Balcones whiskey is owned by a family-owned company based in Waco, Texas. The company was founded by Chip Tate in 2008, who had a passion for crafting high-quality, artisanal whiskey. Chip Tate's vision and dedication to his craft quickly gained recognition and acclaim in the whiskey industry.
However, in 2014, there was a dispute between Chip Tate and the investors of Balcones, leading to a legal battle for control of the company. This conflict resulted in Chip Tate being forced out of Balcones, and the ownership of the distillery changed hands.
In 2016, it was announced that Balcones had been acquired by a private investment group led by the family of Greg Allen, who became the new owner of the distillery. This acquisition provided Balcones with the financial stability and resources needed to continue producing their distinctive and highly regarded whiskeys.
Under the new ownership, Balcones has continued to thrive and expand its range of whiskey offerings. They have remained committed to their original philosophy of using traditional distilling methods and locally sourced ingredients to create unique and flavorful spirits.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and evaluate Balcones whiskey on several occasions. The craftsmanship and attention to detail that go into their production are evident in the complexity and depth of flavors present in their whiskeys.
Balcones offers a diverse range of expressions, including their flagship Texas Single Malt, which showcases the rich and robust flavors of malted barley, and their Baby Blue corn whiskey, made from roasted heirloom blue corn. Each expression has its own distinct character and showcases the creativity and expertise of the distillers.
One aspect that sets Balcones apart is their commitment to experimentation and innovation. They have released limited edition whiskeys that have been aged in unique casks, such as rum barrels or casks previously used for peated Scotch whisky. These experiments result in whiskeys with intriguing flavor profiles that push the boundaries of traditional whiskey production.
Balcones whiskey is currently owned by a private investment group led by the family of Greg Allen. Despite the ownership change, Balcones has remained true to its roots, continuing to produce exceptional whiskeys that showcase the passion and skill of their distillers.