Dive into the heart of Texas with our exclusive article on Dripping Springs Distilling, a pioneer in the Texas Spirits industry. Explore the rich history, innovative distillation processes, and the unique flavors of Texas Whiskey that set this distillery apart. A must-read for spirit aficionados and curious explorers alike!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Distillery History and Facility
- Spirit Highlights
- Other Spirits
- Clubs and Memberships
- Conclusion
- FAQ
- About the Author
Introduction
As a connoisseur of fine Texas spirits and an enthusiast of Texas distilleries, I am thrilled to share my experience with Dripping Springs Distilling. This gem, nestled in the heart of Texas, stands out for its commitment to quality and its impressive range of spirits. This review, positively charged and written from a first-hand perspective, will delve into the distillery’s rich history, its modern and welcoming facility, and, of course, the delightful spirits that embody the essence of Texas Spirits.
What Makes Dripping Springs Distilling Different?
It is a modern-day kid/pet friendly distillery with a terrific food menu.
Distillery History and Facility
Dripping Springs Distilling is a cornerstone in the realm of Texas distilleries. Located at 5330 Bell Springs Rd, Dripping Springs, TX, this distillery has made a name for itself through its meticulous distillation process and commitment to quality. It is an icon in the world of Texas Spirits.
Their facility, a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern amenities, offers an immersive experience. From tours that provide a behind-the-scenes glimpse of their production process to tastings that showcase their spirits, every aspect of the visit is a tribute to their dedication to the craft.
When you first drive through the gates, you will notice meticulously manicured landscaping and will know instantly this is a classy operation. You will find multiple buildings on the ground, with plenty of parking. However, if you happen to go on a busy day where no parking is available, there is an overflow lot directly across the street. The main building for the public is directly in front of you, with entrances in the front and back.
Immediately when you walk in you know you are not just walking into a distillery where public attendance was an afterthought. The inside is beautifully decorated with a blend of country and contemporary highlights. This is the “Distiller’s Bar”.
The focal point of the Distiller’s Bar is the long straight bar with over 100 bottles of spirits in the background. At the bar you can order drinks and food, or you can find a seat and using a QR code and their online menu order from your table. I opted for the latter on my visit, and service was exceptional.
The menu is very generous, and I was excited to find they have many options to handle food allergies and intolerances, or just plain preferences. I went with the street tacos, and my wife went with shrimp and grits (which she couldn’t finish, so I did, and the grits were fantastic). The street tacos (comes in three’s) were very fresh and tasty and I would certainly recommend them.
When it came to drinks, I probably could have stayed there all day and tried every one of them (but I didn’t)! I of course wanted a tasting flight and chose the 1836 bourbon, plain vodka, and traditional gin. My wife went for the Pineapple Ginger Sling. I gave her drink a taste and it was very good. When you look at the menu you will see they hand make many of their cocktails and it is evident when you taste them.
As far as my tasting flight, you’ll find my results below under the Spirit Highlights.
Spirit Highlights
As mentioned above, I chose to taste three of their spirits, all which should make Texas proud. They came in shot glasses on a wooden paddle, with both the gin and vodka in chilled shot glasses.
- 1876 Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey: This Texas bourbon, which begins its journey as a 3–5-year aged spirit, undergoes a unique second barrel aging process in select port wine barrels from the Napa Valley. The result is a smooth, sippable bourbon that shines both neat and on the rocks. It is not going to knock your socks off, but you will find better bourbons at Texas distilleries where that is their main focus.
- Dripping Springs Vodka: A flagship product, this vodka is micro-distilled in copper pot stills in small batches, ensuring a refined and pure taste. It’s a testament to the distillery’s commitment to producing top-quality Texas spirits. When I say pure, I mean pure. This is one of the best tasting vodkas you will find anywhere. It has a clean crisp flavor that is unmistakable.
- Dripping Springs Traditional Gin: A beautifully crafted gin that balances traditional gin flavors with unique botanicals. Like its vodka counterpart, this gin tastes very good straight, which is not the case for many gins. It is clean and pure, and might even convert a non-gin drinker. I aim to try it in my undeniably magnificent gin and tonic home recipe to see how it fairs in that classic cocktail.
Other Spirits
In addition to the highlighted spirits, Dripping Springs Distilling produces a variety of other Texas spirits. These include Dripping Springs Artisan Orange and Lemon Vodka, Artisan Gin, Republic Whiskey, Tequila, and an array of liqueurs like Paula’s Liqueur and Martine Honeysuckle Liqueur.
Each spirit is crafted with the same dedication to quality and flavor that defines Dripping Springs Distilling. I didn’t get a chance to try these, but I will certainly be heading back for follow up visits and will explore these options.
Clubs and Memberships
There are no memberships at Dripping Springs Distilling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dripping Springs Distilling is a beacon in the world of Texas spirits, offering an exceptional range of products that are sure to delight any palate. Their dedication to craft and quality shines through in every bottle, making them a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Texas distilleries landscape. Visiting the distillery in Dripping Springs was a great adventure and I recommend anyone heading in that direction make the distillery a stop on that tour.
FAQ
- Where is Dripping Springs Distilling located?
- 5330 Bell Springs Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620.
- Can I tour the Dripping Springs Distilling facility?
- Yes, they offer behind-the-scenes tours that include tastings of their spirits.
- What are some of the standout spirits at Dripping Springs Distilling?
- Their 1876 Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Dripping Springs Vodka, and Artisan Gin are particularly noteworthy.
- Is there a place to eat at the distillery?
- Yes, they have a kitchen serving a variety of dishes, including shrimp tacos and chicken pesto sandwiches.
- Can I buy Dripping Springs Distilling spirits online?
- While their spirits are available at various retail locations, they also offer online purchases for shipping directly to your door. Another option for shipping is to use Drizly.
About the Author
A native of Texas, Ken “Texan” Pierce is a renowned alcohol aficionado with over 15 years of experience in the Texas wine, whiskey, and beer industry. With a vast number of alcohol production resources right in his back yard in the Texas Hill Country, Ken has made it his mission to promote and advance the Texas winemaking, distilling, and brewing industry across the country. His uncanny ability to identify tasting notes and pairings makes him a respected authority within alcohol enthusiast circles. When he’s not reviewing the latest craft spirits, you can find Ken playing his guitar, trying to sing, and sipping on a Texas libation.
