TX Blended Whiskey
A Texas Farewell
Before my adventure as a whiskey enthusiast, I had the pleasure of trying TX Blended Whiskey as a shot. It was late 2012, and I was leaving for the military. A group of friends raised a shot and said their goodbyes. That shot was TX! A tribute to my heritage and a memory of the road. It wasn’t till years later, when I started to indulge in this passion, that I realized I could get this stuff on base. Yet my local ABC store did not sell it! It’s safe to say that this Texan gem has left a positive impression on me, even more so a few years down the road. More on that later. Despite an almost below-average rating of 3, I decided to kick it up to 4 out of 5 stars; this whiskey is a versatile and reliable choice for various occasions.
History Lesson
TX Whiskey was founded in 2010 by Leonard Firestone and Troy Robertson in Fort Worth, Texas. The brand gained attention for its whiskey-strong Texas identity and handcrafted bottle caps made from reclaimed cowboy boots. Initially sourcing their whiskey, they built the Whiskey Ranch distillery on a historic golf course overlooking downtown Fort Worth. In 2019, TX Whiskey was acquired by spirits giant Pernod Ricard, further expanding its reach while keeping its Texas roots intact.
Bottle Design
The bottle boasts a timeless and straightforward design, paying homage to its Texan origins. While it exudes a classic charm, it could benefit from a distinctive flair to the naked eye to captivate the attention of those browsing the shelves. However, it would be best to prepare yourself to be intrigued because this is where the narrative takes an exciting turn. The intricately woven canvas encircling the neck nods to the historic canvas chuckwagons deeply embedded in Texas heritage. Moving down, a silver band at the base pays homage to the iconic Texan silver spurs and belt buckles, featuring a boot stitch or clover design reminiscent of the intricate stitching found on cowboy boots.
And now, the pièce de résistance – the cap! A truly one-of-a-kind masterpiece meticulously handcrafted from reclaimed cowboy boot leather. Each cap is a unique work of art, ensuring that no two are alike. But the craftsmanship doesn’t stop there. The company goes above and beyond by creating caps from various materials, including footballs, baseballs, and even your cherished boot leather.
Pour
A generous amber pour hints at a sweetness to come. The whiskey glows with a golden warmth in the glass, inviting without being flashy. No sediment, no cloudiness—just a clean, easy-drinking spirit with a steady swirl.
Nose
Upon uncorking the bottle, the aroma immediately captures your attention. TX Blended Whiskey boasts a pleasant blend of caramel, vanilla bean-like Blue Bell Ice Cream, a hint of oak, and the usual suspects. While not overly complex, the scent is inviting and sets the stage for what’s to come.
Palate
Neat is best, and it delivers a smooth and approachable flavor profile. The initial notes of caramel and toffee are accompanied by a subtle spice and honey that adds a layer of complexity without overwhelming the palate. A mild smokiness lingers in the background, providing a touch of fascination. The overall taste is well-balanced, making it suitable for seasoned whiskey drinkers, especially those new to the spirit.
Finish
The finish is moderate in length, leaving behind a lingering warmth but no burn, with subtle notes of vanilla and oak. While not overly memorable, it complements the overall drinking experience.
Versatility & Occasion
One of the standout features of TX Blended Whiskey is its adaptability. Whether you prefer sipping your whiskey neat, on the rocks, mixed in a cocktail, Whiskey Ranch Water (you’re welcome), or even with a touch of smoke, this blend holds its own. The whiskey remains enjoyable in various settings, making it a reliable choice for any social gathering or personal indulgence.
A Personal Tribute
A few years ago, I experienced the loss of my father, a dedicated cop from West Texas and a skilled leathersmith as a hobby who was seldom seen without his beloved cowboy boots. Seeking to memorialize his legacy, I reached out to TX and presented them with my father’s boots and the last patch from his 21-year career as a police officer. Remarkably, TX halted their regular cap production to craft 12 unique bottle caps for me and my brothers—a service they offer, albeit typically with a longer turnaround time. This act of kindness and craftsmanship brought tears to our eyes. The image above captures these special caps, with two in the middle and a single cap on the left, each telling a poignant story of heritage and craftsmanship.
Final Thoughts
TX Blended Whiskey is a commendable addition to any whiskey collection, offering a versatile and enjoyable experience for enthusiasts of all levels. Its ability to shine in various settings, from casual sipping to creative cocktails, makes it a go-to choice for any occasion. While it may not boast the complexity of higher-end whiskies, its accessibility and smooth character make it a solid contender in its price range. TX Blended Whiskey is a reliable companion for those seeking a well-balanced and adaptable spirit.
The Details:
Proof: 82 • Mashbill: Unknown • Aged: ≤ 4yrs •Price: $35
Brown Water Rating Scale:
Nose: 3 • Palate: 4 • Finish: 3 • Uniqueness: 5 • Value: 5 • Overall: 4
This is a 5-point scale based on my own preferences. This was also tested by my father-in-law, another whiskey lover. 