Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link in this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
In late fall of 2022, Still Austin Whiskey Co. released their 100% locally sourced Texas-grown rye grain expression, Still Austin “The Artist” Straight Rye Whiskey. “The Artist” follows Still Austin’s 2020 release of “The Musician” Straight Bourbon Whisky, which went on to win Double Gold at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Still Austin Whiskey Co. is a grain-to-glass distillery committed to sourcing their spirit-making ingredients from local, sustainable agriculture. Still Austin was founded in 2015 by Master Distiller Mike Delevante, CEO Chris Seals, Cleveland Seals, Andrew and Lisa Braunberg, Sal and Joanna Salinas, and Kris “KB” Bohm.
The Still Austin distillery contains a 42-foot column still that was designed by Delevante. They sought out a still making company in Scotland to custom make the column still, known as “Nancy.” The distillery also boasts a copper-pot still known as “The Queen.” Delevante has over 40 years worth of experience in the distilling industry. Still Austin’s liquor production team is led by Delevante, Head Distiller John Schrepel, and Master Blender Nancy Fraley.
Aged at least two years, Still Austin “The Artist” Straight Rye Whiskey is bottled at 99.6 proof and is made from a mash bill consisting of 100% Texas-grown rye grains. As with other whiskey expressions within Still Austin’s line-up, it is proofed and cut with pure Central Texas Hill Country water. Their whiskey is aged in a Central Texas rickhouse in American Oak Char #3 barrels made by a family-run cooperage from white oak that has been sustainably sourced in the Ozarks.
“Our team put a lot of hard work and love into this release,” said Brandon Joldersma, chief operating officer for Still Austin Whiskey Co. “We could not be prouder to bring another expression to life that represents the spirit of our city.”
In addition to creating the artwork for several other spirits in Still Austin’s lineup, the artwork on the “The Artist” label was created by the prolific, highly-awarded artist, and local Austinite, Mark Burckhardt.
Tasting Notes: Still Austin “The Artist” Straight Rye Whiskey
Vital Stats: Mash bill 100% Texas rye grains, 99.6 proof (49.8% ABV), 750 ml bottle MSRP $51.00, Certified Texas Whiskey.
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Appearance: Golden auburn.
Nose: Botanical notes of red berries, orange citrus, lemon zest, are the first to hit the nose, followed by hints of peach with lush grassy notes of honeydew and sandalwood.
Palate: On the palate are gentle spicy notes of caramel, with bright notes of citrus, light molasses, honeysuckle, wild berries, and fresh cut grass.
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