When you think about Austin, Texas, a lot of things probably come to mind: good music, amazing food, and a really unique vibe. What you might not immediately think of, however, is a place where you can find some truly special whiskey, made right there in the city. Yet, that's exactly what Still Austin Whiskey offers, giving folks a chance to see how some really good spirits come to be, from start to finish. It's a place that brings together the craft of making drinks with the laid-back, friendly spirit of Austin itself, making it a spot worth checking out for anyone curious about what goes into a fine glass of whiskey.
This spot, you know, is more than just a place where drinks are made; it's a whole experience, honestly. You can walk around, see the big equipment, and even get to taste some of what they make. They've got whiskey, sure, but also gin and some pretty tasty cocktails, too. It's a chance to spend some time, perhaps with friends, and just soak in the atmosphere of a place that's bringing back a long-lost tradition of spirit production to the city. It's quite a neat thing to see, really, how everything comes together.
For those who appreciate a well-made drink or just enjoy learning about how things are created, Still Austin Whiskey provides a welcoming space. You can get a sense of the care and effort that goes into each bottle, which is pretty cool, in a way. Whether you're looking for a relaxed afternoon activity or simply want to pick up a bottle of something special, this spot has something for you. It's a local gem, definitely, that adds to the flavor of Austin in more ways than one.
Table of Contents
- The Story Behind Still Austin Whiskey
- What Makes Still Austin Whiskey Special?
- Visiting Still Austin Whiskey - What to Expect?
- Where Can You Find Still Austin Whiskey?
- Is Still Austin Whiskey a Good Choice for Bourbon Lovers?
- How Does Still Austin Whiskey Support Sustainability?
The Story Behind Still Austin Whiskey
The story of Still Austin Whiskey is, in some respects, quite a remarkable one for the city. It's not every day that a place becomes the first of its kind in such a long time. This spot, you see, holds the distinction of being the first whiskey maker within Austin city limits since the days of prohibition. That's a pretty big deal, honestly, marking a return to a tradition that was put on hold for many years. It opened its doors in September of 2017, and since then, it's been making a name for itself by producing spirits right here in the heart of Texas.
The whole operation, which takes up a good 10,000 square feet, is a testament to their dedication to making things locally. They don't just bottle here; they do everything, from taking the grain to putting the finished product into bottles. This means they handle the milling, which is grinding the grains, then the mashing, where they mix it with water, and the fermenting, letting it sit and change. After that, there's the distilling, where the magic really happens, followed by barreling, letting it age, and finally, bottling. It's a complete process, all happening under one roof, which is pretty cool, actually.
This commitment to doing everything themselves, right there in Austin, gives their spirits a real connection to the place. It's not just about making whiskey; it's about making Austin whiskey, with all the character that implies. You can feel that sense of local pride when you visit, which is quite appealing. It shows a deep care for the product and for the community it's a part of, which, in a way, makes the whiskey taste even better, knowing its roots are so firmly planted in the city.
Who is John Schrepel at Still Austin Whiskey?
Leading the production at Still Austin Whiskey is a person named John Schrepel, who is, you know, their head distiller. He's the one who really guides the process of making their spirits. It's interesting to note that John originally hails from New York, which is a bit different from the usual Texas background you might expect. He's had to get used to the Texas warmth, as he puts it, but he's clearly made himself at home here, guiding the creation of their drinks with skill and care.
His experience and knowledge are, apparently, a big part of what makes the spirits at Still Austin so good. He oversees all those steps we talked about earlier – the milling, mashing, fermenting, distilling, barreling, and bottling. Having someone with his background and understanding of the craft is definitely a key ingredient in their success. It's pretty clear that he puts a lot of thought and effort into every batch, making sure it meets their high standards.
The company, for its part, gives a lot of credit for their accomplishments to the help they received from some well-known folks in the industry. People like Nancy Fraley and Mike Delavante offered guidance, which, you know, really helped shape what Still Austin Whiskey has become. So, while John is at the helm of production, it's also been a collaborative effort, with good advice from seasoned experts helping them along the way. It's a team effort, really, that brings these spirits to life.
What Makes Still Austin Whiskey Special?
