{"title":"Still Austin","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"still-austin-cask-strength-750ml","title":"Still Austin Cask Strength 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStill Austin Cask Strength 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a barrel-proof Texas straight bourbon whiskey bottled at approximately 59% ABV (118 proof) in a 750ml format. A back-to-back Double Gold winner at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2022 and 2023, this expression represents the uncut, unfiltered heart of Still Austin's grain-to-glass program.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: ~59% (118 proof, varies by batch)  |  Origin: Austin, Texas, USA  |  Cask Strength Straight Bourbon  |  Distillery: Still Austin Whiskey Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eStill Austin Whiskey Co. operates out of Austin, Texas, handling every step of production—from milling to bottling—on-site using exclusively Texas-grown grains. The mashbill runs 70% white corn, 25% rye, and 5% malted barley, yielding a bourbon with pronounced spice character alongside its corn-driven sweetness. What truly distinguishes this cask strength release is an aging technique called slow water reduction, or \u003cem\u003eélevage\u003c\/em\u003e, borrowed from the brandy houses of Cognac and Armagnac. Brought to the distillery by Master Blender Nancy Fraley, who studied for years in those French regions, the process involves adding carefully measured small amounts of water to aging barrels over several months. This reduces harsh phenolic compounds while coaxing more soluble sugars from the oak, resulting in a barrel-proof bourbon with unusual balance and complexity for its strength.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Citrus leaps from the glass first—blood orange and tangerine—before giving way to assertive oak spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Beneath the bright top notes, deeper layers of brown sugar and dried fruit emerge as the bourbon opens up.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The palate shifts darker than the nose suggests, leading with dense caramel, vanilla butter, and roasted coffee. Mid-palate brings heavy char, spiced cocoa, and black pepper, while the rye's influence pushes through with raisin and earthy undertones. At full proof, the texture is thick and coating without becoming harsh—a testament to the élevage process.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Surprisingly long and sweet for a cask strength bourbon, lingering with marmalade, cocoa, brown sugar, and toasted oak. The spice recedes gradually, leaving a warm, clean close.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Still Austin Cask Strength\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNeat with a few drops of water is the ideal starting point; the élevage process has already done much of the work of taming the barrel proof, and even small additions of water unlock additional sweetness and citrus brightness. A large ice cube also works well, slowly opening the bourbon as it dilutes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOld Fashioned:\u003c\/strong\u003e The dense caramel and cocoa notes anchor the cocktail, standing up to bitters without losing structure at barrel proof.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBoulevardier:\u003c\/strong\u003e The high rye content and dark spice profile pair naturally with Campari's bitterness and sweet vermouth's herbal complexity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhiskey Sour:\u003c\/strong\u003e The bright citrus character on the nose translates beautifully alongside fresh lemon, and the high ABV maintains flavor presence through dilution.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBourbon enthusiasts exploring the Texas craft whiskey scene\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBarrel-proof fans seeking something outside the Kentucky mainstream\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting to a whiskey collector who values grain-to-glass provenance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding cocktails that demand a high-proof, flavor-forward base spirit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Still Austin Cask Strength taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It delivers dense, dark caramel and roasted coffee up front, followed by spiced cocoa, black pepper, and brown sugar, with a long marmalade-and-oak finish. The 70\/25\/5 corn-rye-barley mashbill gives it noticeable spice alongside the corn-driven sweetness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Still Austin Cask Strength compare to Four Roses Small Batch Select?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both occupy a similar price tier and appeal to drinkers who value complex, spice-forward bourbon. Still Austin Cask Strength runs spicier overall, with heavier char and cocoa notes, while Four Roses Small Batch Select leans more floral and fruit-forward thanks to its blend of multiple yeast strain recipes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Still Austin Cask Strength good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes—despite the approximately 118-proof strength, the élevage slow water reduction process conducted during aging gives it atypical balance for a cask strength bourbon, making it approachable neat with just a few drops of water.