whiskey tour austin tx

Austin Insider Blog

This blog, written and curated by Visit Austin staff, shares the things that visitors love and locals can't get enough of.

18 Best Austin Distilleries to Visit

Austin and the nearby Texas Hill Country are home to a spirited number of distilleries that are destinations in themselves. Stop in for a pour at an urban tasting room or set off on a Hill Country day trip. Here are 20 local craft spirits distilleries worth exploring.

1.  Desert Door Distillery

Desert Door Distillery in Driftwood is the country’s only sotol distillery, crafting a distinctive Texan spirit. Unique to Texas and northern Mexico, the rugged sotol plant thrives in the desert. Do some sotol sampling in the modern Tasting Room (try the earthy Desert Door Original), then grab some farm-to-table eats from the Eden West food truck and cozy up by the fireplace on a comfy couch surrounded by regional artwork. There’s also a family-friendly outdoor patio with live music and games. 

2. Garrison Brothers Distillery

Garrison Brothers Distillery in scenic Hye is the Lone Star State’s first and oldest whiskey distillery. Located on a small ranch, Garrison produces Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey made with its own organic winter wheat that’s grown and ground daily on site, along with plump yellow corn from the Texas Panhandle and fresh Hill Country rainwater. Take the one- to two-hour distillery tour (Tues-Sat.), which includes a taste of sweet mash and high-proof “white dog” right from the stills, along with samples of Garrison’s latest limited-release whiskey. 

3.  Dripping Springs Vodka & Gin

Dripping Springs Vodka & Gin , also found in Dripping Springs, produces its spirits in handmade copper pot stills. Brothers Gary and Kevin Kelleher founded the San Luis Spirits distillery, where they produce small 50-gallon batches of Dripping Springs vodka and gin using pure Hill Country artesian spring water. Tours are held Thursday through Sunday afternoons, and include a distillery tour, tastings and a souvenir shot glass. Settle in at Distillers Bar, featuring Dripping Springs' new tasting room, a craft cocktail and wine bar, and Southern bites from the kitchen.

4.  Treaty Oak Distilling

Located in Dripping Springs,  Treaty Oak Distilling  is named for the 500-year-old live oak tree in Austin that was the site where Stephen F. Austin (known as the "Father of Texas") signed a border agreement in the 1830s. Treaty Oak produces a number of spirits, including gin and bourbon, on its 28-acre, state-of-the-art distillery/ranch. Head out on the weekend to enjoy Saturday afternoon tours, live music, yard games, tastings at the Cocktail Lab and a gourmet bite from the on-site Alice’s Restaurant.

5. Planet Rock Vodka Distillery

Head northwest for a distillery the whole family can hang out at. Opened in late 2020,  Planet Rock 's distillery is the perfect place to chill with indoor and outdoor space, live music, a small petting zoo and more. Order one of their specialty cocktails made with Planet Rock vodka and chat with the owners, Catfish & Booge, about their small batch craft spirit!

6.  Revolution Spirits

Revolution Spirits is an experimental craft distillery that produces small batches of gin and liqueurs in Austin. Revolution’s signature is the contemporary, American-style Austin Reserve Gin, made with juniper, lemongrass and Texas grapefruit. It also produces liqueurs that include the Cafecito, blended with cuvee coffee. Tastings. cocktails and food are offered in the tasting room Friday through Sunday, with tours of the production area available by request. 

7.  Still Austin Whiskey Co.

Still Austin Whiskey Co. , located at The Yard , holds the distinction of being the first whiskey distillery located within Austin city limits since Prohibition. A true grain-to-glass distillery, everything is done in-house, from mashing to barreling and bottling. Take a  tour to see how Still Austin’s whiskey is made, then enjoy it straight up or in a cocktail best sipped in the whiskey garden. 

8.  Kooper Family Whiskey Co.

Located just a quick drive from Austin in Ledbetter is Kooper Family Whiskey Co. , a true mom-and-pop distillery known for its rye whiskies that are blended with pure limestone-filtered Travis County spring water and slowly matured in bourbon barrels. Try a flight of three rye whiskies in the tasting room, open Tuesday-Sunday.

9.  Banner Distilling Co.

Located on 12 acres of farmland on the outskirts of East Austin, Banner Distilling Co. is a small batch distillery built from the ground up by two craft beer and spirits enthusiasts looking to carve out a Texas distilling legacy with its smooth vodka and original whiskies. Join the 30-minute distillery tour and tasting experience, where you’ll get to try the award-winning Banner Natural Vodka and Texas Wheat Whiskey, available for sale in limited quantities.

10.  Real Ale Brewing Co

Producing craft beer since the mid-1990s, Real Ale Brewing Co launched Real Spirits Distilling out of its Blanco tap room in 2017. Stop by for a taste of its Texas Hill Country Signature Whiskey, Grain to Glass Gin, and the very limited first batch of its Single Barrel Whiskey. The tap room and beer garden are open Thursday through Sunday.

11.  Genius Gin

Genius Gin focuses on making this solitary spirit in two versions: Standard Strength (a homage to the classic London Dry variety) and Navy Strength (a sip-worthy version inspired by the historical proof carried on British Royal Navy fleets). Tours are offered by appointment only, with knowledgeable distillers who explain the history of gin and offer tastings.

12.  Texas Saké Company

Texas Saké Company , which uses centuries-old techniques to brew its saké, is a hidden little gem in Central Austin. The saké is produced in small batches, taking care to find the right balance of bold and crisp flavors. In the taproom, open Thursday through Sunday, try saké by the glass, as a flight or mixed in a cocktail at the Japanese-style bar, and chat with the resident Toji (master brewer).

13. Fierce Whiskers Distillery

The newly opened Fierce Whiskers Distillery in Austin produces rye and bourbon whiskeys in sustainable barrels. Visit the modern, solar-paneled tasting room, which features an airy courtyard. And be sure to take the tour that walks you through the distillery’s state-of-the-art production facility and five-story rick house. Don’t miss the yakitori eats from the on-site Char ATX food truck, offering char-grilled meats like New York strip and pork belly.

14. Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery

The family-friendly Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery in Spicewood spans 15 acres, with live music, outdoor games and craft cocktails. Post up in the rustic Still House and try a signature cocktail made with Iron Wolf spirits, or enjoy a sip in the Bourbon Garden. Take a tour (by appointment) to see how Iron Wolf whiskey, vodka, bourbon and gin are produced. And enjoy awesome sunsets around the fire pit.

15. Crowded Barrel Whiskey Co.

Crowded Barrel Whiskey Co. in Austin is the world’s first crowdsourced whiskey distillery. Crowded Barrel is backed by the Whiskey Tribe, a group of supporters who have a say in what whiskey the distillery makes. This freewheeling approach has led to experiments with everything from high-brow single malts to feral budget bourbons, as well as collaborations with other whiskey makers. Take a tour of the still and barrel house, which ends in the Fang & Feather tasting room, to get a peek at what Crowded Barrel is currently distilling. 

16.  Deep Eddy Vodka

Deep Eddy Vodka is a Dripping Springs favorite. Its sprawling 30,000-square-foot distillery includes a fun, retro-feel tasting room where you can sip specialty cocktails or sample flights Thursday through Sunday. Vodka varieties are flavored with fruit that includes cranberry, peach and ruby red grapefruit. Both kids and dogs are welcome to come sit a spell on the patio and take in the panoramic view of the surrounding Texas Hill Country.

17. Goodnight Loving Vodka

Step through a secret sliding bookcase to reach the tasting room at Goodnight Loving Vodka in Austin and try their super-smooth vodka, made with Texas artesian spring water. The tasting room evokes the golden age of cocktail culture, with chic mid century modern furniture and Sinatra setting the score. Dogs are welcome in the leafy Vodka Garden. 

18. Spirit of Texas Independent Distillery

Just north of Austin in Pflugerville, Spirit of Texas Independent Distillery  is making rum and whiskey with true flavors of Texas. Founder Shaun Siems was born and raised in Pflugerville, Texas and set out in 2006 to create quality top shelf spirits that were both affordable and representative of Texas. Now, Spirit of Texas makes award winning spirits to include their PFLUGER Single Malt Whiskey with flavors of nougat, dark chocolate and black pepper, and their Pecan Street Rum which is oak-aged and made with Texas pecans. Visit their tasting room on Fridays and Saturdays to get a taste for yourself!

19.  Milam & Greene Whiskey

Milam & Greene Whiskey is named for a larger-than-life Texas freedom fighter who was born in Kentucky, the birthplace of bourbon whiskey. Stop in at the distillery tasting room (Wednesday through Saturday), located in the picturesque small town of Blanco that’s known for the spring-fed Blanco River that runs through the center of the community. Pick up a bottle of the limited Distillery Edition Straight Bourbon Whiskey that you can only find at the distillery.

20. Tito's Handmade Vodka

Although you can't visit the iconic Tito's Handmade Vodka distillery in person, you'll find their products all around town. Stock up on Tito's merch at the Austin Visitor Center or stop in at their 2nd Street shop, Love, Tito's for more souvenirs. 

Looking for more Hill Country day trip ideas? Explore these 16 Day Trips & 5 Hill Country Towns Worth a Visit !

Christine Felton

Christine is the Director of Content & Digital Marketing at Visit Austin. She is a graduate of the University of Texas, proud South Austin resident and native Texan. She is passionate about travel, classic film, grammar, vegan cooking and live music. On the weekends, you may find her in her garden, at a nearby yoga studio, visiting a craft brewery or exploring a local nature preserve with her two pups.

This is the experience for all whiskey lovers. Our whiskey tour visits two Austin whiskey distilleries. 

This tour is ideal for:

• Bachelor & bachelorette parties 
• Corporate events
• Team Building 

These whiskey distilleries are just minutes from Downtown Austin. Come discover two customer-favorite Austin distilleries, Fierce Whiskers and Still Austin Whiskey. At each distillery, you will have the choice between a spirit flight or cocktails. 

Featured Austin Whiskey Tour

4:15- Pickup in Downtown Austin .

