Each year, the Texas Whiskey Festival brings together the best of the best in Texas whiskey, and 2025 was no exception. Our annual competition is all about putting the whiskey first—blind judging, no labels, no hype, just flavor. I’m proud to share the results from this year’s competition, and let me tell you, Texas whiskey is stronger than ever.
Whether you’re a longtime whiskey fan or just getting into it, use this list as a guide to discover new favorites—but remember, your palate is the final judge. That’s what makes whiskey fun: the personal connection, the experience, the surprise when something new hits just right.
Let’s dive into the winners.
Best Bourbon in Texas
Texas continues to make some serious noise in the bourbon world, and these three absolutely delivered:
Gold - Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon
Silver - Garrison Brothers Balmorhea Straight Bourbon
Bronze - Milam and Greene Unabridged Bourbon Volume 3*
* A blend of Tennessee, Kentucky, and their own Texas-made whiskey.
Best Rye Whiskeys in Texas
Rye whiskey in Texas just keeps getting better. This year’s standouts had balance, spice, and personality:
Gold - Devils River 5-Year Straight Rye Whiskey
Silver - IronRoot Slight of Hand Rye*
*This is a blend of Texas-made and sourced Rye.
Bronze - 1693 Elevation Rye Whiskey
Best Malt Whiskeys in Texas
Texas malt whiskey is carving its own path, and these distilleries are leading the charge:
Gold - Ranger Creek Texas Landmark Single Malt
Silver - UnBendt Straight Malt Whiskey Bottled in Bond
Bronze - Spirit of Texas Pythagoras
Best Cask-Finished Whiskey
This is where things get experimental—and delicious. These finishes added extra dimension to already solid whiskey:
Gold - Giant Texas Distilling – Tejas Collaboration – Cigar Blend (Sweet Vermouth Finished)
Silver - Ranger Creek 306 Malt Whiskey Finished in Tequila Barrels
Bronze - Real Spirits Distilling Phoenixx Rising Batch 4
Best Light Whiskey in Texas
Light whiskey continues to have its moment—high proof, smooth, and full of character:
Gold - Austin Craft Spirits Austin 111
Silver - Texas Heartland Distilling Light Whiskey
Bronze - Andalusia Whiskey Co. Lighten Up, Jake!
Best Flavored Whiskey in Texas
These flavored whiskeys brought bold flavors with real balance:
Gold - Mossy Horn Pecan
Silver - Iron Wolf Ranch Iron Hot
Bronze - Andalusia Whiskey Co. Peach Whiskey
People’s Choice Awards
These winners were chosen by the most important judges—whiskey fans like you:
Gold – Mossy Horn Whiskey
Silver – Andalusia Whiskey Co.
Bronze – Milam & Greene Whiskey
A Word from Me
These results are a reflection of the growth, innovation, and passion in the Texas whiskey industry. Blind judging puts the whiskey first—it's all about taste. Use this list as a guide to explore new favorites, but trust your own palate above all. That's what whiskey is really about.
If You Missed the Festival—More Whiskey Awaits
The Festival may be over, but the celebration continues.
Frisco StrEATs Whiskey Tasting – May 3rd
We’ll be pouring whiskey at one of North Texas’ best food truck festivals. It’s a casual way to sample some Texas favorites while enjoying the full energy of a street party.
Whiskey Unexpected – May 3rd at Star Hill Ranch
The unexpected is calling you—yearning to tell you its story and help you create your own. This is an evening for those willing to step into something a little different. A handful of distilleries have offered to share their weird, rare, or non-existent whiskey with the select few at this seated event.
We’re also diving into the art of home blending. I’ll be walking guests through a hands-on experiment: from tasting a homemade blend to creating your own, you'll see just how incredible (or not) a blend can be.
That’s a wrap on another amazing year at the Texas Whiskey Festival. Thanks to every distillery, every fan, and every curious sipper who made it possible.
Here’s to discovering what’s next—one pour at a time.
Cheers,
Jake Clements
Co-Founder, Texas Whiskey Festival