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Still Austin Cask Strength made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is distilled, aged, and bottled at Still Austin Whiskey Co. in Austin, Texas. The distillery sources all of its grains from Texas farms, maintaining a true grain-to-glass production chain within the state.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Still Austin Cask Strength?\u003c\/strong\u003e Texas-style smoked brisket complements the heavy char and oak spice; dark chocolate truffles echo the cocoa and brown sugar notes; pecan pie mirrors the caramel sweetness; aged cheddar provides a savory contrast to the bourbon's richness; and citrus-glazed pork belly picks up on the blood orange aromatics.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Still Austin Cask Strength come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard release is a 750ml bottle. Availability in other formats may vary by market.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Still Austin Cask Strength worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e It positions as a premium craft bourbon, competing with established barrel-proof offerings from larger distilleries. The back-to-back Double Gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the unique élevage aging process provide strong justification within its price tier.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Still Austin Cask Strength?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eConsecutive Double Gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2022 and 2023 place this bourbon among the most decorated craft releases from Texas. The élevage technique—virtually unheard of in American whiskey production—gives the spirit a level of integration at barrel proof that most cask strength bourbons only achieve after significant dilution. Combined with a transparent grain-to-glass operation using all Texas-grown grains, this expression stands as serious evidence that the Texas bourbon category has matured well beyond novelty. For drinkers who want barrel proof with finesse rather than just firepower, this is one of the more compelling options available.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Still Austin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44839213793449,"sku":"38527","price":54.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/StillAustinCaskStrength750ML.webp?v=1773794411"},{"product_id":"still-austin-bottled-in-bond-red-corn-bourbon-750ml","title":"Still Austin Bottled in Bond Red Corn Bourbon 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStill Austin Bottled in Bond Red Corn Bourbon 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 100-proof (50% ABV), grain-to-glass Texas bourbon built on heirloom Jimmy Red corn, bottled at 750ml. Whisky Advocate awarded the 5-year expression 94 points and named it #7 on their Top 20 Most Exciting Whiskies of 2024—a significant achievement for any craft distillery, let alone one working with a nearly extinct heritage grain.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 50% (100 proof)  |  Origin: Austin, Texas, USA  |  Bottled in Bond (minimum 4 years)  |  Distillery: Still Austin Whiskey Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eStill Austin Whiskey Co. operates as a true grain-to-glass distillery just outside Austin, sourcing all ingredients from Texas. The mashbill—36% Jimmy Red corn, 34% white corn, 25% rye, and 5% malted barley—centers on an heirloom corn variety native to the American South that was once prized for moonshine production but nearly went extinct. Jimmy Red corn yields far less than conventional yellow corn, which keeps production inherently small-batch. Meeting bottled-in-bond requirements, the bourbon is produced in a single distilling season, aged in a federally bonded warehouse for a minimum of four years, and bottled at exactly 100 proof. More recent releases have carried 5-year (2024) and 6-year (2025) age statements, reflecting the distillery's growing inventory and patience with maturation in the demanding Texas climate.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with cracked black pepper and dusty leather before revealing softer layers of cocktail cherries and sweet cream. Behind those initial impressions, there is a Creamsicle-like sweetness alongside roasted hazelnuts and a subtle fresh-baked funnel cake quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e On entry, buttery cornbread and caramel coat the palate, quickly joined by a chile pepper zing that gives the mid-palate real electricity. Layers of marzipan, peanut brittle, and fruit jam build toward the peak, while a cooling peppermint note lightens the overall intensity. Red velvet cake and roasted pumpkin seed flavors emerge as the bourbon opens up in the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is long and richly textured, with charred oak fading into cocoa, coffee, and pecan pie. A light nuttiness reminiscent of tahini lingers alongside dried hay and black tea, leaving a warm, satisfying conclusion.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Red Corn Bourbon\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt 100 proof, this bourbon rewards neat pours or a single large ice cube, which tempers the rye-driven spice and lets the corn's natural sweetness unfold. A few drops of water can amplify the creamy, pastry-like aromatics.