4:30- 6:00 Visit Fierce Whiskers Distillery- cocktail or spirit flight included

6:15- 7:45: Still Austin Distillery- cocktail or spirit  flight included

8:15: Drop off in Downtown Austin

Austin Whiskey Distilleries 

Fierce Whiskers Distillery

When you think of premium whiskey, you may not think of Austin, Texas. Fierce Whiskers is bound and determined to change that.  This distillery is out to prove that a truly great American whiskey can come from a truly unexpected place. 

Still Austin Whiskey

Still Austin makes whiskey for EVERYONE!  Their whiskey is hand-crafted: made from grain to glass, with a focus on quality. They do everything from sourcing the grains to facilitating distillation, and from crafting the bottles to designing their own specialty cocktails. From start to finish, a great deal of time and effort goes into every bottle of Still Austin. They call this love for process and craft “living the Still Life”.

What is Included in our Austin Distillery Tour?

• A cocktail or spirit flight at the two distilleries visited
• Possibility of customizing your itinerary 
• Four hours of transportation, with options to add on time following the scheduled drop off time
• Private transportation and driver in a Mercedes Sprinter 
• Custom pick up and drop off at a location of within the Downtown Austin zone
• Featured Tours
• Dripping Springs/Driftwood
• Fredericksburg
• Texas Hill Country
• Distilleries

Meet The Tipsy Team

Experience the magic of the holidays: a christmas tour to remember.

Let us curate the perfect tour for your needs. A set of questions will allow us to plan and assemble the tour of your dreams

• 512-593-1858
• [email protected]

Let's Chat!

There's no taste like home.

WE MAKE WHISKEY FOR EVERYONE: THE MUSICIANS, THE VISIONARIES, THE LOVERS, THE SCIENTISTS, THE ODDBALLS, THE ARTISTS, THE EVERYDAY DREAMERS.

Introducing the Still Austin Seasonal Bottled in Bond Series. Four limited release whiskeys distilled to capture the ingredients, flavors and themes of the seasons from which they were inspired.

straight bourbon whiskey

Blending sweet notes and bright tones together in perfect harmony, this is music in a bottle.

straight RYE whiskey

Art comes in many different forms—from the simplest line drawing to the most complex symphony—but all good art has something in common: It begins with inspiration.

cask strength ‍ bourbon whiskey

A deeper more "metal" version of our beloved straight bourbon. Bottled at 118 proof, we've combined power and subtlety in one gorgeous spirit.

cask strength ‍ rye whiskey

Combining the nuance of our Rye Whiskey with the robust intensity of a barrel-proof spirit. The result is an all-new “Artist” of distinctive vigor and complexity.

american gin

Twelve botanicals combine to form a gin for the uninhibited soul. It’s not polite to stare.

Grain-to-glass

Still Austin is proud to be one of the only distilleries in Texas to source grains from local farmers, distilled ecologically in-house, and aged right here in the Texas Hill Country. Using ingredients from our homeland allows the creativity and individuality of Texas to shine through every sip.

HAVE A DRINK WITH US

Our world-class distillery, located in the heart of Austin, is open every day for the public to have a drink, listen to live music, take a tour, or book your next group outing.

Seven Questions - DALLAS ARTIST DESIREÉ VANIECIA

Desireé Vaniecia is a contemporary artist, based in Dallas, who creates personal and thought-provoking pieces inspired by the complexities of the human experience. Her works combine vivid colors, dynamic compositions, and a mix of media to evoke emotions and encourage deeper reflection. With hints of Art Nouveau and Renaissance art, she explores the representation of Black women, seeking to celebrate their beauty, strength, and diversity while challenging traditional notions of femininity.

Still Austin's Whiskey Awards: A Tale of Triumph & Taste

The most influential whiskey awards contest in the world is the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Established in 1980 and run by a group called the Tasting Alliance— a “network of the world’s most trusted and respected spirits professionals”—the SF contest is the oldest and largest competition of its kind in the world, a yearly event where spirits are awarded after being tasted blind.

WHAT IS SINGLE BARREL BOURBON WHISKEY

When you look across the line of labels in the bourbon section of your favorite bottle shop, you’ll notice that most bottles of bourbon are simply labeled “bourbon.” You see, when making whiskey, most of the time distilleries choose to blend several barrels together to create a profile of flavors and aromas that the Master Blender–and hopefully the distillery’s customers–will find pleasing. Every barrel in a rickhouse (a term for the warehouses where whiskey barrels are kept) will have a different profile. In some cases, even barrels that were filled on the same day, with the same distillate, can have wildly different characteristics.

Seven Questions - SINGER-SONGWRITER REILLY DOWNES

Reilly Downes is the Sad Cowgirl of Chicago. An Americana artist hailing from the Texas Hill Country, she cut her teeth as a session musician in Nashville, singing behind some of Americana’s favorite singer/songwriters. Reilly’s music has been described as “easy on the ears but hard on the heart” by Nashville’s Music Mecca. Her songs diverge from typical contemporary country, draw on her Texas roots with a sound that “cuts across each track like a rattlesnake, adding some extra honesty and grit.” Reilly’s first solo album, Spent, earned her the spot of #1 Americana releases for 2022 as well as features on The Boot, among other Americana and Country covering media. Since then, her haunting rendition of “Wicked Game” has landed her radio play, a feature on Spotify’s “Vibes” playlist, and more.

Whiskey Distilling: Unveiling Still Austin's Craftsmanship

A distillery, put simply, is where alcoholic spirits are made. But you probably knew that. What you may not know (most people don’t!) is what distilling means. To “distill” means to purify a liquid by vaporizing it—then, afterward, to cool that vapor to collect the resulting liquid. In more simple terms, to distill means to convert a liquid into vapor, and then to turn that vapor back into a liquid. Not so complicated, right?

With a tent stake planted firmly in the underbelly of Austin's downtown life.

• Best in Austin
• Art Galleries
• Arcade Bars
• Boat Rentals
• Craft Breweries
• Dance Clubs
• Event Venues
• Lake Austin Boat Rentals
• Town Lake Boat Rentals
• Live Entertainment
• Movie Theatres
• Food Trucks
• Restaurants
• Bed & Breakfast
• Real Estate
• Vacation Rentals
• Clothing/Apparel
• Gifts/Accessories
• Grocery/Market
• Liquor Stores
• Audio/Video
• Salons & Barbershops
• Counseling/Therapy
• Marketing/Web/SEO
• Photography
• Talent Booking
• Transportation

Best Austin Distilleries

It’s hard to believe that as recently as 2005, there were only three licensed distilleries in the state of Texas. Now, there are dozens ranging from vodka to whiskey, rum to rare liqueurs that you may never have even heard of.

We’ve got a wealth of great Austin distilleries. In just a short drive, you can learn about the production process from grain to glass. Check out this list of some of the best distilleries in the area, and start planning your visits.

Garrison Brothers Distillery

Garrison Brothers Distillery in Hye, Texas is the furthest from downtown Austin, but it’s well worth the trip. As Texas’ first bourbon distillery, it has a pedigree that no one else in the state can match.

Schedule a tour to see the process, from “corn to cork.” Or just sample some of their award-winning bourbons, like the classic Small Batch or Balmorhea, aged for five years. Wander the grounds and take in the old-school Texas vibes. Live music and great events and plenty of outdoor space on a working Hill County farm/ranch.

Where: 1827 Hye-Albert Rd, Hye, TX 78635 Phone: (830) 392-0246 Web: Garrison Brothers Distillery

Related Links: Best Lake Austin Restaurants Best Austin Boat Tours

Desert Door Distillery

There are plenty of great distilleries in the area making vodka, gin, and whiskey. But only one local distillery makes sotol, a traditional spirit made from the wild sotol plant. Slightly reminiscent of tequila, this bright liquor is great on its own or added to cocktails like Palomas or margaritas.

Desert Door’s gorgeous southwestern tasting room in Driftwood is definitely worth visiting for their craft cocktails and laid back desert vibe.

Where: 211 Darden Hill Rd, Driftwood, TX 78619 Phone: (512) 829-6129

Related Listings: Austin Vacation Rentals Austin Events Calendar

Dripping Springs Distilling

Dripping Springs Distilling’s award-winning vodka is what first put them on the map back in 2007 and 2008. Made in 50-gallon copper pot stills, their small-batch vodka is fresh and neutral, great on its own or in cocktails.

Gin was next on the agenda, which was soon winning its own award categories. The vodka and gin are still made onsite in Dripping Springs. But the distillery has now acquired several small-batch liquor brands like 1876 Bourbon, Republic Whiskey, and Paula’s Liqueur. Stop by their tasting room for seasonal cocktails or tastes of their vodkas, gins, and bourbons.

Where: 5330 Bell Springs Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Phone: (512) 858-1199

Related Links: Best Austin Performing Arts Theatres Best Lake Austin Party Barges

Still Austin Whiskey Co.

Most local distilleries are on the outskirts of town among the wineries and breweries of Dripping Springs or Driftwood. But Still Austin Whiskey Co. is just south of downtown in the rapidly growing St. Elmo district. Still Austin started out with their “pre-aged” New Make whiskey and award-winning gin and has now started small batches of aged whiskey as well.

Visit their tasting room for cocktails made from infusions like strawberry & thyme or hibiscus-infused New Make Whiskey.

Where: 440 East St. Elmo Rd Phone: (512) 276-2700

Related Links: Best Austin Swimming Holes Best Austin Drive In Movie Theatres

Treaty Oak Distilling

Places like Treaty Oak are part of the appeal of popular Dripping Springs. Located on 27 acres of countryside, this distillery feels like a different world from downtown, even though it’s just a short drive away.

Treaty Oak is a great place to visit with a group that all has different tastes. In addition to whiskey and gin, they also have wine and beer available under their label. Try batch cocktails in the big open barn, or head inside to the tasting room for samples of the liquors on their own (and bask in the air conditioning.) Bring the kids and let them run around outside while you sample the goods. Enjoy some incredible BBQ and sides at the venue’s eatery, Alice’s Restaurant.

Where: 16604 Fitzhugh Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Phone: (512) 599-0335

Related Links: Best Austin Live Music Venues Best Austin Honky Tonks

Deep Eddy Vodka

Deep Eddy is the undisputed champ of local flavored vodkas. Their Sweet Tea, Ruby Red Grapefruit, Cranberry, and Lemon vodkas are staples on cocktail menus all over town. But those flavors aren’t intended to hide anything. Deep Eddy spirits are distilled 10 times and then filtered over charcoal 4 times for exceptional purity.

