Texas Whiskey

Everyone knows one thing to be true: everything is bigger and better in Texas. If you didn’t already know, Texas whiskey is no exception. That’s why, in recent years, Texas whiskey has been gaining popularity for its unique characteristics.

The birthplace of bourbon, located not too far away in Kentucky, is world-renowned for creating this barrel-aged, predominantly corn-style of whiskey. Though 95% of the world’s bourbon is made in Kentucky, it can be made anywhere in the United States, including Texas. That’s why we’re excited to make genuine Texas bourbon here at ReVerb Distilling. 

Though Texas whiskey is now gaining popularity, there are deep roots in its whiskey history, dating back to the 1800s. Ranchers in Texas would often use their own corn or barley to make unique whiskey, and it was a staple for close to seventy years until production was wiped out almost completely in the 1900s due to prohibition and a grapevine pest called phylloxera. Luckily, in the 1990s, we saw a massive return of the production of Texas whiskey, and it’s been a growing industry ever since. 

The climate in Texas plays a big factor in the aging process. In Kentucky, whiskeys typically take about eight years to age because of the temperate climate. Texas, however, is known for ‘experiencing four seasons all in one day,’ and faces considerable shifts in temperature and humidity. It makes for a unique flavor and also a quicker aging process - typically half the time of Kentucky. 

Local grains also play an essential role in the distilling process. Just like in the 1800s, most Texans have access to the grains they need to make whiskey since Texas is a massive producer of corn, wheat, rye, and barley. The grains used in whiskey can drastically change the flavor, aroma, and body. 

Another local influence that plays a part in the Texas distilling process is the oak of their native trees, which includes mesquite or live oak. Barrel-aged whiskey requires years of maturing on oak, so you can imagine the vast effects that the oak itself will have on the final product. 

At ReVerb, we are excited for you to try our American bourbon, along with our rye whiskey, gin, and rum, all born and raised here at our Austin, Texas distillery.