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOld Fashioned:\u003c\/strong\u003e The peppery backbone and caramel sweetness hold up beautifully against bitters and a sugar cube, with the heirloom corn adding unusual depth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBoulevardier:\u003c\/strong\u003e Chile pepper spice and cocoa notes pair naturally with Campari's bitterness and sweet vermouth's herbal richness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhiskey Sour:\u003c\/strong\u003e The fruit jam and Creamsicle character brighten against fresh citrus, while 100 proof ensures the bourbon is never drowned out.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBourbon enthusiasts exploring heritage grain whiskeys beyond standard yellow corn mashbills\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting to a whiskey collector who follows Whisky Advocate's annual rankings\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSide-by-side tastings comparing Texas-aged bourbon against Kentucky bottled-in-bond expressions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCocktail night when you want a high-proof, flavor-dense base spirit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Red Corn Bourbon taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It delivers bold chile pepper spice, buttery cornbread, and caramel on the palate, with a long cocoa-and-pecan-pie finish. The heirloom Jimmy Red corn contributes a distinctive nuttiness and pastry-like sweetness uncommon in standard bourbon.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Red Corn Bourbon compare to High Wire Jimmy Red Bourbon?\u003c\/strong\u003e High Wire Distilling uses a 100% Jimmy Red corn mashbill, producing a more corn-forward, singular flavor profile. Still Austin blends 36% Jimmy Red with white corn, rye, and malted barley, resulting in a more layered and spice-driven bourbon that many find more approachable.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Red Corn Bourbon good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Absolutely—the bottled-in-bond 100-proof strength carries enough complexity for extended neat sessions, and the interplay of pepper, cream, and cocoa keeps each sip engaging without being harsh.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Red Corn Bourbon made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is distilled, aged, and bottled at Still Austin Whiskey Co., a grain-to-glass distillery located just outside Austin, Texas. All grains used in production, including the Jimmy Red corn, are sourced from Texas farms.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Red Corn Bourbon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoked brisket plays off the charred oak and pepper notes. Pecan pie echoes the nutty, caramel finish. Dark chocolate truffles complement the cocoa undertones. Cornbread with honey butter mirrors the grain-forward sweetness. Aged cheddar balances the rye spice with sharp, savory contrast.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Red Corn Bourbon come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard release is a 750ml bottle at 100 proof.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Red Corn Bourbon worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e It positions as a premium craft bourbon, and the 94-point Whisky Advocate score paired with heirloom grain sourcing and true grain-to-glass production justifies its place above mass-market bottled-in-bond options in terms of both quality and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Red Corn Bourbon?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eVery few American distilleries build a bourbon around Jimmy Red corn, an heirloom variety that nearly vanished entirely before being preserved by seed savers. Still Austin not only revived the grain but designed an entire mashbill to showcase it alongside complementary rye spice and white corn sweetness—all sourced exclusively from Texas. Whisky Advocate's 94-point score and Top 20 ranking in 2024 confirmed what early adopters already knew: this is one of the most distinctive bourbons being made in the United States today. The bottled-in-bond designation adds a layer of transparency and trust, guaranteeing age, proof, and single-distillery provenance in every bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Still Austin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44839470268585,"sku":"40076","price":79.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/StillAustinBottledinBondRedCornBourbon750ML_6307f0ff-e5ef-44c5-82c8-766f10f76e72.webp?v=1773795203"},{"product_id":"still-austin-straight-bourbon-the-musician-750ml","title":"Still Austin Straight Bourbon The Musician 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStill Austin Straight Bourbon The Musician 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a grain-to-glass Texas straight bourbon bottled at 49.2% ABV (98.4 proof) in a 750ml format. This expression earned a Double Gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and it stands apart in the craft bourbon landscape thanks to a Cognac-inspired production technique rarely seen in American whiskey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 49.2% (98.4 Proof)  |  Origin: Austin, Texas  |  Minimum 2 Years  |  Distillery: Still Austin Whiskey Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStill Austin Whiskey Co. was founded in 2015 in Austin, Texas, operating as a true grain-to-glass distillery with 100% of its grains sourced from Texas farmers. The Musician's mashbill — 70% non-GMO white corn, 25% Elbon rye, and 5% Wildfire malted barley — is aged for a minimum of two years in new, charred American oak barrels. What truly distinguishes this bourbon is the \"slow water reduction\" or élevage process, an ancient technique borrowed from the brandy-making traditions of Cognac and Armagnac. Master Blender Nancy Fraley, who studied under master spirits blenders in those French regions, oversees this painstaking step: over several months, minute quantities of water are added to the aging barrels, reducing harsh phenolic compounds and coaxing more soluble sugars from the oak.