When you consider what makes Still Austin Whiskey stand out, it really comes down to a few core things that they focus on. One big part is their dedication to what they call "the art of Texas whiskey." This isn't just a catchy phrase; it speaks to how they approach making their spirits. They really want to celebrate the rich history and the spirit of innovation that you find in Texas, and they try to put that into every bottle. It's about more than just alcohol; it's about creating something that reflects the place it comes from, which is pretty unique, actually.
They also put a lot of emphasis on the careful work behind making their whiskey. It's not a rushed process; it's done with a lot of thought and attention to detail. This focus on the craft means they pay close attention to each step, from selecting the grains that go into the mash to how long the whiskey ages in its barrel. This kind of hands-on approach helps them create spirits that have a distinct character and flavor, which is something you can really taste, honestly.
Another thing that makes them special is their commitment to quality, especially with particular products like their Bottled in Bond whiskey. This type of whiskey has specific rules it must follow to get that name, like being made by one distiller in one season, aged for at least four years, and bottled at a certain proof. Their dedication to meeting these requirements shows how serious they are about producing something truly good. It's about embodying the true spirit of Texas craftsmanship, which is quite admirable, in a way.
Crafting Still Austin Whiskey from Grain to Glass
The process of making whiskey at Still Austin is, you know, a very hands-on journey that starts with the raw ingredients. It all begins with the grains, which are carefully chosen. These grains are then milled, meaning they're ground up, to prepare them for the next steps. This initial part is pretty important because the type of grain and how it's prepared really sets the stage for the flavors that will develop later. It's the first step in a rather long and careful process, honestly.
After milling, the grains go through mashing, where they're mixed with water and heated to create a sugary liquid. Then comes fermenting, which is where yeast is added to turn those sugars into alcohol. This part is where the liquid starts to become what we recognize as alcohol. It's a natural process, but it requires careful monitoring to ensure the right conditions for the yeast to do its work. This stage is, in a way, where the spirit really begins to take shape.
The liquid then moves to distilling, where it's heated to separate the alcohol from the water and other components. This is where the spirit becomes much stronger and purer. Following distillation, the spirit is put into barrels for barreling, where it will spend years aging. This aging period is incredibly important, as the wood of the barrel gives the whiskey its color and a lot of its flavor. Finally, after enough time has passed, the whiskey is ready for bottling, completing its journey from grain to glass, all done right there in the heart of Austin, which is pretty neat, actually.
Visiting Still Austin Whiskey - What to Expect?
If you're thinking about stopping by Still Austin Whiskey, you can expect a welcoming experience with plenty to see and do. They offer tours, which are a great way to get a closer look at how everything works. You can also enjoy tastings, giving you a chance to sample their different spirits, and of course, they serve whiskey, gin, and cocktails. It's a pretty laid-back place where you can just hang out and enjoy yourself, which is kind of nice, really.
When you drop in, you can take a tour and maybe have a cocktail or two in their tasting room. And if you get a little hungry while you're there, they even have a food trailer called Huckleberry Coastal Comforts right on site. So, you can grab a snack to go along with your drinks. It's a complete setup, honestly, designed for you to relax and have a good time. It’s definitely a spot where you can spend a good chunk of an afternoon, perhaps with some friends.
The tasting room itself is, apparently, a really lively spot. It's where people who enjoy whiskey gather for special tastings, new product introductions, and just to be part of the community. There's a good feeling there, a kind of shared enthusiasm for well-made spirits. So, whether you're looking to learn something new, try some delicious drinks, or just enjoy the company of others who appreciate good whiskey, Still Austin's tasting room events seem like a pretty good place to be, you know.
Enjoying Still Austin Whiskey Experiences
When you visit Still Austin Whiskey, one of the best ways to really get a feel for the place is to take one of their guided tours. These tours give you a chance to see, firsthand, how whiskey is made. You get to follow the whole process, starting from when they pick the grains all the way to when the finished product goes into the barrel. It’s a pretty interesting way to spend some time, learning about the artistry that goes into each bottle, which is quite fascinating, honestly.
Beyond the tours, the tasting room is a central part of the experience. It’s a spot where you can simply drop by for a tour, some tastings, and to enjoy their whiskey cocktails. It’s a comfortable place to sit, chat, and try out the different spirits they offer. This space is, you know, designed for you to really savor the flavors and appreciate the work that goes into each drink. It's a relaxed setting, perfect for a casual visit or a more focused tasting.
