Balcones True Blue 100 Corn Whisky

Bourbon drinkers in particular may gravitate towards this Texas craft whisky, which is made predominantly with a base of select barrels of blue corn whisky, as well as rye. Diluted down to 100 proof, it’s more approachable than full cask-strength whisky. It retains the depth and complexity of over-proof spirits, combined with the softer edges, supple textures and fuller fruitiness that slight dilution can bring. The nose shows ripe apricots and mango with cinnamon, singed sugar, cocoa and dried chilis, and there is deep oak and char on the palate, with black tea and salty baking chocolate, old leather, roasted corn and coffee. The finish leaves lingering dried cherries and blackberries on the tongue, followed by toasty bitter chocolate and pleasant oak tannins. It’s perfect as is, or with as much water as you prefer, and it won a Double Gold medal at the 2013 New York World Wine and Spirits Competition.