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rich caramel leads the way, followed by vanilla settling quietly in the background. Brown sugar emerges as the glass opens, rounding out a warm, inviting nose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is distinctly sweet, with chocolate-covered cherries arriving first on the palate. A burst of black pepper and mesquite spice from the Elbon rye takes hold at mid-palate, while layers of honey, caramel, toffee, and vanilla build complexity through the peak. Wine Enthusiast's Kara Newman described the palate as \"velvety,\" noting the interplay of brown sugar and black pepper tingle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Remarkably long and persistent, with soft spices trailing into a lingering touch of those same chocolate-covered cherries. The finish is smooth and unhurried — one that keeps revealing itself well after the last sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink The Musician\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 98.4 proof, The Musician has enough backbone to drink neat while still remaining approachable. A few drops of water open up the sweeter caramel and vanilla elements without muting the rye spice. Its flavor profile also makes it a versatile cocktail base: try it in an \u003cstrong\u003eOld Fashioned\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the brown sugar and vanilla amplify the cocktail's core sweetness; a \u003cstrong\u003eBoulevardier\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the mesquite spice and chocolate notes stand up beautifully against Campari's bitterness; or a \u003cstrong\u003eWhiskey Sour\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the honey and caramel tones create a richer, more layered drink than a standard bourbon would deliver.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBourbon drinkers exploring the Texas craft whiskey scene for the first time\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting someone who appreciates grain-to-glass production and unique distilling techniques\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a home bar cocktail anchor with enough proof and complexity for stirred drinks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSide-by-side tastings comparing regional bourbon styles — Kentucky vs. Texas terroir\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does The Musician taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e The Musician leads with sweet caramel, chocolate-covered cherries, and brown sugar before transitioning into black pepper and mesquite spice from the rye grain. It finishes long and smooth with lingering soft spices and honey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does The Musician compare to Balcones Texas Pot Still Bourbon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are Texas-made craft bourbons, but they take different approaches: The Musician uses a traditional column-style grain-to-glass process with a Cognac-inspired élevage technique, while Balcones is known for its copper pot still distillation and use of roasted blue corn in certain expressions. The Musician tends to land on the sweeter, more approachable side of the spectrum at 98.4 proof.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs The Musician good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — at 49.2% ABV it carries enough intensity to reward neat sipping, while the élevage process smooths out harsh edges that many younger bourbons exhibit. A splash of water further unlocks the sweeter caramel and vanilla layers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is The Musician made?\u003c\/strong\u003e The Musician is produced entirely at the Still Austin Whiskey Co. distillery in Austin, Texas. All grains in the mashbill — white corn, Elbon rye, and Wildfire malted barley — are sourced from Texas farms, making it a fully Texas-origin product.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with The Musician?\u003c\/strong\u003e Texas-style smoked brisket complements the mesquite spice notes naturally. Dark chocolate or chocolate truffles echo the chocolate-covered cherry character on the palate. Pecan pie amplifies the caramel and brown sugar sweetness. Sharp aged cheddar provides a savory counterpoint to the bourbon's sweetness. Grilled stone fruit with honey mirrors the honey and vanilla finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does The Musician come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The Musician is available in the standard 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs The Musician worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e The Musician positions as a mid-premium craft bourbon, and its grain-to-glass provenance, unique élevage production step, and Double Gold medal from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition place it firmly in competitive territory for the price tier. For drinkers seeking something distinct from the Kentucky bourbon mainstream, it represents genuine differentiation rather than marketing novelty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy The Musician?