Visit the beautiful tasting room and dog-friendly patio for craft cocktails and live music Thursday through Sunday.

Where: 2250 E Hwy 290, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Phone: (512) 994-3534

Related Links: Best Austin Brunches Best Austin Tours

Iron Wolf Ranch and Distillery

Go to Iron Wolf Ranch and Distillery for the booze, but stay for the party. In addition to vodka, gin, and bourbon, they also make some creative spirits. Try their 100% molasses rum aged in Bourbon barrels for vanilla complexity. Or get a Bloody Mary with the Giddy’up horseradish infused vodka.

Iron Wolf has live music & food trucks on the weekend, plus a playground for the kids. There’s bocce, corn hole, and even a 9-hole disc golf course across 15 acres. You can spend the whole day here, playing games and soaking up the sun.

Where: 101 County Road 409, Spicewood, TX, 78669 Phone: (512) 970-3203

Related Links: Best Austin Hostels Best Caves Around Austin

Goodnight Loving Vodka

Goodnight Loving Vodka’s tasting room is a secret hidden inside an enigma. First, pull into a nondescript office park. Drive by the entrance two or three times, because the sign is that small. When you finally find it, you’ll enter a tiny office and be very confused. There’s no distillery here! But wait…the person behind the desk will open a magical sliding bookcase to reveal the cutest 1960s-style tasting room you’ll ever see.

Made with “Texas artesian spring water,” the vodka at Goodnight Loving is crazy smooth and perfect for cocktails. You’ll definitely want to buy a bottle to take home.

Where: 12440 Trail Driver #103 Phone: (512) 563-8485

Related Links: Best Places for Photos in Austin Best Lake Travis Lakeside Restaurants

Stinson Distilling

Run by a husband and wife team in Driftwood, TX, Stinson focuses on small-batch spirits and liqueurs. Their vodka, brandy, Carajillo, Mirabeau Elderflower liqueur, and Texas Holiday Nog have all won medals at the Denver International Spirits Competition.

Sample their options or get a cocktail in the wood-lined tasting room around the back of the building. Stay for a chat with the family about distilling and life out in Driftwood.

Where: 18281 Ranch to Market Road 150 #211, Driftwood, TX 78619 Phone: (512) 894-2009

Related Links: Best Museums in Austin Best Austin Area Farm Tours

Revolution Spirits

Revolution is probably best known for its Austin Reserve Gin, a contemporary-style gin with juniper, rosemary, lavender, and other botanicals. But they’ve also expanded into some wonderful spirits that are less common, like their Cafecito Coffee liqueur made with Cuvee coffee.

They also make Amico Amaro, a bitter Italian liqueur often consumed after meals as a digestif. This is the first amaro ever produced in Texas. Visit Revolution’s small tasting room in west Austin to get some to take home. Their sleek modern bottle design will look great on a bar cart.

Where: 12345 Pauls Valley Rd Phone: (512) 358-1203

Related Links: Austin’s Best Festivals Best of Barton Springs

Crowded Barrel Whiskey

Crowded Barrel is the world’s first “crowdsourced distillery.” Funded by subscriptions from their supporters, the owners experiment with different recipes to distill and age their own whiskeys. Visit their tasting room, the Fang and Feather, in southwest Austin to sample their offerings and cocktails.

If you want to get involved, you can become a member of their Patreon! For a small monthly fee, you’ll become part of the Whiskey Tribe, getting free samples at the tasting room, coupon codes, and voting rights on new whiskeys. Even if you never make it out to Crowded Barrel, check out the Whiskey Tribe Youtube channel. These guys are pretty funny.

Where: 16221 Crystal Hills Dr, Building D Phone: (512) 850-9622

Related Listings: Best Austin Craft Breweries Best Austin Kayak Rentals

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

Lost your password?

11 Must Visit Austin Area Distilleries

Looking to taste some local Whiskey, Gin, Vodka, Tequila and or Moonshine. Here are my top 11 must visit craft spirits distilleries in Austin and surrounding areas. Each of them are unique and offer tastings and tours. Check their websites for hours of operation. And remember if you come on a horse to Garrison Brothers you get free tastings!

Still Austin Whiskey Co.

440 E St Elmo Rd, Austin, TX 78745

At Still Austin Whiskey Co., they distill, barrel, and bottle bourbon and other whiskeys in their 100% grain-to-glass distillery. The spirits are made by hand in Austin from ingredients provided by Texas farmers. Happy Hour every Thursday & Friday 3-7pm. Distillery tours & tastings: they offer a 30 minute behind the scenes look. Learn a little history and sample a variety of whiskies.

Revolution Spirits

12345 Pauls Valley Rd, Austin, TX 78737

Revolution spirits is a small craft distillery located in the south west Austin. The distillery was launched in 2014 with Austin reserve gin and has since expanded the portfolio with both consistent and limited release products. The year-round lineup currently includes aAustin reserve gin, cafecito coffee liqueuer, chocolate cafecito, and amico amaro.

Dripping Springs Distilling 330 Bell Springs Road Dripping Springs, TX 78620

In 2018, San Luis Spirits acquired Empresario LLC to become Dripping Springs Distilling. Dripping Springs Distilling is home of award winning Dripping Springs Vodka and Gin, micro-distills in small batches in proprietary 50-gallon copper pot stills. Each product is finished with pure, mineral rich Hill Country Artesian Spring Water. They offer  30-45 minute tours for $15 which include tour, tasting and souvenir shot glass.

Treaty Oak Distilling

16604 Fitzhugh Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

28 acre property includes, a large fire pit, playground, corn holes, gift shop, restaurant with a full menu, craft cocktails, craft beer, tastings & tours, live music, events & more! Treaty Oak Distillery is named after the famous 500-year old tree in Austin, under which Stephen F. Austin signed agreements defining the borders of Texas. Our gins are called Waterloo, after the original name of Austin. In 2016, Daniel headed the expansion of Treaty Oak by moving to the 28-acre property in Dripping Springs, Texas, that is now open to the public for food and beverage service, as well live music, a ground breaking Cocktail Lab, and room for the ever expanding whiskey and gin production. Tour & Tasting – 45 minutes $15 walk through the production facility while your guide provides insight into how the beers and sprits are made. Plenty of science, hands-on explanation and a spirit tasting are included.

Frog Pond Distillery

261 Frog Pond Ln, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Family owned, small batch distillery that produces Gina and Vodka in pot stills. They offer tastings, cocktails, tours and bottle sales.

Deep Eddy Vodka

2250 E Hwy 290, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Their story, “Deep Eddy Vodka is inspired by the oldest swimming hole in Austin, Texas — a place where people come together to enjoy good times that never seem to end. Where strangers are just friends you haven’t met yet. Deep Eddy Vodka embodies that same spirit. We eat, sleep and yes, drink, for one purpose: To bring people together for good times. Whether it’s your backyard, the patio of your favorite bar, the biggest outdoor music festivals, or the most intimate concerts from up-and-coming musicians, Deep Eddy is there.” Tours are currently suspended while they are under renovations. The tasting room is open for cocktails, tastings, flights. No reservations required.

Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery

101 County Road 409 Spicewood, TX, 78669

The 15 acre property is dotted with huge oaks and elevated 360 degree views of the hill country. The spirits include: Bourbon, Gin, Rum, Vodka, Hotscotch (whiskey with butterscotch flavors, sweetness plus a blend of Texas peppers for backend heat), Iron Hot and Giddy’up (horseradish infused vodka). They offer tasting, cocktails and bottle for purchase. Tours coming soon. Live music & food trucks on the weekends. Kids playground.

Crystal Creek Distillery

906 Pace Bend Rd S, Spicewood, TX 78669

Crystal Creek Moonshine is made from Texas grown ingredients which creates a unique taste that is perfect for drinking on the rocks or in almost any combination of mixed drinks. Fun little spot to enjoy some moonshine cocktails, do a tasting and buy a bottle or two to go. Live music on weekends.

Garrison Brothers

1827 Hye-Albert Rd, Hye, TX 78635

Garrison Brothers is bold, proud, and authentic. It’s homegrown and handcrafted from the finest ingredients. “One thing is certain: Life is simply too short to waste on inferior whiskey.” Sip & Sit Tour – $10 per person , $20 on Saturdays, and free if you show up on a horse!

Real Ale Brewing Company

231 San Saba Ct, Blanco, TX 78606

In April 2017, after years of experimentation and fine-tuning, Real Spirits launched to the public from the Real Ale tap room with Texas Hill Country Signature Whiskey, Grain to Glass Gin, and the highly limited first batch of Single Barrel Whiskey. Enjoy artisan cocktails and flights of beer at the tap room while overlooking the brewery’s packaging hall & brewhouse. You can purchase bottles of spirits to go only in the taproom. Brewery visit to the tap room, open Wednesday through Sunday. Beers are available for purchase in the tap room during Tap Room hours and free tours happen on Friday and Saturday afternoons. Read the detailed article on Real Spirits here on our sister blog: Real Ale Brewing Launches Real Spirits Distilling.

Ben Milam Whiskey

2218 U.S. 281 N. Blanco, TX 78606

The distillery currently offers three products: Ben Milam Single Barrel Bourbon, Ben Milam Barrel Proof Bourbon (limited release) and the Ben Milam Small Batch Rye. Ben Milam Whiskey is distributed statewide in Texas and is available at fine liquor stores, bars and restaurants. Ben Milam Whiskey distillery is a great day-trip destination. Leave the bumper-to-bumper traffic and urban sprawl behind to relax in the picturesque small town, where the spring-fed Blanco River runs through the heart of the community and rolling hills are studded with live oak and pecan trees. Sample their spirits and cocktails in the tasting room. They hold regular tastings, feature live music with BBQ, and host special whiskey lab educational activities. Dog friendly.

Related Posts

Ben Milam Whiskey Has Partnered with World-Renowned Whiskey Expert and New York Times Shortlisted Whiskey Author Heather Greene

Ben Milam Introduces Milam & Greene Whiskey, the New Flagship Brand

Thirty-One Whiskey

Independent and impartial reviews of the best (and worst) spirits on the shelf.

Distillery Tour: Still Austin Whiskey Co.

