Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/948966
march 2018 / the tasting panel / 95 and visitors a convenient spot to sample and learn more about the exceptional whisky during tastings four days a week or facility tours on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. "Whisky takes cues from its surroundings," Himstedt says. "We want to make whisky that speaks to Texas, both by exploring a very ingredient-focused approach and showcasing our unique maturation climate in the finished prod- uct." One example that speaks to the uniqueness of the terroir stems from the rapid temperature shifts of the Texas climate, which allow the casks to breathe at an accelerated rate; this also alters Balcones' aging process as compared to more traditional global whisky regions. Baby Blue—a Double Gold winner at the 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition—utilizes roasted blue corn from New Mexico and is the perfect option for bartenders developing a new drink for their respective program. While still in the original location, the Balcones team had a vision to make a malt whisky that would serve as the consummate choice for whisky consumers. Balcones "1" Texas Single Malt realized that dream by blending Old and New World traditions into a super-premium sipping whisky. Made from Scotland's Golden Promise barley, it's a spirit worth its weight in gold—as in Double Gold medals from the 2016 and 2017 New York World Wine & Spirits Competition and the 2017 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. While Balcones still calls Waco its home, it's come a long way from that spot under the bridge and will only continue to create expressions worthy of any Texan's pride. Tasting Notes Balcones Baby Blue Corn Whisky Roasted heirloom blue corn is the pride of this Texas whiskey. The maize is unctuous, and it adds weight to the mouthfeel, which broadens and disperses across the mouth. Flavors and aromas of walnut—along with a slight nut tan- nin quality—tangle with peach and Anjou pear notes. At 92 proof, there's still a soft touch to the palate and nose, perhaps a touch of black pepper to ramp up the sweeter tones of toffee oak and brown sugar. —Meridith May Balcones "1" Texas Single Malt Whisky, Classic Edition Deep-seated perfumed notes of sandalwood, mandarin orange, chocolate, and cedar are balmy and musky. On the palate, a hint of Sherry with an underpinning of molasses and dark chocolate is composed and elegant. The 106-proof spirit exudes the exotic sweetness of dates and figs with the savoriness of tobacco. Layers of honeyed pecans, baked apple, and caramel are beauti- fully enmeshed. —M.M. BALCONES DISTILLING *Balcones spells whisky without the "e." The Peaceful People Created by Maria Vieira, The East London Liquor Company ◗ 1½ oz. Balcones Baby Blue ◗ 1 barspoon mezcal ◗ ¾ oz. toasted butter pecan syrup ◗ ½ oz. lemon juice ◗ 3 dashes coffee bitters Combine all ingredients and shake with ice until chilled. Strain and serve up in traditional clay cups. Pair with a side of blue corn bread. "WHISKY TAKES CUES FROM ITS SURROUNDINGS, WE WANT TO MAKE WHISKY THAT SPEAKS TO TEXAS."