TX Whiskey, a brand celebrated for its bold and innovative spirits, has once again captivated whiskey enthusiasts with recent announcements from its Experimental Series. Known for pushing boundaries, TX Whiskey has introduced two intriguing expressions that showcase the impact of Texas grain, climate, and meticulous craftsmanship: the TX Straight Rye Whiskey Bottled in Bond and the Lonestar Traditions blend. These limited-edition releases continue the distillery's tradition of creating small-batch whiskeys that highlight the unique qualities of their Fort Worth, Texas roots.
TX Straight Rye Whiskey Bottled in Bond: A Tribute to Texas Grain and Heat
The TX Straight Rye Whiskey Bottled in Bond, the fifth expression in the TX Experimental Series, represents a masterful combination of Texas-sourced ingredients and the intense maturation that comes with the state’s fluctuating weather. This release, crafted exclusively from rye grown on Sawyer Farms, offers a sensory journey that balances baking spices, fruity banana and apple notes, and a long finish infused with floral, caramel, and vanilla undertones.
Key Details:
- Distillation and Aging: This 100% rye whiskey was distilled during a single season on TX Whiskey’s custom column still at Whiskey Ranch and aged for over four years on the second floor of the rickhouse. The barrels endured the extremes of Texas heat, which Evan Brewer, Head Distiller, credits for the whiskey’s rich and unique flavor profile.
- Proof and Packaging: Bottled at 100 proof to meet the Bottled in Bond designation, this whiskey is available in limited quantities—just 1,500 bottles—at Whiskey Ranch. It retails for $39.99 in 375ml bottles, with customers restricted to purchasing two bottles within a 30-day period.
Brewer noted, “The Texas rye and aging conditions have created a standout whiskey that shines in its purity. The Bottled in Bond label further elevates its distinction, reflecting the integrity of our process.”
Lonestar Traditions: A Blend of Texas Maturity
The 11th release in the Experimental Series, Lonestar Traditions, takes a different approach, focusing on blending aged whiskeys to capture the essence of the holiday season. This release combines three different mashbills: a six-year-old rye, a wheated bourbon, and a ryed bourbon. Bottled at a robust 114 proof, it strikes a balance between sweetness, spice, and depth.
Flavor Profile:
- Aromas: Notes of orange clove, raisins, and nutmeg provide a warm and inviting introduction.
- Palate: The taste brings holiday spice, cinnamon graham cracker crust, and a hint of black tea, evoking the cozy feeling of winter nights and festive treats.
Head Blender Craig Blair explained, “We curated this blend to reflect the nostalgia of the holiday season—baked pies, ciders, and evenings by the fire. It’s a harmonious expression of some of our most mature whiskeys, showcasing the Texas seasons’ profound impact on each barrel.”
Availability and Price:
Like the TX Straight Rye Whiskey, Lonestar Traditions is limited in release, with 950 bottles available exclusively at Whiskey Ranch for $39.99. Enthusiasts must act quickly to secure a bottle of this sought-after blend.
Pushing Boundaries with the Experimental Series
Since its inception in 2012, TX Whiskey has carved out a reputation for innovative and high-quality products. Co-founders Leonard Firestone and Troy Robertson set out to redefine Texas whiskey, transforming a former country club into the acclaimed Whiskey Ranch distillery. The Experimental Series, which includes previous releases like TX High Rye Texas Straight Bourbon and TX Straight Bourbon Finished in Rum & Cognac Barrels, exemplifies the brand’s spirit of exploration.
The lineup has also embraced unconventional trends, such as the 110-proof light whiskey with a mashbill of 99% corn and 1% malted barley, and even a hazmat-proof unaged White Dog moonshine. The use of unique finishing barrels, including apricot brandy, sherry casks, and cabernet barrels, further demonstrates the team’s commitment to creativity.
A Celebration of Texas Craftsmanship
The Experimental Series is a testament to the artistry and innovation at TX Whiskey. Each release reflects the influence of Texas’ dynamic environment and the skillful blending and aging techniques honed at Whiskey Ranch. For those lucky enough to secure a bottle, these whiskeys offer a distinctive taste of Texas, capturing the state’s bold spirit and love for exceptional craftsmanship.
Whether it’s the pure rye expression of the Bottled in Bond release or the nuanced holiday-inspired Lonestar Traditions, TX Whiskey’s latest offerings solidify its place as a trailblazer in the world of American whiskey. Fans and collectors should act quickly to experience these limited-edition releases before they vanish into whiskey lore.
