Tasting notes·Balcones

Balcones Pot Still Bourbon

The Balcones Pot Still Bourbon comes from Texas and is characterised by its unique composition of roasted blue corn, wheat, rye and malt. This whisky is produced entirely on site, from the milling of the grains to storage and distillation.

The panel

Marcel
76
Sascha
78

Mean 77.0 · spread 2

Value for money 3/5

Distillery
Balcones
Type
Straight Bourbon
Country
USA
Strength
46% ABV
Character
delicate

Tasting

Nose

At first sniff, we immediately notice the distinctive scent of burnt caramel and the rich nuances of pecan or walnut. A hint of green apple (Granny Smith) and the aroma of baked chestnuts complete this inviting range of flavours.

Palate

The first sip reveals a creamy, spicy and sweet explosion of flavour. The intensity of black pepper, which is defined here not by heat but by flavour, stands out in particular. The well-known "Balcones Funk" note, which is already familiar from our Texas Rye Review, gives this bourbon a unique flavour. Toffee, candied apple and a hint of corn combine to create a full-bodied flavour experience that is accompanied by a subtle influence of high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS).

Finish

The finish is long-lasting and offers a roasted malt note accompanied by a hint of burnt flavour. The sweetness remains present and dry, giving our whisky a balanced and appealing aftertaste.

Verdicts

Marcel

The Balcones Pot Still Bourbon is a true character, delivering drinking pleasure with its spicy 'Balcones Funk' and sweet, creamy toffee notes. Not necessarily for purists, but a lively experience for anyone looking for something different from the usual bourbon.

Sascha

With its balanced structure of spicy black pepper, sweet toffee, and a subtle malt roast, the Balcones Pot Still Bourbon demonstrates a successful harmony. The complex aroma lingers for a long time, even though the influence of HFCS slightly distorts the overall impression.

What it is worth

No auction record for this distillery, so we cannot tell you what this bottle is worth. We would rather say that than guess.

Source

Tasting note and scores by WHISKY:EDITION — tasted by Marcel and Sascha, published 2024-04-12.