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe defining edge here is Nancy Fraley's élevage technique — a slow water reduction process borrowed from French brandy traditions and applied to bourbon, a step virtually no other American whiskey producer employs at this scale. That process yields a texture and sweetness integration that belies the bourbon's relatively young minimum age of two years. The Double Gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition validates the approach against a broad competitive field. For anyone seeking a bourbon with genuine provenance — Texas-grown grains, a named master blender with documented Old World training, and a production method that demands patience — The Musician delivers substance behind the story.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Still Austin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45287886487721,"sku":"40586","price":39.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/StillAustinStraightBourbonTheMusician750ML_aab7bc54-30d4-4bb1-b289-a48954bd42b0.webp?v=1773794877"},{"product_id":"still-austin-bottled-in-bond-blue-corn-bourbon-750ml","title":"Still Austin Bottled in Bond Blue Corn Bourbon 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStill Austin Bottled in Bond Blue Corn Bourbon 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 100-proof (50% ABV) Texas straight bourbon featuring a remarkably rye-heavy, blue corn-forward mashbill in a 750ml bottle. What makes this release genuinely unusual is its 44% rye content — one of the highest rye percentages found in any product legally classified as bourbon — balanced by the natural sweetness of blue corn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 50% (100 proof)  |  Origin: Austin, Texas, USA  |  Bottled in Bond (minimum 4 years aged)  |  Distillery: Still Austin Whiskey Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStill Austin Whiskey Co. distills entirely in Austin, Texas, making it a grain-to-glass operation in the heart of the state's capital. The mashbill is striking: 26% blue corn, 25% white corn, 44% rye, and 5% malted barley. Blue corn was selected specifically because its inherent sweetness counterbalances the assertive spice of such a high rye proportion. As a Bottled in Bond expression, this bourbon meets the strict requirements of the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897 — distilled in a single season, by one distiller, at one distillery, aged a minimum of four years in a federally bonded warehouse, and bottled at exactly 100 proof.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with bright red berries and powdered sugar icing before moving into citrus notes of grapefruit peel and dried lemon. Deeper layers reveal cocoa, shortcake, and a quiet eucalyptus undertone woven beneath the cooked corn and rye grain character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is rich with strawberry jam and tres leches cake sweetness, quickly met by a mid-palate surge of rye spice, caramel candies, and clove. At its peak, flavors of Vietnamese coffee, flamed orange peel, French vanilla, shortbread butter cookie, light brown sugar, and juicy red apple compete for attention — a complex and layered bourbon that rewards slow sipping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium to long, landing on cherry cobbler, matcha green tea, and caramelized sugar with a trailing hint of bubblegum sweetness. White pepper lingers alongside gentle oak tannins, keeping the rye spice present through the final moments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Blue Corn BiB\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 100 proof, this bourbon holds up well neat but benefits from a few drops of water to unlock the sweeter corn and pastry notes hiding beneath the rye. A single large ice cube also works, tempering the spice without drowning the complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eManhattan:\u003c\/strong\u003e The 44% rye backbone gives this bourbon the spice and structure typically reserved for straight rye whiskey, making a Manhattan with serious grip.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBoulevardier:\u003c\/strong\u003e The berry-forward fruit notes and caramel sweetness pair naturally with Campari's bitterness and sweet vermouth's herbal depth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOld Fashioned:\u003c\/strong\u003e The inherent sweetness from the blue corn means you can dial back the sugar, letting the bourbon's own complexity do the heavy lifting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBourbon drinkers who enjoy rye whiskey and want something that bridges both categories\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting to a Texas whiskey enthusiast looking for a grain-to-glass Bottled in Bond expression\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExpanding a home bar collection with an unconventional high-rye bourbon mashbill\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSide-by-side tastings comparing traditional corn-heavy bourbons against rye-dominant expressions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Blue Corn BiB taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It leads with red berry sweetness, caramel, and baking spice before a pronounced rye kick brings clove, white pepper, and citrus peel into the mix. The finish lingers with cherry cobbler, matcha, and caramelized