Nothing completes a trip to Austin like drinking some Texas whiskey. And for years, trekking out to Hill Country was the only way to get some local spirits. But there’s actually a distiller within the city, and while they’re still kind of new, they absolutely make up for quantity with quality… and an incredibly fun facility.

Advertisment

The History

Locally owned and operated in Austin, Texas, the Still Austin Whiskey Co. first opened its doors in 2017.

And while distilleries in Texas are as thick as grackles in an HEB parking lot these days, this is the only one operating within the Austin city limits. They actually have the historical distinction of being the first distillery in the city limits of Austin, Texas since prohibition. Keeping it local, their plan was to try and use locally grown “heirloom” grains to make a craft spirit that would be unique to Austin.

Still Austin took a different approach to most distillers, in that they decided to offer only product that they themselves have distilled (not re-bottling someone else’s whiskey) and to keep the business afloat while their first batch aged, they would rely on infused “white lightning” unaged whiskey. Their plan worked, producing a number of delicious whiskey concoctions and the business finally produced its first 100% locally grown, distilled, aged, bottled, and distributed bourbon in 2019.

Things To Do At The Distillery

There’s not much in the local area where Still Austin calls home. Historically, the area was a warehouse district; and while there aren’t a whole lot of other bars in walking distance, there are some other businesses that have moved in to make the whole place much more inviting. It doesn’t make things much better that the area is a good 10 minute drive from downtown, which makes it mildly inconvenient for tourists staying downtown.

While the area might not be very exciting and is somewhat out of the way, the good news is that once you’re there, the facility is pretty self sufficient. Where most distilleries only have a small tasting room that they treat like a storefront, Still Austin runs a full service bar that serves cocktails in addition to whiskey flights. And for those warm Texas evenings, there’s an outdoor courtyard with market lighting and a food truck where you can play games and relax with a good drink.

The Distillation Process

Still Austin Whiskey Co. is a “grain to glass” distillery, meaning that the entire process of making whiskey takes place within their facility. They take it a step further by only using grains from the “local” area (within a 100 mile radius counts when you’re in a state as big as Texas).

Those grains are stored in the silos outside until they are needed, and Still Austin uses their own on-site grain mill to process the raw grains into a usable product. Most distilleries send their grains out to be processed elsewhere, but Still Austin prefers to control the size and consistency of their grains to improve the flavor of their spirits.

Once the grains are milled, they flow through a pipe above the entry way and into the cooker. Here the grains are added one at a time, coordinated to ensure that the different cooking time for each of the grains is accounted for and the whole mess is “done” at the same time.

Following the cooking process, the mash is flash cooled and transferred into one of six stainless steel fermentation tanks. These tanks, each named after a famous whiskey drinker, are custom designed by local university students to keep the whole thing at a constant 74-ish degrees while only wasting about a gallon of water per day. For a distillery located deep in the heart of Texas, that’s a remarkable accomplishment — especially given the scale of what they’re trying to cool.

After fermentation, the distiller’s beer is added into a beer vault and then placed into one of two stills to be turned into liquor.

The smaller of these stills is a pot still, designed after a Scottish still and used primarily for research and development as well as producing gin. The still takes high pressure steam piped into the jacket surrounding the copper pot, and then condenses it into delicious whiskey.

Just on the other side of a rather thick wall is Nancy — the 42 foot column still named after the 50 foot woman from the cheesy sci-fi movies. The still is clearly visible through some thick glass windows from the tasting room, and there’s even some sight glasses on the column still that are intended to let patrons watch the whiskey getting made but unfortunately, thanks to the overly cautious lawyers, they aren’t allowed to process whiskey while the tasting room is open.

What’s left after distillation is the grains, and those are returned to the farmers surrounding Austin, Texas. Some use them to feed their livestock, others till them into the soil to replenish the nutrients on their farm. Either way, every part of the product is used.

Similarly, the “heads” and “tails” of the whiskey (the parts that aren’t useful in whiskey drinking and potentially deadly) are sold as industrial solvents. Again, making use of every bit of the whiskey.

Once the whiskey is produced, one of two things happen.

For the unaged spirits, some of the whiskey is infused with things like hot peppers for their white lightning offerings. Others are added to new charred oak barrels like these pictured and then aged to perfection to make bourbon.

The barrels aren’t aged at the distillery — instead they are shipped out to a rickhouse in the country where the barrels are left to the Texas temperature swings. There’s huge differences in night and daytime temperatures, and that temperature shift makes the barrels expand and contract which transfers the flavor of the barrel into the whiskey more effectively.

Once the whiskey is properly aged (or not) it is returned to the distillery where a group of volunteers bottle (and sample, for quality control purposes) the whiskey for distribution.

Getting There

I really like this distillery and take every opportunity to head down and check it out. But as I mentioned, getting here isn’t exactly convenient for the average tourist.

For Austin, Sixth Street and South Congress are typically the big attractions in town, easily walkable and with plenty of scooters or other forms of transportation. Still Austin is even further south on Congress than Lucy’s Fried Chicken, just on the other side of Highway 71.

The best way to get there is through ride sharing apps like Lyft or Uber. There’s plenty of drivers around Austin — and bonus, no drinking and driving!

If you do decide to drive, be aware that there is significantly limited parking at the distillery. It’s often hard to find parking in the lot, and because of where the distillery is located there aren’t many other options within walking distance.

Despite the distillery being a little far from downtown and with limited parking, it’s still one of my favorite places in Austin.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Share this story

• Where to Find Succulent Crawfish in Austin
• The 6 Hottest New Brunches in Austin Right Now
• The Hottest New Restaurants in Austin, April 2024

15 Austin-Area Distilleries for Spirited Tastings

Texas whiskeys, vodkas, gins, rum, and sotol

• Share this on Facebook
• Share this on Twitter
• Share All sharing options

Share All sharing options for: 15 Austin-Area Distilleries for Spirited Tastings

Austin’s distillery boom shows no signs of abating. With over 20 active spirit brands in Central Texas, local drinkers are visiting distilleries in more frequent numbers, and destination tasting rooms are on the rise.

Below are Austin’s spirit brands with regular public hours for distilleries and tours — opening hours and days sometimes vary seasonally, so call before heading out for the latest information. As always, and especially with spirits, designating a driver is a must.

Important note: Many Austin-based brands such as Genius Liquids, Playa Real Tequila, Dulce Vida Spirits, Texacello (Paula’s Texas Orange), Tito’s, and Tequila 512 do not currently have public-facing tasting rooms. This map will be updated should this change.

For those looking to learn more, Eater took a deeper loo k at how Austin distilleries make use of local ingredients in spirit production. For more drinking, there are the Austin-area’s best breweries and Central Texas wineries . In Austin, there are the best cocktail bars and hot new ones .

Know of a missing Austin-area distillery below? Let Eater know through the tipline or within the comments.

Banner Distilling Co.

Spirits : Vodka, wheat whiskey

Since 2011, this Manor distillery has produced both a small-batch vodka made with Texas rainwater and a “mill-to-sill” wheat whiskey with an unconventional 95 percent wheat-slash-five percent barley mash bill. Both spirits have won gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Tours and tastings : Saturday and Sunday, $10 per person, advance appointment suggested

• Open in Google Maps

Treaty Oak Distilling Ranch

Spirits : Bourbon, gin After some brand streamlining over the past year, Treaty Oak ’s beloved Fitzhugh Road location now concentrates on whiskey and gin spirits, along with its own craft beer. The tasting room offers flights of spirits or local wine ($10), along with a selection of a half-dozen cocktails ($8 to $12). Onsite restaurant Alice’s is open Thursday through Sunday with barbecue from pitmaster Scott Fogle (formerly of Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ) along with salads, sandwiches, and snacks. Tours and tastings : Tasting room is open daily; tours are offered on Saturday at $15 per person

Revolution Spirits Distilling Co.

Spirits : Gin, amaro Part of the Fitzhugh Road drinks trail, Revolution is well worth a stop for its high-quality gin and its “cafecito” coffee liqueur made with Cuvee Coffee. Over a dozen cocktails ($3 to $8) and slushies ($12) are available from the bar. You’ll also find the occasional tasting room special of fruit liqueur flights done in partnership with neighbor Jester King Brewery. Tours and tastings : Friday through Sunday; tours are available by request

Still Austin Whiskey Co.

Spirits : Whiskey, gin After a long wait, Still Austin now has bourbon whiskey available, and the young upstart also pours other three whiskeys and a Texas rye gin. There are cocktails available ($10), and the beautiful facility has a large, sociable porch with lawn games. The distillery’s convenient location in the St. Elmo area is an easy trip, and both food trailer Soursop and coffee shop Spokesman are in the complex for post-visit snacks. Tours and tastings : Thursday through Sunday, $15 to $40 per person

Also featured in:

Where to Find Austin’s Greatest Sandwiches

Garrison Brothers Distillery

Spirits : Whiskey Book ahead for a “sit-and-sip” tour here in the quiet town of Hye. Tours are scheduled online ($10 per guest) and include a tour and tasting. Since opening the first legal Texas whiskey distillery in 2010, Garrison Brothers have won numerous awards. It remains focused solely on bourbon-style whiskey, with limited releases like Balmorhea (twice-barreled bourbon) and Estacado (port-finished bourbon) in high demand. Tours and tastings : Wednesday through Sunday, by appointment only at $10 per person

Where to Drink and Eat in Hye, Texas

San Luis Spirits

Spirits : Vodka, gin, bourbon The scoop : One of Austin’s stalwart distillers, San Luis Spirits produces both Dripping Springs Vodka and Gin, as well as 1876 Vodka. The distillery offer ten tours per week, which includes a tasting and a shot glass, or regular tasting flights for $8. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, there are also cocktails utilizing its spirits. Tours and tastings : Tasting room and tours Monday through Saturday; book in advance for tours at $16 per person

Sign up for the newsletter Eater Austin

Sign up for our newsletter.

Thanks for signing up!

Check your inbox for a welcome email.

Oops. Something went wrong. Please enter a valid email and try again.

Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery

Spirits : Vodka Austin’s runaway hit spirit brand (owned by Kentucky whiskey giant Heaven Hill) pours four-flavor flights ($10) and fifteen craft cocktails ($7-$9) of its regular and flavored vodkas within a modern tasting room near Dripping Springs that expanded in spring 2019. Food trucks like Garbo’s are often onsite on weekends. Food bonus: on the way, those coming from Austin drive past Neapolitan pizza and pastrami spot Pieous and barbecue and Cajun restaurant the Switch , making for an excellent weekend doubleheader. Tours and tastings : Thursday through Sunday

Frog Pond Distillery

Spirits : Gin, vodka The scoop: A newer distillery in the Dripping Springs area, Frog Pond is a casual spot serving up cocktails (for just $5) made with its pot still-produced gin and vodka. Vodka tonics, gin fizzes, and mules are usually available, along with rotating specials. Neat spirits samples are offered free of charge. Tours and tastings : Saturday and Sunday, 1 to 7 p.m.

Desert Door Distillery

Spirits : Sotol The scoop: Desert Door has a welcoming tasting room with indoor and outdoor seating, lawn games, and a rotating menu of craft cocktails priced at $9 to $11. Neat copitas are available for $7. This is only four miles from Salt Lick , making for a great combination weekend road trip with friends. Tours and tastings : Thursday through Sunday; tours available on Friday and Saturday at noon and 1 p.m., bookable in advance online

Kooper Family Whiskey Co.

Spirits : Whiskey Troy and Michelle Kooper produce three different whiskeys: a blended rye, a cask strength rye, and a small batch bourbon. The tasting room offers a flight of all three, and the band has attracted a strong cult following across Texas. 

Tours and tastings : Friday and Saturday, 2 to 7 p.m.; tastings from Tuesday through Thursday are available by advance appointment

Crowded Barrel Whiskey Co

Spirits : Whiskey The producers of the popular Whiskey Vault YouTube channel are behind this new spot near Salt Lick . Crowded Barrel produces some unconventional products: the Alliance series offers unusual barrels from out-of-state distillers, while the flagship Eleanor is cask strength MGP Indiana bourbon with a 75 percent corn mash bill. Tours and tastings : Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

Stinson Distilling

Spirits : Vodka, rum, brandy Also located near both Salt Lick and Desert Door , Driftwood’s Stinson Distilling makes small batches of a wide array of spirits and liqueurs.

Tours and tastings : Wednesday through Sunday; selected tastings are free of charge; group visits are encouraged (parties of six or more should call ahead)

Real Ale Brewing Company

Spirits : Gin, whiskey After two decades in the beer business , Real Ale began working on a whiskey and gin program which launched in 2017. The distillery currently produces one gin and two whiskeys priced from $50 to $65 that are only sold at the taproom. (Cocktails are also available.)  It’s a fun Hill Country stop for those passing through Blanco, since you can also sample the excellent beers. Tours and tastings : Wednesday through Sunday; to-go sales aren’t available on Sundays

Violet Crown

Spirits : Absinthe, cordials, liqueurs

This unconventional distillery is producing esoteric spirits in Bastrop — try the collaboration with downtown bar Midnight Cowboy , the Midnight Marigold, a bitter cordial, or accent a cocktail with the 140-proof Emerald Absinthe. There’s also a jasmine liqueur.

Tours and tastings : By request, call for details

Ben Milam Whiskey Distillery

Spirits : Whiskey

Ben Milam started by aging Tennessee and Kentucky whiskey, and has recently expanded with its Milam & Greene line, a triple-cask bourbon made from Hill Country and Tennessee spirits, and a port barrel-finished rye. 

Tours and tastings : Friday and Saturday; flights available for $10.50 to $17.50 per person

More in Maps

Related maps, follow eater austin online:.

• Follow Eater Austin on Twitter
• Follow Eater Austin on Facebook
• Follow Eater Austin on Youtube
• Follow Eater Austin on Instagram

Site search

• Los Angeles
• New Orleans
• Philadelphia
• Portland, OR
• San Francisco
• Twin Cities
• Washington DC
• Neighborhoods

Taste & Tour: Texas Hill Country Distillery Tours

Quick Details

• Tags Ages: Ages 21+
• Hour Glass Duration: 6 Hours

Join us for a Ride from Austin, Texas to our Distillery Tours

Start the day by having a private ride pick you up from the location of your choice where you can BYOB to get the party started the second you’re on board.

Your first stop will be a can’t miss destination: Treaty Oak Distillery . On this breathtaking 28 acre historic ranch, Treaty Oak offers a wide variety of drinks. Gin, whiskey, wine, beer, cider, food, you name it…Treaty Oak has it. You will also have the option to book a reservation at their on-site eatery “Alice’s Restaurant” for a sit down meal to go with your drinks.

After that, your ride takes you to Dripping Springs Distillery, where your taste bud’s desires, whatever they are, can be met. Whether it’s true Texas bourbon, botanical gin, or micro-distilled vodka, Dripping Springs Distillery is sure to please.

Your last stop will be Desert Door Distilling . Made by hand from wild-harvested West Texas sotol plants, Desert Door Original Texas Sotol is a premium spirit that tastes unquestionably of the land. Enjoy the only sotol distillery in the U.S. by trying a taste of multiple variations while a trained staff member educates you on the unique process, or just sit and sip a signature cocktail.

You will then be on your way back to your pick up location and everyone will have pictures (and buzz) to prove that you fully Tasted and Toured the Texas Hill Country. Book your Texas distillery tours online!

• Round trip transportation from a location of your choice to distilleries. (Note: Pick ups outside of the greater Austin downtown are are subject to a surcharge)
• BYOB on the bus welcome
• Trained ATC guide to provide you with unique information about each location (and take all the photos you want)
• Complimentary gift for the guest of honor from some locations (valid with 10 or more guests)
• Departure times are at 11:30am Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• Tastings or flights are NOT included on this tour.
• Please note: Dessert Door is NOT part of the tour on Thursdays
• Total tour time 5-6 hours
• The formal “tour” options at Treaty Oak require a separate fee and a reservation that we are happy to book for you in advance
• Alice’s Restaurant reservations will extend the duration of the trip and incur a surcharge

Related Activities

• Nov. 3rd - 12th
• Hour Glass 7 Hours
• Tags All Ages

Wheels to Wurstfest

Why risk the hour drive from Austin to New Braunfels when you can take our Wheels to Wurstfest? Voted the number two Oktoberfest in the country by USA Today! With sausage, beer, polka and potato pancakes as far as the eye can see, it’s a Bavarian wonderland that’s not to be missed.

• Available from March 2024
• Hour Glass 6 Hours
• Tags Ages 18+

Public River Floats in Texas

There’s no better way to beat the Texas heat than partaking in an Austin tradition, floating the river. Spend the day making your way through a natural lazy river on a tube while enjoying beverages of your choice and the beautiful atmosphere of the San Marcos river.

Still Austin Whiskey Co

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Still Austin Whiskey Co - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Are You of Proper Drinking Age?

When were you born?

You must be of legal drinking age to enter.

• Cart Your bag -

Rye Whiskey Now Available. Bourbon Coming 2024.

WHISKEY MADE WITH LARGE EXPECTATIONS

“austin is an inconsiderable village with large expectations…full of discharged ‘rangers’… costumes of every variety. … fierce whiskers , gaming, and drinking very abounding in all quarters.”

19th U.S. President, Rutherford B. Hayes, 1849

A true austin whiskey is born.

TRADITIONAL CRAFT WITH A MODERN APPROACH

GREATNESS THROUGH STUBBORNNESS.

our whiskeys

@fiercewhiskers

follow us on social

Swing By For a Tour

Sign up for updates.

There are errors with your cart:

Shipping + taxes calculated at checkout

Your cart is empty.

Online Store

• Latest News
• Whisky Weekend
• Instant Expert
• The Magazine
• M. Shanken Communications
• Join the Whisky Advocate Retailer Club
• Newsletters
• Advertise With Us

Still Austin Whiskey Co. embodies the city's artisan spirits community.

The Whisky Lover's Austin Travel Guide

August 7, 2018 –––––– Shannon McGarvey , , , ,

Over the past decade, Austin, Texas has transformed from sleepy slackerville to one of the fastest-growing cities in North America. With the help of some big-name tech companies and the increasing popularity of the annual South by Southwest festival held each March, Austin has blossomed into a bustling metropolis of nearly one million. Although some stalwarts still cling to the city's self-appointed moniker of “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin has taken on new bragging rights, namely for its impressive (and seemingly ubiquitous) craft spirits scene, with whiskey at the forefront.

Everything's bigger in Texas, except public transportation, so you'll need to rent a vehicle or rely on ridesharing apps to get around. Although lodging options are virtually endless, a stay at the mid-century modern Hotel Van Zandt will provide a great central jumping-off point. Once you've dropped your bags, you're free to explore the city's many boozy treasures.No place better embodies Austin's artisan spirits community than Still Austin Whiskey Co. , the city's first distillery in nearly a century. The young distillery is located in The Yard , home to an array of small businesses that manufacture their goods and sell them on-site. Before heading to Still, pick up a coffee at Spokesman and ask the barista about their roasting process.Now that you're caffeinated, walk toward Still for a tour of one of the largest grain-to-glass operations in Texas. Currently the distillery offers new make spirits, but that's just while their barrels—some containing whiskey made from heirloom strains of grain—age. After the tour, order a refreshing hibiscus-infused Whiskey Mule in Still's sleek tasting room. For lunch, pop into neighboring St. Elmo Brewing Company for a light Helles-style lager and a roti taco with shrimp chips and queso from the much-acclaimed Pan-Asian food truck Soursop .While your first tastes of Austin are still fresh in your mind (and on your breath, hello, shrimp chips!), take a quick trip to The Austin Shaker . This local craft liquor store is stocked with appealing collections of local whiskeys, as well as traditional single malts, Japanese offerings, and hard-to-find niche accompaniments.Afterward, venture downtown to Easy Tiger , a bakery and Munich-style beer garden along Waller Creek. The Texas Hill Country dish will give you a good cross-section of local and house-made offerings, especially when paired with a whiskey (served over ice) from Garrison Brothers in nearby Hye. It may be tempting to indulge in items from the beautiful open floor-plan bakery upstairs, but you'll want to save room for dinner.

