Hot on the heels of our coverage of its gin, Still Austin Whiskey Co.’s latest whiskey has arrived, its first ever cask strength bourbon, now available as a limited release. Roughly 2200 cases of the “at least two years old” bourbon were produced.

Made from 100% Texas grains, the new expression contains the same mash bill as the company’s flagship straight bourbon whiskey – 70% Non-GMO white corn, 25% Elbon rye and 5% wildfire malted barley – but without utilizing the slow water reduction process, resulting in a higher proof.

To create this robust bourbon, the team asked Master Blender Nancy Fraley to search through their barrels of Straight Bourbon and select the most complex and full-flavored ones—those that were begging to be blended and released at “barrel proof,” meaning the whiskey was bottled at the same proof at which it was aged. The resulting spirit is a masterpiece of complex, dark flavors with a deep spice finish.

An aggressive attack kicks off the experience with a substantial nose of barrel char, muddled with peanut brittle. A hint of dill pickle adds an herbal element. The palate has all the hallmarks of youth, though clearly well-crafted from start to finish, with a stronger peanut and caramel corn element leading to a lightly creamy body with a modest gingersnap note. As the finish approaches, a classic, lingering spice character arrives, along with a big reprise of peanutty notes. It’s engaging and the whole thing works well together, albeit in fairly straightforward fashion — but on the whole it’s a surprisingly vibrant whiskey considering its youthful age.

118 proof.

B+ / $65 / stillaustin.com 

Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon

$65

8.5

Rating

8.5/10