Balcones Texas Single Malt Whisky

A little background

Balcones Distillery began distilling in 2009 in Waco, TX and today produces quite a few different spirits. Today’s review is of Balcones Texas Single Malt Whisky, which is bottled at 106 Proof after being aged “at least 22 months” in oak. Today, Balcones is producing several types of spirits, however, they say that Single Malts are the drive and passion behind the brand. Retail price of around $90.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Light Copper

Nose

Surprisingly, the char is present on the nose of this whisky after being absent in the rest of the Balcones line. Hints of a Malted Chocolate Milkshake and an underlying nutmeg.

Palate

Caramel and malted barley take the forefront, but a little dried plum begins to peek through toward the middle of the palate.

Finish

Char returns with some dried dark fruit and a hint of spearmint.

In conclusion

Long story short, this was a very enjoyable whisky! To be fully transparent, I found Texas Single Malt to be head and shoulders better than the other Balcones expressions I’ve tried. I found it to have far more nuance and depth…and an inherently less youthful profile. The only thing I find off-putting is the $90 price tag. I would imagine a distillery would want to put their best whisky at a price point more drinkers would be comfortable paying, even if it was in the $50-$60 range. Regardless, it’s a very enjoyable Texas Single Malt and I’d recommend you give it a try!

NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Balcones. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.