottle—promises to be a memorable experience.
For those who can’t make it to Fort Worth, keep an eye on TX Whiskey’s core offerings and future Experimental Series releases. With its unique approach to whiskey-making and its deep connection to Texas, TX Whiskey is a distillery to watch in the years to come.
