Product Overview
HWC’s Barrel Pick from Balcones Distillery is their Texas Single Malt, a Single-Barrel whisky finished in rum casks. Matured in New American Oak for 2 years and finished in a Used American oak barrel (that previously held Balcones Rum) for 3 years & 2 months. Total maturation of 5 years 6 months ~ 66 months. Barrel # 17090
Appearance:
A deep amber hue with golden highlights, reflecting the rich oak influence and the rum cask’s sugary sweetness.
Nose:
The nose is inviting and complex, with prominent tropical notes of pineapple and dark berries (blackberries, raspberries) layered over cedar and soft vanilla. There’s a sweet, almost molasses-like depth, complemented by the scent of caramelized sugar and hints of raisins. A faint spiced cake aroma adds richness, showcasing the full influence of the rum barrel and oak.
Palate:
On the palate, the tropical fruit notes of pineapple and dark berries continue to shine, backed by the deep sweetness of sugar cane and molasses. A luxurious layer of dark chocolate emerges, bringing balance to the sweeter elements. Gingerbread adds a spiced warmth, while the presence of caramelized sugar enhances the rich, dessert-like quality of the whisky. Subtle herbal notes (like dried mint or basil) add complexity and freshness.
Finish:
The finish is long and satisfying, with a spicy warmth that lingers pleasantly. Mint and coriander bring an aromatic, cooling sensation, while the finish retains the sweetness of molasses and caramelized sugar, paired with a touch of drying oak. The balance between the sweet rum influence and the spicier oak elements creates a beautifully complex and enduring aftertaste.
Overall:
This Texas Single Malt offers a sophisticated interplay of tropical sweetness, rich caramelized sugar, and herbal spice. The rum barrel finish is front and center with its molasses and caramelized sugar sweetness, while the oak provides a foundation of spice and warmth. It’s a bold, layered whisky that’s both indulgent and refreshing, with a finish that sticks around long after the last sip.
