Military Bourbon Review: Still Austin Cask Strength

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History – Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon is a product of the Still Austin Whiskey Co., a relatively new player in the bourbon scene with roots in Austin, Texas. Although Still Austin Whiskey Co. itself is a recent establishment, its story is deeply entwined with the rich history of bourbon-making in America and the resurgence of craft distilling in Texas.

The story of Still Austin Whiskey Co. begins with a group of friends who shared a passion for bourbon and a vision to create a craft distillery that honored the traditions of whiskey-making while embracing innovation and local ingredients. Founded in 2015 by Chris Seals, Andrew Braunberg, Sal and Joanna Salinas, and Cleveland Seals, Still Austin Whiskey Co. set out to craft authentic, high-quality spirits that reflected the unique character of Texas.

One of the key aspects of Still Austin’s approach is their commitment to using locally sourced grains, including Texas-grown corn, wheat, and malted barley. This emphasis on sourcing ingredients from nearby farms not only supports the local agricultural community but also ensures the freshest and highest quality grains for their whiskey production.

The process of creating Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon begins with the careful selection of grains, which are milled and mashed on-site at the distillery. The mash is then fermented using proprietary yeast strains, allowing for the development of complex flavors and aromas.

After fermentation, the mash is distilled in traditional copper pot stills, a method that allows for greater control over the distillation process and the retention of desirable congeners that contribute to the whiskey’s character. The distillate is then aged in new, charred oak barrels, where it undergoes maturation in the Texas climate, known for its wide temperature swings and high humidity.

The aging process is a critical stage in the development of Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon, as it allows the whiskey to interact with the wood of the barrels, absorbing flavors and compounds that contribute to its depth and complexity. The hot Texas summers accelerate the aging process, leading to more rapid extraction of flavors from the wood and resulting in a rich, robust bourbon.

Once the whiskey has reached its desired level of maturity, barrels are selected for bottling based on their unique characteristics and flavor profiles. Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon is bottled at its natural proof, without dilution or filtration, allowing consumers to experience the full intensity and complexity of the whiskey straight from the barrel.

In addition to its distinctive flavor profile, Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon is also known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The distillery employs eco-friendly practices throughout the production process, including water conservation measures and energy-efficient equipment. Lets dig in!

Value – Little expensive and would expect this to be around the $39.99 range for a 2 year old bourbon.

Appearance – 10! Beautiful original artwork mimicking the music scene in Austin, TX.

Nose – Light / Young / Cookie / Lavender

Palate – Pepper / Toffee / Watery / Cloves

Finish – Exceptionally Smooth / Fudge / Low Burn for 118 Proof which speaks a lot to the details that were put into making this.

Summary – This bourbon really took me for a loop as I was originally very very excited to try this. Having been to Austin for work I thought that this would bring a vibrance with it. I love the way it looks and feels but for the flavor profile its typical of a young bourbon.

“Hit the nail on the head with the smoothness but more age would make this stand out more.”

– Andrew Workman

Uniqueness- 1-10 – 3

Appearance- 1-10 – 10

Nose- 1-20 – 10

Palate- 1-20 – 6

Finish- 1-20 – 14

Value- 1-20 – 14