Still Austin Whiskey Co. History and Whiskeys

Introduction

Welcome to the fascinating world of Still Austin Whiskey Co.! 🥃 Nestled in the heart of Texas, this distillery has captured the essence of local craftsmanship and the spirit of innovation.

In this blog post, we'll explore the rich history of Still Austin Whiskey Co., delve into their unique production processes, and savor the delightful whiskeys they offer. Understanding their journey and products will enhance your appreciation for this remarkable brand. Let's dive in! 🌟

The Origins of Still Austin Whiskey Co.

Founding of the Distillery

Every great story has an inspiring beginning. 📖 Still Austin Whiskey Co. was founded to create premium whiskey using Texas-grown ingredients. The founders, a passionate group of entrepreneurs, aimed to blend tradition with innovation. Their agriculture, distilling, and business backgrounds created the perfect mix to establish a successful distillery.

Early Challenges and Milestones

The journey could have been smoother. 🛤️ Initially, the distillery faced challenges typical in the craft distilling industry, including regulatory hurdles and production setbacks. However, their determination paid off as they achieved significant milestones, such as receiving critical acclaim and industry recognition. 🏅 These achievements bolstered their reputation and set them on a path to success.

Commitment to Local Sourcing

A key pillar of Still Austin Whiskey Co.'s philosophy is its commitment to local sourcing. Using Texas-grown ingredients supports local farmers and infuses their whiskeys with a unique Texan character. 🌾 This dedication to local partnerships ensures high-quality raw materials and strengthens community ties. 🤝

The Production Process

Unique Distillation Methods

Still, Austin Whiskey Co. employs unique distillation methods that set it apart from other distilleries. Their process involves:

• Handcrafted copper pot stills: These traditional stills help create a rich and complex flavor profile. 🏺

• Slow fermentation: Allowing the mash to ferment slowly enhances the depth of flavors. ⏳

• Single barrel selection: Each barrel is carefully selected to ensure only the best whiskey is bottled. 🛢️

Aging and Barrelling

The aging process is crucial to developing the whiskey's character. Still, Austin Whiskey Co. uses new charred American oak barrels to impart rich vanilla, caramel, and oak flavors. The Texas climate, with its hot summers and mild winters, accelerates the aging process, giving their whiskeys a distinctive maturity in a shorter time. 🌞❄️

Quality Control and Innovation

Quality control is paramount at Still Austin Whiskey Co. They implement rigorous testing at every production stage to maintain consistency and excellence. Additionally, they embrace innovation by continuously experimenting with different grains, yeast strains, and aging techniques to refine their offerings. 💡

Exploring Still Austin's Whiskeys

Still Austin The Musician

One of the standout products from Still Austin is "The Musician" bourbon. 🎶

Mash Bill and Ingredients

The Musician's mash bill includes a high percentage of corn, which gives the whiskey its signature sweetness and smooth texture. Corn is the backbone of this bourbon, providing a rich and creamy base. Rye complements the corn, adding a delightful spiciness and complexity to the flavor profile.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich aromas of caramel, vanilla, and honey greet you with a warm embrace and reminiscent of a cozy kitchen on a cool morning. Hints of toasted oak and a slight nuttiness add complexity and depth.

• Palate: The first sip reveals a symphony of flavors, with smooth dark chocolate and toasted oak taking the lead. Layers of dried fruit, including raisins and apricots, provide a sweet counterbalance, while a touch of spice dances on the tongue, keeping the profile exciting and dynamic.

• Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, with gentle spice lingering and a subtle smokiness. A touch of sweet corn and vanilla rounds out the experience, leaving you craving the next sip.

Cocktail with The Musician: Texas Sunset

Ingredients

• 2 oz Still Austin The Musician Bourbon

• 1 oz fresh lemon juice

• 1 oz simple syrup

• two dashes of Angostura bitters

• 2 oz club soda

• Lemon wheel and cherry for garnish

• Ice

Directions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

2. Add 2 oz of The Musician bourbon, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, 1 oz simple syrup, and two dashes of Angostura bitters.

3. Shake well until the mixture is chilled.

4. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.

5. Top with 2 oz of club soda.

6. Stir gently to combine.

7. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a cherry.

Suggested Cigar: Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story

Reasons for Pairing

The Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story is a classic cigar known for its balanced flavors and medium strength. Here’s why it pairs beautifully with the Texas Sunset:

1. Flavor Harmony: The Musician bourbon in the Texas Sunset has rich caramel and vanilla notes, complemented by the citrusy lemon juice and bitters. The Short Story offers flavors of cedar, spice, and a hint of sweetness, which harmonize well with the bourbon's profile.

2. Medium Strength: The medium strength of the cigar ensures that it doesn't overpower the cocktail. Instead, it allows the nuanced flavors of the drink and the cigar to shine.

3. Aromatic Experience: The cigar's cedar and spice aromas enhance the cocktail's aromatic complexity, making each puff and sip a delightful sensory experience.