The atmosphere at Still Austin's tasting room events is often described as quite welcoming. It’s a place where people who really enjoy whiskey come together. These events can include special tastings of new or limited releases, launches of new products, and just general community gatherings. It’s a chance to connect with others who share a similar appreciation for spirits, which is, in a way, a nice bonus to the whole experience. You might even discover a new favorite drink, which is pretty cool.
Where Can You Find Still Austin Whiskey?
If you're looking to get your hands on some Still Austin Whiskey, there are several convenient ways to do so. One of the main places where you can find their spirits, and often at good prices, is at Total Wine & More. They carry a wide selection of Still Austin products, along with other wine, spirits, beer, and even accessories. So, if you're near one of their stores, that's a pretty straightforward option, you know, for picking up a bottle or two.
To make it even easier to locate their products, Still Austin has a tool on their website that helps you find where to buy their spirits. This locator helps you discover which top retailers and bars stock their crafted spirits in different places. So, whether you're at home or traveling, you can quickly figure out where to go to get a taste of their whiskey. It’s a handy feature, honestly, for anyone wanting to track down their favorite Still Austin drink.
And for those who prefer the convenience of shopping from home, you can also order Still Austin spirits online. Once you've placed your order, you have a few options for getting your items. You can choose to pick them up in a store, which is pretty quick, or you might be able to get local delivery, depending on where you are. If neither of those works, they can also ship items directly to you. So, there are quite a few ways to make sure you get your Still Austin spirits, which is good to know, really.
Getting Your Hands on Still Austin Whiskey Products
When it comes to getting Still Austin spirits, Total Wine & More is, you know, a place where you can typically find a good selection. They aim to offer some of the best prices on Still Austin products. This means you can often find what you're looking for without too much trouble, and perhaps even save a little money while you're at it. It's a reliable spot for many people who enjoy a wide variety of drinks, which is pretty convenient, actually.
For anyone who likes to shop from the comfort of their own home, Still Austin makes it pretty simple to order their spirits online. Once your order is placed, you have choices for how to receive it. You can pick up your purchase right at a store, which can be a quick way to get your items. Alternatively, if you're in an area that offers it, you might be able to get local delivery, bringing the spirits right to your door. This is a pretty nice option, honestly, for busy days.
And if picking up or local delivery isn't an option, they also have the ability to ship items directly to you. This means that no matter where you are, more or less, you can still get Still Austin spirits delivered. This flexibility in how you receive your order makes it much easier for people to enjoy their products, which is, in a way, a thoughtful approach to serving their customers. It shows they want to make their spirits available to as many people as possible.
Is Still Austin Whiskey a Good Choice for Bourbon Lovers?
For those who really enjoy bourbon, Still Austin offers some choices that are, apparently, quite appealing. They have, for example, a Cask Strength Bourbon that's described as having a really deep flavor. This kind of bourbon is bottled at a higher alcohol content, straight from the barrel, which means it offers a very intense taste experience. It's crafted for people who really appreciate the finer points of whiskey and are looking for something that stands out, which is pretty much what a connoisseur seeks, you know.
This particular bourbon is seen as reaching a very high level of whiskey making. It's not just a drink; it's considered a peak example of the artistry involved in creating spirits. The intense flavor comes from its strength and how it's aged, allowing the full character of the bourbon to shine through. So, if you're someone who likes a bold, full-bodied bourbon, this one seems like it would be right up your alley. It’s definitely made for those who want a strong and memorable taste, honestly.
They also have a Bottled in Bond whiskey, which, as we touched on earlier, shows a serious commitment to quality and tradition. This type of whiskey needs to meet specific government standards, which means it’s made with a lot of care and aged for a good amount of time. The dedication behind crafting and aging this particular whiskey to what they call "perfection" really embodies the true spirit of Texas craftsmanship. So, for bourbon lovers, these options from Still Austin seem to offer a lot to appreciate, which is pretty cool, actually.