Speaking of which, stroll west from Easy Tiger along Sixth Street toward the Warehouse District, stopping for a moment at the intersection with Brazos Street to take in the landmark architecture of The Driskill Hotel . Cut over to Seventh Street, continuing west toward Congress Avenue, and absorb artist Jim Hodges' permanent installation With Liberty and Justice for All (A Work in Progress) on public display atop The Contemporary Austin art museum. Follow the busy tree-lined avenue south to Fourth Street, where you'll find Péché , Austin's first absinthe bar, hidden among the limestone buildings.Chef John Lichtenberger is a master of French cuisine—especially comfort food—and has crafted a decadent menu replete with fresh takes on a slew of culinary classics, as well as a superior selection of whisky and absinthe cocktails. Start with an off-the-menu bourbon drink called Tied For Third and pair it with the perfectly acidic steak tartare appetizer. As entrees go, it doesn't get much better than the braised short ribs, a perfect flavor complement to the foamy, lightly sweet signature Fig Manhattan.For a nightcap, return to the Hotel Van Zandt's American fusion cocktail bar, Geraldine's . Try the Green Point, made with local Kooper Family Rye, before calling it a day.

Grab a quick coffee at Houndstooth Coffee's Congress Avenue location en route to an energizing swim at Barton Springs Pool , a three-acre spring-fed outdoor pool in downtown Austin. After brunch, take the 30-minute trek west to Treaty Oak Distilling , a 30-acre operation that produces bourbon, vodka, gin, rum, and beer. Between the sprawling Treaty Oak ranch and neighboring independent crafters, you could spend an entire day exploring the area. To hit the high points, start with a distillery tour and tasting at Treaty Oak, then head down the road to the farmhouse-chic Jester King Brewery for a seasonal flight from its elaborate tasting room menu.(Lunch) time is now of the essence, so hightail it back to Austin and over to Freedmen's for barbecue and an assortment of more than 160 whiskies. This saloon-style bar sits inside the historic Franzetti Store building, built in 1869 and once inhabited by Rev. Jacob Fontaine, a former slave who founded one of America's first black newspapers. Order the mammoth barbecue sammy and pair it with a build-your-own flight of three whiskies or a cocktail featuring Freedmen's whiskey of the month.While you're centrally located, check out happy hour at Drink Well , a neighborhood craft cocktail bar and gastropub in the North Loop area. The ambient exposed brick and wood interior creates the perfect atmosphere to explore the nearly 75 whiskies and an inventive, ever-changing drinks menu.For dinner, treat yourself to a reservation at the fine southern dining restaurant Olamaie , whose prim antebellum exterior, dimly lit parlor room bar, and butler-like service call to a simpler, slower time. Keep an eye on the daily punch offerings, specifically the Bottled in Bond Bourbon Pecan Milk, that tastes like melted ice cream.

Speaking of which, save room for Prohibition Creamery , a boozy ice cream parlor and cocktail bar in the heart of Austin's thriving Eastside. The imaginative Deconstructed Old-Fashioned sundae is unlike anything you've ever tasted, as is the substantial Triple Bourbon milkshake; both include house-made bourbon ice cream and bourbon whipped cream.At this point, you'll likely need a digestif and some exercise, so take a brisk 20-minute walk to The Blackheart whisky bar, a restored private residence built in 1889, offering live music and more than 150 whiskies, including rarities and local gems. Opportunities for cocktail detours abound along the way—like the rye whiskey-forward Whisler's .Feeling primed for a late night, you can head to The White Horse , a honky tonk where cowboy hats abound and the whiskey on tap flows freely until 2 a.m. With live music and free Saturday night dance lessons, it's the ideal place to work on your Texas Two Step before you scoot your boots on home.

Distilleries & Breweries

Garrison Brothers 1827 Hye-Albert Rd., Hye Jester King Brewery 13005 Fitzhugh Rd. Dripping Springs St. Elmo Brewing Co 440 East Saint Elmo Rd., Suite G-2 Still Austin Whiskey Co 440 East St. Elmo Rd Treaty Oak Distilling 16604 Fitzhugh Rd., Dripping Springs

Bars & Restaurants

The Blackheart 86 Rainey St Drink Well 207 East 53rd St Easy Tiger 709 East Sixth St Freedmen's 2402 San Gabriel St Geraldine's, Hotel Van Zandt 605 Davis St Houndstooth Coffee 401 Congress Ave., Ste. 100C Olamaie 1610 San Antonio St Péché 208 West Fourth St Prohibition Creamery 1407 East Seventh St Soursop 440 East St. Elmo Rd., Suite G-2 Spokesman Coffee 440 East St. Elmo Rd., Suite A-2 Whisler's 1816 East Sixth St White Horse 500 Comal St

Hotel Van Zandt 605 Davis St

Sightseeing and Shopping

The Austin Shaker 1199 Airport Blvd Barton Springs Pool 2131 William Barton Dr The Contemporary Austin 700 Congress Ave The Driskill Hotel 604 Brazos St The Yard 440 East St. Elmo Rd

Image Credit:

Make This Bourbon and Meyer Lemon Flip Tart

Make An Apple Drop Irish Whiskey Cocktail This St. Patrick's Day

Make This Old Fashioned With An Irish Twist

• 1845 Distilling Co.
• Acre Distilling Co.
• Balcones Distilling
• BENDT Distilling Co.
• Five Points Distilling (Lone Elm)
• Ironroot Republic
• Oak & Eden
• Tahwahkaro Distilling
• The Distillery at Kiepersol
• Chapline Distillery
• Devils River Whiskey
• K. Spoetzl Distillery
• Maverick Whiskey Company
• Ranger Creek Brewing and Distilling
• Rebecca Creek
• Andalusia Whiskey Company
• Crowded Barrel Whiskey Company
• Fierce Whiskers
• Garrison Brothers Distillery
• Johnny Pickles Distillery
• Milam & Greene Whiskey
• Modisett & Sons
• Real Spirits
• Spirit of Texas Distillery & Brewery
• Still Austin Whiskey Company
• Treaty Oak Distilling
• Wilson Valley Mercantile
• Giant Texas Distillers
• Shire Distilling Co.
• William Price
• Yellow Rose Distilling
• Main Streat Food Hall- Mueller
• True Texas BBQ – Georgetown
• True Texas BBQ – Lake Austin
• True Texas BBQ – Lubbock
• True Texas BBQ – Stone Oak
• Trailblazer

COME AND TASTE IT!

The Texas Whiskey Trail takes you on a journey of authentic achievement. Our member distilleries craft their Certified Texas Whiskeys with true Texas pride. They start with grain, then they mash, ferment, distill, mature and bottle — all within the State of Texas.

Our Member Distilleries

Los casinos online en pesos chilenos son una opción cada vez más popular entre los jugadores chilenos. La moneda local, el peso chileno, ofrece una serie de beneficios para los jugadores que buscan disfrutar de juegos de casino en línea. Jugar en casinos en línea que aceptan pesos chilenos brinda a los jugadores la comodidad de realizar sus transacciones en su moneda local, lo que evita la necesidad de convertir su dinero a otras divisas y pagar comisiones adicionales. Además, esto permite un mejor control sobre el presupuesto de juego y evita confusiones con las tasas de cambio. Los casinos online en pesos chilenos ofrecen una amplia variedad de juegos para satisfacer los gustos y preferencias de todos los jugadores. Desde tragamonedas clásicas hasta mesas de ruleta y blackjack en vivo, los jugadores chilenos pueden disfrutar de una experiencia de juego emocionante y de alta calidad desde la comodidad de sus hogares. Además de la conveniencia de jugar con pesos chilenos, estos casinos también ofrecen una amplia gama de bonificaciones y promociones para atraer a nuevos jugadores y recompensar la lealtad de los jugadores existentes. Desde bonos de bienvenida hasta programas de fidelidad, los jugadores pueden aprovechar estas ofertas para aumentar sus posibilidades de ganar y prolongar su tiempo de juego. Los casinos online en pesos chilenos también se preocupan por la seguridad y protección de sus jugadores. Utilizan tecnología de encriptación avanzada para garantizar la privacidad y confidencialidad de la información personal y financiera de los jugadores. Además, estos casinos están regulados por autoridades de juego confiables y certificados por organismos independientes, lo que garantiza un juego justo y transparente. En resumen, los casinos online en pesos chilenos brindan a los jugadores chilenos la oportunidad de disfrutar de una experiencia de juego emocionante y segura. Ya sea que prefieras las tragamonedas, la ruleta o el blackjack, estos casinos ofrecen una amplia variedad de juegos y promociones para satisfacer todas tus necesidades de juego. ¡No pierdas más tiempo y únete a la diversión en los casinos online en pesos chilenos ahora mismo!

Austin Distillery Tours

Explore austin distilleries in the texas hill country without the worry of finding an uber back, even if you are staying downtown..

Searching Availability...

• Discover award-winning local spirits at Austin’s best distilleries, complete with personalized recommendations.

Learn about how spirits are made

Snap Instagram worthy views of the Texas Hill Country

Get outside the city and explore the diversity of the Austin area on our bus tour.

•  Price $135/pp
• Meeting place: MACC 600 River ST 78701
• Availability: Fri, Sat, Sun 11:30am-4pm (Inquire about other days and/or times)
• Duration: 4.5 hours
• Group size: 14 max
• Included: 1 cocktail or tasting flight, knowledgeable and passionate host
• Not included : extra drinks, food, merch and swag, TIPS for your guide

Buses have limited seating. Our most popular tours regularly sell out, so we highly recommend you BOOK TODAY .  (This is the best way to get your preferred time slot and avoid being disappointed at a later date).

Have more questions?

We want to make sure to answer all of your questions so you’ll be happy. If you’re happy, we’re happy. 

• Tour and Tasting Package

Ready to visit heavenly Hye, Texas and experience everything Garrison Brothers has to offer? Our new tour & tasting package gives you the opportunity to reserve your distillery tour and Hye Reserve tasting together, saving you time and money along the way. On the full distillery tour, you’ll hear the history behind Garrison Brothers and learn how the best bourbon on the planet is made from grain to glass. After the tour, join us at the private Hye Reserve Bar for a tasting of some Garrison Brothers’ most coveted expressions – including our Laguna Madre, Guadalupe, Balmorhea, and Cowboy Bourbons. 

