Still Austin “The Artist”
Straight Rye Whiskey
49.8% ABV
$50
Website
We would like to thank Still Austin and Ro-Bro Marketing & PR for sending us a sample to review.
What the Distillery Says
Austin, TX (November 29, 2022) – Two years ago, Still Austin Whiskey Co. launched its Straight Bourbon, affectionately known as “The Musician.” The flagship spirit took Texas by storm, becoming one of the fastest-selling spirits in the history of the Lone Star State—and winning Double Gold at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Now, the grain-to-glass distiller is proud to announce that “The Musician” has a new companion. Introducing “The Artist,” a 100% Straight Rye Whiskey made from Texas grains that’s dedicated to the dreamers, visionaries, and artists who have inspired the team.
Aged for at least two years and bottled at 99.6 proof (49.8% ABV), the new flagship rye whiskey represents the culmination of years of effort in which all the ingredients came together perfectly to create a work of art that feels, somehow, effortless. The spirit’s blushing, oaky hue foretells a complex nose, with hints of honey, cherries, fig, clove and coffee. The palate of spicy chocolate, apricot, sandalwood, ginger and caramel gives way to lingering after-impressions of cinnamon, molasses, nutmeg and orange zest.
“Our team put a lot of hard work and love into this release,” said Brandon Joldersma, Chief Operating Officer, Still Austin Whiskey Co. “We could not be prouder to bring another expression to life that represents the spirit of our city.”
The artwork on the label, created by internationally acclaimed artist and native Texan Marc Burckhardt, is the latest in the series of “archetypical” Austinites (e.g. The Musician, The Naturalist). Each provides a sense of the people who have influenced and inspired the team, while paying homage to the Texas terroir.
The Artist Straight Rye Whiskey is now available at the Still Austin distillery tasting room for the suggested retail price of $50.00 is available in Texas, online and at Reserve Bar.
What Gary Says
Nose: Honey, vanilla sugar cookies, cherries, sweet tobacco with a hint of mint.
Palate: Caramel, apricots, orange, oak, cinnamon, pepper and ginger.
Finish: Short to moderate in length, drying with citrus spice and mint.
Comments: For a two-year old rye, this is pretty solid. No, it isn’t incredibly complex, but more importantly it doesn’t have any off-putting notes that you can easily get with a young whiskey. Does great in an Old Pal cocktail. With the Texas heat, this may not do well with 10+ years, although I’m curious how it matures (hoping that perhaps a Texas Bottled in Bond is in the future).