The Depth of Still Austin Whiskey Flavors
When you try Still Austin's Cask Strength Bourbon, you'll likely notice a really profound depth to its taste. This isn't just any bourbon; it's designed to give you an intensely flavorful experience. Because it comes straight from the barrel at a higher proof, all those rich notes and complexities are, you know, much more pronounced. It's made for people who truly enjoy whiskey and are looking for something that offers a very strong and memorable flavor profile. It's a kind of experience that really lets you explore the different layers of taste, which is pretty neat.
This particular bourbon is crafted with connoisseurs in mind, those who seek out the very best in whiskey artistry. It represents what they consider to be the pinnacle of their whiskey making. The flavors are not subtle; they are bold and direct, offering a full sensory experience. It's the kind of drink you might want to savor slowly, letting each sip reveal something new about its character. So, for those who appreciate a powerful and rich bourbon, this one is definitely worth exploring, honestly.
Their Bottled in Bond whiskey also offers a deep flavor, but with a different kind of character, shaped by its specific aging requirements. The dedication that goes into crafting and aging this whiskey to what they call "perfection" is, you know, very clear in the final product. It truly shows the spirit of Texas craftsmanship, where attention to detail and patience result in a really fine drink. Both of these bourbons highlight Still Austin's commitment to creating spirits with significant flavor and a strong sense of place, which is quite admirable, in a way.
How Does Still Austin Whiskey Support Sustainability?
Still Austin Whiskey has a rather unique offer that, you know, also touches on a bit of sustainability, which is pretty interesting. They give you the chance to refill an empty Kentucky bourbon bottle with their own premium bourbon for just a dollar. This is a pretty unusual offer in the spirits world and shows a bit of creativity in how they approach things. It's a way to reuse bottles, which is good for the environment, and also gives you a very affordable way to enjoy their bourbon.
This offer is, in a way, a unique opportunity to experience Austin's own fine spirits without having to buy a brand new bottle every time. It's a practical step towards being a little more eco-friendly, by encouraging the reuse of glass. Plus, it's a very cost-effective way to keep your home bar stocked with their flavorful bourbon. So, it's a win-win, really, for both your wallet and the planet, which is quite thoughtful, honestly.
It's an offer that you definitely don't want to miss out on, especially if you're someone who enjoys good bourbon and also cares about making choices that are a bit more sustainable. It combines the pleasure of a flavorful drink with a practical, environmentally aware action. This kind of initiative shows that Still Austin is thinking about more than just making spirits; they're also considering their impact, which is pretty commendable, actually.
A Unique Offer from Still Austin Whiskey
One of the more distinctive things Still Austin Whiskey does is offer a chance to refill your empty Kentucky bourbon bottle with their own premium bourbon. This special deal costs just a dollar. It's not something you see every day, and it's a pretty smart way to enjoy their spirits while also, you know, doing a little something for the environment. It's a simple idea, but it makes a big difference in terms of reducing waste, which is pretty cool.
This offer is a truly unique way to get a taste of what Austin has to offer in terms of fine spirits. It provides a flavorful experience that's also, in a way, sustainable. By refilling a bottle, you're helping to cut down on the need for new glass production, which saves resources. So, you get to enjoy some really good bourbon, and you can feel good about your choice, too. It’s a pretty clever approach, honestly, that benefits everyone involved.
It’s definitely an offer you should keep in mind, especially if you happen to have an empty Kentucky bourbon bottle lying around. It’s a very practical and budget-friendly way to enjoy Still Austin’s premium bourbon. This kind of initiative highlights their innovative spirit and their desire to connect with customers in a different way. It's a little touch that, you know, makes them stand out from the crowd, showing they think outside the box.
Still Austin Whiskey is a place that brings the spirit of Texas to life in every bottle, from its history as Austin's first distillery since prohibition to the hands-on process led by John Schrepel and guided by industry experts. Visitors can experience this firsthand with tours, tastings, and cocktails in their lively tasting room, complete with a food trailer. Their diverse range of spirits, including intensely flavorful cask strength bourbon and meticulously crafted Bottled in Bond whiskey, are available at retailers like Total Wine & More and through convenient online ordering. They even offer a unique, sustainable bottle refill program, showing their commitment to both quality and thoughtful practices. It's a place where the art of whiskey making meets genuine Texas hospitality, creating a truly memorable experience for anyone who appreciates fine spirits.
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