Balcones claims a first for Texan whisky

Texas whisky brand Balcones is marking its fifth birthday with a launch which the distiller claims is the US state’s first single barrel Bourbon release.

Just 10 bottles from the 53-gallon barrel will be made available in the UK, where they will go on sale in mid-September with an RRP of £95 through whisky specialist Master of Malt.

For those who fail to get their hands on this small initial allocation, Balcones confirmed plans for a further fifth anniversary single barrel release within the next few months.

Chip Tate, president & head distiller at Balcones said: “It seemed fitting that Balcones release a true artisan, craft Bourbon made by me start to finish here in Texas to celebrate Balcones’ five years in craft distilling.

“Authenticity is at the heart of any great craft and this is our attempt to make that point through our whisky. It’s also just fun to keep little surprises up your sleeve. Who knows what else you might see from Balcones in the future?”

To accompany the launch, Balcones and Master of Malt are planning to co-host a “Google Hangout Tasting with Chip”, with further details due to be announced in the coming weeks via the online retailer’s website.

Highlighting the demand for this type of limited edition release, Ben Ellefsen at Master of Malt  said: “Our consumers are increasingly looking for interesting, unique small batch spirits and appreciate the value of them. They want a story and a personality behind what they buy. This special Bourbon fits these credentials perfectly!”

Founded in 2008, Balcones claims to be the first Texan whisky producer since Prohibition. In addition to its Texas single malt, the Waco-based brand produces a range of blue corn whiskies, which launched in the UK last autumn.