THE FINE PRINT

Full tour & tasting experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes; 90 minutes for the Distillery Tour, a 15 minute break, and 45 minutes for the Hye Reserve Tasting. We are an outdoor facility and spend most of the time on our tours and tastings enjoying the weather, so please plan accordingly. Tours and tastings take place rain or shine. 

Thursdays – $55 Fridays – $55 Saturdays – $65 Packages are available on Thursdays at 12:00 PM, Friday and Saturdays at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

Reserve your Tour and Tasting Package below.

Garrison brothers distillery, are you 21 or older.

By entering you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions

• Small Batch
• Single Barrel
• Cowboy Bourbon
• Laguna Madre
• Hye Fashioned Takeover
• Cocktails & Bites
• Whiskey Shack
• Hye Reserve Tasting
• Bourbon Bungalows
• When To Visit
• Things To Know
• Bourbon Blog

The Happiness Function US

I’m From Texas, Here Are the Distilleries Locals Love in Central Texas

Posted: March 21, 2024 | Last updated: March 21, 2024

Whether you are a whiskey connoisseur, a lover of vodka, or someone who appreciates molasses-rich rum, Austin and the surrounding towns in Central Texas have a distillery waiting for you to sip and savor heady spirits.

Join me on a tour of 11 recognizable distilleries and learn their history, processes, and the wonderful products they each offer.

1. Desert Door Distillery

Address: 211 Darden Hill Rd, Driftwood, TX 78619

Located 20 minutes outside of Austin, TX, in Driftwood sits one of the most charming, West Texas-inspired distilleries to hit the hill country .

Desert Door produces the unique spirit Sotol, similar to mezcal but lighter with a slightly smokey flavor. Derived from the sotol plant that grows mainly in west Texas and Northern Mexico, the plant hearts are harvested and brought to the distillery to be steamed, converting the stored energy into sugar.

Their tasting room is great for unwinding and sharing a delicious cocktail with friends while listening to live music most Friday-Sunday evenings.

They also host multiple events throughout the year, and you can rent out their space for private parties. Having hosted a surprise 40th birthday party here, I can attest to their excellent customer service and the fantastic cocktails served in their charming tasting room. 

2. Dripping Springs Vodka

Address: 5330 Bell Springs Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

If you live in Austin, you know Dripping Springs is just a short 30-minute drive from downtown and lately has become home to multiple distilleries and breweries that should be checked out, including Dripping Springs Vodka .

This award-winning spirit is deliberately made in small 50-gallon batches in distinctively designed copper stills, resulting in its smooth, lush flavor. Enjoy a well-rounded experience with a full menu selection of excellent food, delicious hand-crafted cocktails, tours of their production facility, live music entertainment, and a friendly (or not-so-friendly game) of washers on their lawn.

In addition to their original product, they also offer a variety of flavored Vodkas that you can purchase at multiple locations throughout Austin, so pick up a bottle today and whip up a crisp Moscow mule.

3. Revolution Spirits

Address: 12345 Pauls Valley Rd Bldg H, Austin, TX 78737

Who doesn’t like to make the occasional negroni or martini at home? If you’re a gin drinker, you’ll want to pick up a bottle of Revolution Spirit gin after visiting their distillery during their complimentary tour and tasting on Saturdays.

Established in 2013 in southwest Austin, Revolution specializes in creating unique spirits in a traditional and non-traditional process that doesn’t detract from the quality of their product.

Their flagship product encompasses the essence of juniper, rosemary, lavender, lemongrass, pink peppercorn, and Texas grapefruit that will delight tastebuds and impress dinner guests, complimenting your craft cocktail-making skills. 

4. Texas Sake Company

Address: 440 E St Elmo Rd Ste B-2, Austin, TX 78745

Started in 2011, Texas Sake Company is a genuine Texas original. Located in south Austin, this novel taproom offers flights and bottles of sake while their knowledgeable staff educates their guests about the ins and outs of the ancient process and traditions of sake-making.

This distillery produces a fragrant and bold glass of Japanese spirit. They use the highest quality Calrose rice that is polished to 70%, home-grown koji, classic saké yeast #9, and filtered Austin water.

Hosting events such as sushi-making classes to coincide with your tasting experience, visitors won’t leave disappointed. Kanpai Y’all!

5. Crowded Barrel Whiskey Co

Address: 16221 Crystal Hills Dr Bldg D, Austin, TX 78737

Crowded Barrel Whisky Co takes their distilling process very seriously, albeit humorously, by incorporating feedback from their fellow whiskey lovers “in all aspects of the whiskey creation from grain to glass.” Rex Williams and Daniel Whittington welcome whiskey “nerds” to their “Whisky Tribe.”

Their gothic-style tasting room, Fang and Feather, incorporates 2,000 square feet of outside deck space, allowing guests to enjoy their afternoon of whiskey wizardry while sipping on their aged cocktails. If you’re looking for a fantasy-inspired venue for a private event to rent, this might be the place for you.

6. Genius Gin

Address: 704 Highway 71 W Suite D-300, Bastrop, TX 78602

When people think of gin, they often relate it to “tasting like Christmas,” thanks to the hints of juniper, which can result in the shunning of the spirit. So the people at Genius Gin set out to prove that “gin can be subtle, rich, fresh with citrus, spicy, floral or just simply…delicious.”

Manufacturing four distinctive and aged-to-perfection distilled products, Genius guarantees that your next martini or gimlet will satisfy any gin lover’s palate. Boasting a flavor wheel that is more floral and spice rather than herbal and heat, this Bastrop-based distillery has proven it creates an excellent product for any gin drinker to sip and savor, whether it be in a cocktail or served neat.

Although they don’t currently host a tasting room at their distillery, you can purchase a bottle in various businesses across the Lone Star state.

7. Nine Banded Whiskey

Address: 13377 Fitzhugh Rd, Austin, TX 78736

Designated as the state animal of Texas in 1927, the nine-banded armadillo has been a fixture in TX culture for a long time; however, the founders of this Hill Country distillery decided to pay tribute to the old Armadillo World Headquarters, where creatives often congregated to make good music and enjoy even better company with their name selection.

The official American bourbon partner of the Los Angeles Rams since 2019 and Double Gold winner of the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for their Cask Strength Wheated Straight Bourbon, whiskey lovers can enjoy this malted beverage on ice or in a refreshing, balanced cocktail.

I love the simple mixed drink of Nine Banded whiskey, ginger beer, and a twist of lime. As supporters of the Austin art scene and other local events, you can enjoy a tasting when out and about (check out their events calendar) or pick up a bottle at different shops around town.

8. Violet Crown Spirits

Address: 704 Hwy 71 West, STE B300, Bastrop, TX 78602

The only Texas-based producer of Absinthe, Violet Crown was conceived by a trio of best friends in 2015 when they collectively decided they wanted to bring the charm of old-world spirits to modern-day society.

Having now produced award-winning craft spirits, co-founders Matthew Manusco and Chris McLaughlin were still in graduate school when they began experimenting with absinthe recipes dating as far back as the 1600s to create a unique blend — “Emerald Absinthe.”

In 2013, the line was expanded to include other spirits that are brimming with a wide range of floral notes. The Jasmine and Elderflower liqueur and Marigold cordial can also be savored in their tasting room on Saturdays or by appointment.

You can also partake in tasting their different liqueurs at various bars and restaurants around the state.

9. Still Austin Whiskey Co

Address: 440 E St Elmo Rd Suite F, Austin, TX 78745

Creating a variety of deliciously aromatic spirits such as straight bourbon, straight rye, cask strength rye whiskey, and cask strength straight bourbon,  Still Austin Whiskey Co  has something for every lover of this malted beverage.

Described as “a whiskey lovers paradise in the middle of Austin,” guests can enjoy hand-crafted, grain-to-glass spirit at any of their tasting room events. Guests can also take a private tour and tasting or pick up a bottle of their preferred choice to bring home to enjoy with friends and family.

They source all of the grains they use (corn, rye, barley) from Texas and use a reduction process by slowly adding water to the barrel while the whiskey is still aging, developing their distinct award-winning product.

Hosting a plethora of artistic events, from live music to “still life” art creation by various local artists, this home-grown distillery offers something for everyone. 

10. Island Getaway Rum

Address: 231 Frog Pond Lane, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

This wouldn’t be a comprehensive list of distilleries if I failed to include a rum distiller, and how lucky is it that there is one in Dripping Springs? Formerly known as Hye Rum,  Island Getaway Rum  was founded in 2016 by Stephanie Houston and James Davidson.

After several years of studying and experimenting with rum processing, master distiller Davidson partnered with Houston, and together, they used their savings to rent a farmhouse in the small town of Hye, Texas, to set up production.

When talking about what makes their brand so special, Houston shared, “The distinctive flavors and aromas are derived from the unique combination of Louisiana sourced molasses, fermented with a secret blend of yeasts, and double distilled in a copper still, capturing the rich, bold flavors Island Getaway Rum is known for today.”

Although their tasting room is closed to the public as they move to full-time production of their five different varieties of Dark, White, Coconut, Orange, and Pineapple, lovers of this vibrant, Caribbean-inspired spirit can pick up a bottle at a nearby liquor store and impress their guests at their own tiki party. 

11. Planet Rock Vodka Distillery

Address: 5401 Hudson Bend Rd. Austin, TX 78734

If you’re looking for a fun spot to hang with friends, enjoy good libations, play cornhole, and eat tasty vittles, look no further than Planet Rock Distillery .

Located on the edge of Lake Travis, outside of Austin, Texas, this one-of-a-kind Vodka distillery has a little something for the whole gang. Their smooth, clean spirit is “out of this world” and is best enjoyed straight from the source.

In addition to serving their flavorful cocktails, Planet Rock entertains their guests regularly with live music events, so check out their online calendar.

They are currently closed temporarily for renovation improvements but will reopen shortly to the public. While their establishment is closed, you can pick up a bottle of their locally sourced spirit and make yourself a refreshing cocktail at home.

More Articles From The Happiness Function:

• Taco Rivalry: 12 Best Taco Spots in Austin and San Antonio, Texas
• Top 10 Hill Country Wineries to Experience the “Tuscany” of Texas

More for You

Gavin Newsom's Restaurant Offers $16 Hourly Wage To Employee

Standing under a doorway during an earthquake is a common mistake. Here's what to do instead.