The Texas Sunset is a refreshing cocktail that highlights The Musician bourbon's rich caramel and vanilla notes. The citrusy lemon juice and sweet, simple syrup balance the bourbon's spice, while the bitters add a hint of complexity. Paired with the Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story, this combination is perfect for a warm evening, offering a true taste of Texas. 🍋🍒

Still Austin, The Artist

Another exceptional offering is "The Artist" bourbon. 🎨

Mash Bill and Ingredients

The Artist features a carefully crafted mash bill with a unique blend of grains sourced locally to capture the essence of Texas. 🏜️ At the heart of this bourbon is a high percentage of corn, imparting a natural sweetness and a creamy mouthfeel that serves as the foundation of the whiskey. This Texas-grown corn is complemented by a precise proportion of wheat, which adds a layer of softness and smoothness to the profile, enhancing the overall drinking experience.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Inviting scents of butterscotch, cinnamon, and apple create a welcoming bouquet, evoking memories of autumn desserts. Subtle notes of roasted nuts and a whisper of floral undertones add layers of intrigue.

• Palate: "The Artist" is a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy flavors. Maple syrup and nutmeg take center stage, followed by hints of brown sugar and baked apples. The complexity deepens with a touch of clove and a creamy mouthfeel that enhances the richness.

• Finish: The finish is warm and lingering, with the sweetness gradually fading to reveal a gentle oakiness. Subtle hints of caramel and a slight earthiness leave a lasting impression, making each sip delightful.

Cocktail with The Artist: Lone Star Old Fashioned

Ingredients

• 2 oz Still Austin The Artist Bourbon

• one sugar cube

• three dashes of orange bitters

• Splash of water

• Orange twist and cherry for garnish

• Ice

Directions

1. Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass.

2. Add three dashes of orange bitters and a splash of water.

3. Muddle the sugar cube until it is fully dissolved.

4. Fill the glass with a large ice cube.

5. Pour 2 oz of The Artist bourbon over the ice.

6. Stir gently to combine.

7. Garnish with an orange twist and a cherry.

Suggested Cigar: Padron 1964 Anniversary Series Maduro

Reasons for Pairing

The Padron 1964 Anniversary Series Maduro is a rich, full-bodied cigar that pairs wonderfully with the Lone Star Old Fashioned. Here’s why:

1. Flavor Depth: The Artist bourbon’s sweet and spicy notes, combined with the orange bitters and sugar, create a complex flavor profile. The Padron 1964 Maduro complements and enhances these notes with its rich chocolate, coffee, and earthy flavors.

2. Full-Bodied Experience: The Padron cigar's full-bodied nature stands up well to the bold flavors of the Old Fashioned, ensuring neither is overshadowed.

3. Long Finish: The cigar and the cocktail have long, satisfying finishes. The lingering flavors of the Padron Maduro, with its sweet and spicy undertones, mirror The Artist bourbon's warm, lingering finish, creating a cohesive and enjoyable pairing.

Conclusion

The Lone Star Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail with a Texan twist. The Artist bourbon's sweet and spicy notes blend perfectly with the orange bitters and sugar, creating a smooth and flavorful drink. Paired with the Padron 1964 Anniversary Series Maduro, this combination elevates the drinking and smoking experience, offering a perfect balance of bold and complex flavors. 🍊🍒

Limited Edition Releases

Seasonal and Special Bottlings

Still Austin Whiskey Co. also offers limited edition releases that whiskey enthusiasts eagerly anticipate. These special bottlings often feature unique characteristics, such as:

• Barrel-strength variations: Bottled directly from the barrel without dilution. 🛢️

• Experimental cask finishes: Aged in barrels previously used for other spirits like wine or rum. 🍷

Collectability and Popularity

These limited editions are highly sought after due to their exclusivity and the innovative approach to whiskey-making. Collectors and connoisseurs prize these bottles for their unique flavors and the prestige of owning a rare piece of Still Austin's craftsmanship. 🌟

Community and Environmental Initiatives

Local Community Engagement

Still Austin Whiskey Co. is deeply rooted in the local community. They regularly host events and collaborate with local businesses, artists, and musicians. 🎤 These initiatives foster a sense of community and showcase the vibrant culture of Austin, Texas. 🎸

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability is a core value for Still Austin. Their efforts to reduce environmental impact include:

• Eco-friendly packaging: Using recycled materials for their bottles and labels. ♻️

• Sustainable farming practices: Partnering with farmers who use environmentally friendly methods. 🌱

• Water conservation: Implementing techniques to minimize water usage during production. 💧

Conclusion

In summary, Still Austin Whiskey Co. is a beacon of quality and innovation in the whiskey industry. Their commitment to local sourcing, unique production methods, and community engagement sets them apart. The delightful whiskeys they produce, including The Musician and The Artist, offer a taste of Texas in every sip. 🥃

Discover Yourself

Now is the perfect time if you have yet to experience the magic of Still Austin's whiskeys. Visit their distillery for a tour and tasting session, or pick up a bottle of The Musician or The Artist to enjoy at home. Cheers to the spirit of Texas and the craftsmanship of Still Austin Whiskey Co.! 🥃✨