TX Barrel Proof Bourbon
Bigger, Bolder, and Better. The Texas way
In the world of bourbon, everything’s bigger in Texas—and my love for TX Bourbon is no exception. From their blended whiskey to this bold barrel-proof offering, TX has a way of capturing the spirit of the Lone Star State in every bottle. If you haven’t yet, you know my love for this brand, so be sure to check out my review of their blended whiskey, where I dive into why I love this brand so much. Spoiler alert: it’s all about the perfect mix of craftsmanship, quality, unmistakable Texas charm, and Southern hospitality.
Today, though, we’re focusing on TX Straight Bourbon Barrel Proof, a bottle that promises to bring the Texas heat straight to your glass. As always, I sent the old man posse a bunch of samples, and let's just say things got as rowdy as a Saturday night in those Fort Worth stockyards.
A Quick History Lesson: How TX Bourbon Lassoed Our Hearts
TX Bourbon hails from the Firestone & Robertson Distilling Co. in Fort Worth, Texas. Founded in 2010, this distillery quickly made a name for itself with its smooth yet complex spirits. Unfortunately, in 2019, Pernod Ricard, a Paris-based spirits and wine producer, acquired the TX whiskey brand. Now, TX Barrel Proof, that’s where the magic really happens. I don't mind the blended whiskey offering, but the uncut, unfiltered, and full of all the good stuff, this bourbon is for those who want to taste Texas in every sip.
Bottle Design: Western Wear Meets Whiskey
Before we even get to the pour, let's take a moment to appreciate the bottle. It’s as if John Wayne himself designed it. The bottle is chunky, sturdy, and capped with a leather topper made from boot scraps (yes, you read that right). Each cap is unique, crafted from leather that has lived a life—think vintage cowboy boots, saddles, or chaps—so you know it’s seen some things. It’s a nod to Texas's rugged, hardworking spirit and adds a personal touch you won’t find in your average bottle. It's the kind of bottle that makes you feel like you’re holding something significant, something worth savoring. And in Texas, where style matters almost as much as substance, this bottle is a perfect match.
The Pour: Deep, Dark, and Dangerous
Pouring TX Barrel Proof into a glass feels like you’re unleashing a wild stallion. The liquid is a deep amber, with a richness that suggests you’re in for a treat—or a tussle—or both. Watching it swirl in the glass, I half-expected it to kick up some dust.
The Nose: Texas Heat with a Side of Sweet
As you take a whiff, you’re hit with a wave of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of oak. But it’s not all sweet—there’s a spicy, almost peppery kick that reminds you this bourbon means business. It's like a cowboy with a heart of gold but who isn’t afraid to throw down when necessary.
The Palate: Saddle Up, Partner
The first sip, and you’re in for a ride. TX Barrel Proof comes in hot, with bold flavors of caramel, dark chocolate, and a bit of toasted pecan (and that’s puh-kaan, not pee-can for you non-Texans). But then, just as you think you’ve got it figured out, it hits you with a wave of spice—cinnamon, clove, and a hint of black pepper. It’s a complex dance of flavors that will have you reaching for another sip before you finish the first.
The Finish: Long, Warm, and Ready for More
The finish on this bourbon is like a Texas sunset—long, warm, and leaving you wanting more. The spice lingers, but it’s balanced out by a sweet, almost buttery smoothness. It’s the kind of finish that’ll make you sit back, tip your hat, and appreciate the finer things in life under any sunset.
Final Thoughts: Two Thumbs Up from the Old Man Posse
After the samples were exhausted, it was clear that TX Barrel Proof was a hit. My father-in-law gave it a hard thumbs up, and the rest of the old man posse wasn’t far behind. They’ve always had a soft spot for TX offerings, especially Frank the Tank, and this one didn’t disappoint them. If you’re looking for a bourbon that brings the heat, the flavor, and a little bit of Texas charm, this is the bottle for you. As for me? I’ll be keeping this one in the rotation. After all, you don’t mess with Texas—or its bourbon.
Cheers to a dram good time! 🥃✨
The Details:
Proof: 118.8 • Mashbill: 74% Corn • 14% Winter Wheat • 12% Barley • Aged: 4yrs •Price: $50
Brown Water Rating Scale:
Nose: 4 • Palate: 4 • Finish: 5 • Uniqueness: 3 • Value: 4 • Overall: 4.0
This is a 5-point scale based on my own preferences. This was also tested by my father-in-law, another whiskey lover. 