15 “As Seen On TV” Products That Are Well Worth The Money

The 9 Best Canned Foods You Should Be Eating for Weight Loss, According to Dietitians

15 Mistakes People Make When Living Alone That Put Their Safety in Danger

8 Places You Should Never Charge Your Phone

US Reacts After China Renames Neighbor's Territory

WWII bunkers, ammo unearthed during nature restoration project

How To Identify And Get Rid Of Dangerous Brown Recluse Spiders

The 10 Healthiest Types of Alcohol to Drink, According to a Registered Dietitian

How Long Does Rice Last in the Fridge?

10 Vital Home Maintenance Tasks You’ll Regret If You Forget

Denied Olympic tryout, field hockey star Erin Matson calls for ‘change’

Jersey Mike’s Considers Sale

24 Old Vinyl Records That Can Be Worth a Lot Today

Airspace shut down and major shipping lane closed after huge failed missile launch

Parents who raise successful, resilient kids never do these 5 things, experts say

19 Easy Ways to Fall Back Asleep After Waking Up in the Middle of the Night

The 10 Craziest Cars In Jay Leno’s Garage

Giant coyote killed in southern Michigan turns out to be a gray wolf — despite the species vanishing from region 100 years ago

512-962-8636

Buy A Gift Card

WHISKEY AND THE RANGE

Austin detours' whiskey & gun range tour.

Austin might be a place for creatives and artists, but it’s also a haven for rugged outdoor enthusiasts! On this tour, we will get extreme starting at The Range, Austin’s premiere shooting range operated by a team of military-trained professionals and firearm industry experts. Here you will have the chance to go head to head with each other in an intensely entertaining shooting competition. Next, we will head to one of Austin’s favorite whiskey distilleries. Here guests will enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the facilities and hand crafted cocktails.

You're going to love this unique Austin, Texas experience!

• Gun safety and shooting at Austin’s “country club” of ranges
• VIP area available for groups
• Can add on competitions and shootouts to make it a teambuilding event

Add to our mailing list

Jesse Daniel Announces New Album, ‘Countin’ The Miles’

New Jesse Daniel is coming soon.

The California native just announced his fourth studio album Countin’ The Miles is slated to drop everywhere on June 7th, his first project since signing with Nashville-based label Lightning Rod Records.

In addition, Daniel released a new single today called “Comin’ Apart At The Seams,” which features background vocals from Jon Randall and fiddle playing by the legendary Gene Elders (of George Strait’s Ace in the Hole Band), who sadly passed away shortly after recording.

Daniel says he wrote “Comin’ Apart At The Seams” about the “spirit of perseverance and earned toughness” he learned by growing up in rural California in a broken home:

“I wrote this song about my experience in life. It’s autobiographical and touches on the way my brothers and I grew up. Coming from a broken home, there were a lot of hurdles for us, but I see now that those hard lessons we learned so young were actually a blessing.

I wrote this one about the spirit of perseverance and the earned toughness that comes from an upbringing like we had. It’s the realization that no one is coming to save you. That’s on us to save ourselves.”

Countin’ The Miles  was recorded at Austin’s Arlyn Studios, and features several other very talented musicians including pianist Ronnie Huckaby and the aforementioned Elders of George Strait’s Ace in the Hole Band, as well as bassist Kevin Smith, who a longtime member of Willie Nelson’s Family Band.

Ben Haggard , son of country legend Merle Haggard, and Jodi Lyford, Daniel’s partner, bandmate and frequent co-writer, have vocal features on the album.

This album marks Daniel’s first go as sole producer:

“My fourth studio album ‘Countin’ The Miles’ drops June 7th. Making this record was my first step into the role as the sole producer.

I poured everything into it – countless hours were spent writing each song, arranging the instrumentation, rehearsing and hammering away in the studio to make this album what it is. It features multiple duets, an incredible band and my best collection of songs to date.

I am extremely proud of it.”

The California native is known for keeping the Bakersfield sound of country music alive and well, and this next release is shaping up to be another solid addition to his impressive catalog.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jesse Daniel (@thejessedaniel)

Daniel most recently released his fantastic record Beyond These Walls in 2021.

You can check out the latest single below.

“Comin’ Apart At The Seams”

Countin’ The Miles tracklist:

1. Comin’ Apart At The Seams 2. That’s My Kind Of Country 3. Countin’ The Miles 4. Ol’ Montana 5. Restless 6. When Your Tomorrow’s In The Past (feat. Jodi Lyford) 7. Lonesome Blues 8. Tomorrow’s Good Ol’ Days (feat. Ben Haggard) 9. Golden State Rambler 10. Steppin’ Out (feat. Jodi Lyford) 11. Cut Me Loose

Jesse Daniel 2024 tour dates:

April 4 – Phoenix, AZ @ Valley Bar ^ April 5 – San Diego, CA @ Casbah ^ April 6 – Los Angeles, CA @ Desert 5 Spot ^ April 7 – Morro Bay, CA @ The Siren ^ April 10 – Fresno, CA @ Strummer’s ^ April 11 – Bakersfield, CA @ The Nile Theater ^ April 12 – Santa Cruz, CA @ The Catalyst ^ April 13 – Sacramento, CA @ Goldfield Trading Post Sacramento ^ April 14 – Chico, CA @ Tackle Box Bar & Grill ^ April 16 – Bend, OR @ Volcanic Theatre Pub ^ April 17 – Portland, OR @ Mississippi Studios ^ April 18 – Seattle, WA @ Tractor Tavern ^ April 19 – Boise, ID @ Neurolux ^ April 20 – Salt Lake City, UT @ The State Room ^ April 21 – Denver, CO @ Globe Hall ^ April 26 – Bandera, TX @ Big Texas Bash April 27 – Galveston, TX @ Rock The Coast – Texas Country at Sea May 16 – Oklahoma City, OK @ Blue Note Lounge # May 17 – Kansas City, MO @ Knuckleheads # May 18 – Des Moines, IA @ xBk Live # May 19 – Waterloo, NE @ Buck’s Bar and Grill # May 22 – Wisconsin Dells, WI @ Showboat Saloon # May 23 – Chicago, IL @ Carol’s Pub # May 24 – Cleveland, OH @ Beachland Ballroom & Tavern # May 25 – Columbus, OH @ Rumba Cafe # May 26 – Indianapolis, IN @ Hi-Fi # May 29 – Newport, KY @ The Southgate House Revival # May 30 – Lexington, KY @ The Burl # May 31 – Nashville, TN @ 3rd and Lindsley # June 1 – Little Rock, AR @ White Water Tavern # June 7 – Austin, TX @ Antone’s Nightclub % June 14 – Helotes, TX @ John T. Floore’s * June 21 – Houston, TX @ Last Concert Cafe June 22 – Beaumont, TX @ 7 Oaks Event Garden June 29 – LaPorte, IN @ Red Wine and Brew July 27 – Lowell, MA @ Lowell Folk Festival August 17 – Red River, NM @ Motherlode Saloon August 20 – Waterloo, NE @ Buck’s Bar and Grill & August 21 – Pierre, SD @ Grey Goose Store & Social Club & August 23 – Gallatin Gateway, MT @ The Westerner & August 24 – Butte, MT @ Covellite Theatre & August 25 – Missoula, MT @ Monk’s Bar & August 28 – Selah, WA @ The Outskirts Brewing Company & August 29 – Portland, OR @ Topaz Farm & August 30 – Walla Walla, WA @ T-Post Tavern & September 1 – Colville, WA @ FarmJam 2024 September 11 – Murfreesboro, TN @ Hop Springs Beer Park $ September 12 – Johnson City, TN @ Families Free September 13 – Bristol, VA/TN @ Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion September 14 – Wilmington, NC @ The Eagle’s Dare $ September 15 – Raleigh, NC @ The Pour House Music Hall $ September 18 – Richmond, VA – Ember Music Hall $ September 19 – Winchester, VA @ The Monument $ September 21 – Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Made $

^ – with support from Brit Taylor # – with support from Alex Williams % – with Pedal Steel Noah * – with Mark Chesnutt & – with support from Tylor & the Train Robbers $ – with support from Two Runner

MORE FROM WHISKEY RIFF

WHISKEY RIFF RAFF PODCAST

WHISKEY RIFF SHOP

STAY ENTERTAINED

A riff on what country is really about.

Never Miss Out

SiR Will Bring His ‘Heavy’ Album To A City Near You On ‘The Bad Karma Tour’ With Zacari

Top Dawg Entertainment crooner SiR has a new album out, and he’s taking it on tour this summer. Heavy has been out for a little over two weeks; it features Ab-Soul , Anderson .Paak , Isaiah Rashad , Scribz Riley, and Ty Dolla Sign. The Bad Karma tour will kick off on July 23 in Silver Spring, Maryland and run through August 21, when it’ll conclude at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles. SiR will be joined on the tour by fellow TDE artist Zacari , who is due to release his own album sometime this year.

Tickets for the Bad Karma Tour will go on presale Thursday, April 4, and on general sale Friday, April 5 at 10 am local time. You can find more infomation at inglewoodsir.com . See the tour dates below.

SiR’s Bad Karma Tour Dates:

07/23 — Silver Spring, MD @ The Fillmore Silver Spring 07/24 — Philadelphia, PA @ The Fillmore Philadelphia 07/25 — Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Soundstage 07/27 — Boston, MA @ House of Blues Boston 07/29 — Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Paramount 07/30 — Toronto, ON @ HISTORY 08/02 — Detroit, MI @ The Fillmore Detroit 08/06 — Nashville, TN @ Marathon Music Works 08/07 — Raleigh, NC @ The Ritz 08/08 — Atlanta, GA @ Tabernacle 08/10 — Houston, TX @ House of Blues Houston 08/11 — Austin, TX @ Emo’s Austin 08/13 — Denver, CO @ Summit 08/15 — Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren 08/16 — Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues Anaheim 08/17 — San Diego, CA @ SOMA 08/20 — San Francisco, CA @ The Masonic 08/21 — Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium

BAD KARMA TOUR TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY ⛓️🎟️ pic.twitter.com/GC1XTMICjP — SiR (@inglewoodSiR) April 3, 2024