Texas Whiskey Festival: Where the Heart of Texas Meets the Art of Whiskey

For the last 15 years, a boom has swept across Texas with no bust in sight. “We’re experiencing an absolute whiskey renaissance,” says Andrew Braunberg, author of Fires, Floods, Explosions, and Bloodshed: A History of Texas Whiskey. “The last time there were this many whiskey distilleries in Texas was probably during the Civil War.” Across the state, these distilleries practice the alchemy and art that transform grains into world class spirits. The Texas Whiskey Festival celebrates their achievements. 

Each year, the Texas Whiskey Association invites established and emerging Texas-based distilleries and blending houses to share their whiskeys, bourbons, and single malts at the festival. Aficionados and those new to the world of distilled spirits meet the craftsmen and women behind the brands and sample the fruits of their labor. With live entertainment, tasty food truck fare, and the camaraderie of fellow whiskey enthusiasts, it’s an evening to savor fine libations and toast friends both old and new. 

A Night of Savoring Texas Spirits

No matter which whiskeys, single malts, or bourbons you try, you’ll discover they capture the essence of Texas. They’re warm, welcoming, and authentic, just like the folks who make them! 

If you’re looking for a Texas-grown grain-to-glass whiskey, you’ll find it here. If you prefer a robust bourbon sourced from the finest distillates, then aged to perfection under Texas’ resplendent sun, you’ll find that here, too. With more than 35 distillers and master blenders in attendance, you’ll be hard-pressed to visit every booth. Linger over your favorites instead. And learn the liquors’ nuances firsthand from the people who are putting Texas whiskeys on the map. 

What's a Party without Food, Music, and a Barrel-Aged Cigar?

There’s no need to drink on an empty stomach since food trucks serve up crowd favorites. A concert caps off the evening for boot scootin’ and two stepping.  And if you look forward to puffing on an Ohana Nui barrel-aged cigar while sipping a smoky single malt, you’re in good company. 

A Hill Country Weekend Getaway 

The venue is the icing on the cake. Star Hill Ranch resembles an early 1900s Hill Country community. Relocated and lovingly restored historic buildings line the quaint Main Street and provide a perfect backdrop for the Texas Whiskey Festival’s old-fashioned hospitality.  

Star Hill Ranch is located just 25 miles west of downtown Austin and surrounded by stunning Texas Hill Country scenery. To round out your weekend, you’ll find the Hill Country Galleria nearby with shops and restaurants, as well as a variety of accommodations. 

To join this TX Hill Country sip and savor get-together and become part of the whiskey renaissance, please visit Texas Whiskey Festival’s official website.