sugar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Blue Corn BiB compare to Still Austin High Rye Bourbon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Still Austin's standard High Rye Bourbon uses a 25% rye mashbill, while the Blue Corn Bottled in Bond nearly doubles that to 44% rye, creating a significantly spicier and more complex profile. The BiB expression also carries a minimum four-year age statement and higher proof at 100, versus the standard release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Blue Corn BiB good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the 100-proof bottling strength delivers full flavor without being harsh, and a few drops of water open up additional pastry and fruit sweetness beneath the rye spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Blue Corn BiB made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is distilled, aged, and bottled at Still Austin Whiskey Co. in Austin, Texas, a grain-to-glass distillery that handles every step of production on-site.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Blue Corn BiB?\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoked brisket complements the rye spice and caramel sweetness. Dark chocolate truffles echo the cocoa and cherry notes. Aged cheddar or Gruyère stands up to the 100-proof intensity. Pecan pie mirrors the brown sugar and vanilla character. Mole-sauced dishes resonate with the blue corn earthiness and baking spice profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Blue Corn BiB come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard release is available in the 750ml bottle size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Blue Corn BiB worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e It positions as a premium craft bourbon, and the Bottled in Bond designation guarantees a minimum four-year age statement and 100-proof strength — both of which add verifiable value compared to younger or lower-proof Texas bourbons in the same price tier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Blue Corn BiB?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe defining feature here is not branding or packaging — it is one of the most rye-heavy mashbills ever put into a bottle legally labeled as bourbon. At 44% rye, it functionally sits at the intersection of bourbon and rye whiskey, delivering the sweetness of the former with the spice-driven complexity of the latter. The blue corn component is not a gimmick; its natural sugar content was specifically chosen to make that extreme rye proportion work harmoniously. Backed by the transparency and legal accountability of the Bottled in Bond designation, this is a Texas bourbon that earns attention on its own terms.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Still Austin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46754869903529,"sku":"41703","price":79.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/StillAustinBottledinBondBlueCornBourbon750ML.webp?v=1773795374"},{"product_id":"still-austin-tanager-cigar-blend-750ml","title":"Still Austin Tanager Cigar Blend 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStill Austin Tanager Cigar Blend 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 107.5-proof (53.75% ABV) Texas bourbon blended from three distinct corn bourbons using the rare French Petites Eaux aging technique. Hailed by The Daily Pour as \"one of the strongest American releases of 2025,\" this expression achieves remarkable depth without relying on a single finishing barrel — a genuine outlier in the cigar blend category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 53.75% (107.5 Proof)  |  Origin: Austin, Texas, USA  |  Style: Cigar Blend Bourbon  |  Distillery: Still Austin Distillery\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eStill Austin Distillery, based in Austin, Texas, grain-to-glass distills every drop on-site using exclusively Texas-grown grains. The 2025 Tanager Cigar Blend is composed of 53% blue corn bourbon, 25% red corn bourbon, and 22% white corn bourbon, with rye and malted barley rounding out the mashbills. What truly separates this release is the Petites Eaux technique — an ancient method borrowed from Cognac and Armagnac production in which the spirit is proofed down to 50 proof and rested in barrel for at least one additional year before final blending and proofing. This extended low-proof maturation extracts more caramelized wood sugars and develops a longer, richer palate. Crucially, no finishing barrels from sherry, rum, or cognac are used; every layer of flavor comes from the interplay of Texas grain and American oak.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with lemon tea and orange juice before settling into a warm center of caramel, peanut brittle, and overripe strawberries. Deeper inhalation reveals coconut, raspberry, and a subtle fruitcake sweetness that signals the complexity underneath.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the palate, cherries and raspberry preserves arrive immediately, layered over butterscotch and honey-candied almonds. The mid-palate develops stone fruit, dried apricot, and cherry compote, while cinnamon and hazelnut liqueur build toward a rich peak. At 107.5 proof, the mouthfeel is dense and oily without becoming harsh.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is notably long, unfolding salted caramel, brown butter, cocoa, and pipe tobacco alongside pear tart and Luxardo cherry sweetness. Lingering cinnamon, brown sugar, vanilla, and black pepper close out the experience with a warming, tobacco-laced fade.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Tanager Cigar Blend\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis bourbon rewards neat sipping at room temperature; give it five minutes in the glass to let the Petites Eaux-driven complexity fully open. A few drops of water soften the proof and amplify the fruit-forward mid-palate without diluting the long tobacco finish. For cocktails, the Tanager's intensity and dark fruit character make it a strong candidate for an \u003cstrong\u003eOld Fashioned\u003c\/strong\u003e, where its caramel and cherry notes shine against a simple syrup and bitters backdrop; a \u003cstrong\u003eBoulevardier\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the bourbon's tobacco and cocoa tones stand up to Campari and sweet vermouth; and a \u003cstrong\u003eManhattan\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the ripe berry and cinnamon flavors complement dry or sweet vermouth beautifully.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePairing with a full-bodied cigar on a slow evening — the tobacco and cocoa finish was designed for it\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a bourbon collector who already owns the usual shelf staples\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSide-by-side tastings comparing cigar blend techniques across American distilleries\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAfter-dinner sipping as a standalone dessert course\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Tanager Cigar Blend taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It leads with dark fruit — cherry, raspberry preserves, and stone fruit — layered over butterscotch, cinnamon, and honey-candied almonds. The finish is long and warming with pipe tobacco, cocoa, brown butter, and salted caramel.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Tanager Cigar Blend compare to Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend?\u003c\/strong\u003e Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend relies on a combination of finishing barrels — typically sherry, cognac, and Armagnac casks — to build complexity, while Still Austin's Tanager achieves its depth entirely through the Petites Eaux low-proof aging technique and a tri-color corn bourbon blend with no finishing barrels. Both sit at a premium tier, but Tanager's all-Texas, no-finish approach represents a fundamentally different philosophy of cigar blend construction.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Tanager Cigar Blend good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Absolutely — at 107.5 proof it carries serious weight, but the extended low-proof maturation creates a surprisingly smooth, oily mouthfeel that makes it very approachable without water.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Tanager Cigar Blend made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is distilled and blended at Still Austin Distillery in Austin, Texas, using 100% Texas-grown grains including red, white, and blue corn varieties along with rye and malted barley.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Tanager Cigar Blend?\u003c\/strong\u003e Dark chocolate truffles complement the cocoa and brown butter finish. Smoked brisket mirrors the bourbon's tobacco undertones. Blue cheese and honeycomb play off the salted caramel and candied almond notes. Pecan pie echoes the butterscotch and brown sugar sweetness. Dried fruit and nut charcuterie boards bring out the apricot and hazelnut character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Tanager Cigar Blend come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard release is available in the 750ml bottle size.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Tanager Cigar Blend worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Tanager positions as a premium limited-release bourbon, and its unique production method — Petites Eaux aging, tri-color corn blend, zero finishing barrels — gives it a genuine point of differentiation that justifies its place among high-end cigar blend bourbons.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Tanager Cigar Blend?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn a category dominated by finishing-barrel strategies, Tanager Cigar Blend stands alone by drawing all of its complexity from raw materials and an aging technique virtually no other American distillery employs. The Petites Eaux method — resting spirit at 50 proof in barrel for over a year — extracts a different spectrum of wood sugars and produces the long, layered finish that cigar blend drinkers seek. Artfully Bourbon flagged it as \"one we'll be revisiting when Whiskey of the Year conversations begin,\" and the 2025 critical reception suggests this release has moved Still Austin firmly into the conversation alongside established premium blenders. For drinkers who value grain-driven flavor and production innovation over cask-finishing shortcuts, this is one of the most compelling American bourbons released this year.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Still Austin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46754874196137,"sku":"41792","price":149.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Still_Austin_Tanager_Cigar_Blend_750ML.webp?v=1773792311"}],"url":"https:\/\/theliquorbarn.com\/collections\/still-austin.oembed","provider":"The Liquor Barn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}