Swift Single Malt Texas Whiskey

This spirit tastes like a Speyside scotch, and indeed, the producer's website confirms that was their objective. It also bears a curious resemblance to a vibrant Amber ale or IPA, which is unusual for whiskies. This particular spirit reminds me somewhat of a certain other brand in that it's not what I anticipated and it possesses a slightly nutty, slick quality. It's a very fruity spirit without being overly sweet or dominated by cherry. There's a pleasant touch of sharp wood that provides a tartness that complements the fruit. Specifically, there are discernible notes of orange and Fuji apple. Honey, cinnamon, and vanilla are also present, along with a minuscule amount of smoke and some slickness that blends with occasional almond undertones to impart a somewhat smooth texture. The absence of peat, minerals, salt, or other components makes this a revitalizing drink. The alcohol flavor is more apparent because the other elements are subdued, but it doesn't leave any odd aftertaste. The flavor is balanced and develops somewhat, leading to a finish characterized by honey and marmalade (and it tastes quite good). Overall, this is an intriguing and pleasing spirit, despite its relative youth. The elevated cost is somewhat annoying considering the spirit's age. At this price, one must truly value distinctive spirits for it to be a worthwhile purchase. I'm eager to witness the evolution of this producer's spirit as they extend the aging period and refine the recipe. There's a pleasing spiciness that evokes a certain brand's offering, but it's gentler here. It has many subtle components but genuinely requires more time to mature into a stronger flavor profile. All the existing flavors are accurate, but they need further development. Thankfully, the alcohol isn't overpowering. Notes of barley, mild orange, and cinnamon are present. It's quite smooth, particularly given its alcohol by volume. I'd be delighted to sample this after it has aged a bit longer. It's akin to a young Scotch with characteristics of bourbon, yet it possesses some depth and excellent flavors. On a less critical note, the visual presentation of the spirit is understated but skillfully done. The color similarity between the fox on the label and the spirit itself is fascinating, and the label is rich with details, such as letters partially concealed by the fox's tail, which contribute to a sense of refinement. The wooden cap on the cork is also a nice detail. This is a smooth and invigorating spirit, but the alcohol is noticeable, much like in vodka. The crucial difference is the abundance of subtle depth here. I wish this spirit had been aged longer so that the beautiful characteristics from the aging process would have overshadowed the common alcohol notes. The flavors include orange, cinnamon, ginger, and a touch of caramel, all present. It is both refreshing and thick, but I wish it were less watery.

Update: I acquired a new bottle, and I can confidently say it's far more impressive than my first. The nose is now more floral, reminiscent of honeysuckle. I also detect lemon and black tea, along with a pleasant tannic quality on the palate. It's still a young spirit, so it's a bit hot, vibrant, and effervescent. This is a well-crafted whiskey, and it was worth trying again. My original notes are below. (Original notes follow) I really wanted to enjoy this, but ultimately, it wasn't worth the cost. I'm open to the possibility that my initial bottle was flawed, but there was a persistent off-flavor throughout. I suspect it was due to cask selection, as the spirit itself was malty and flavorful, but that peculiar undertone was present. I'll try this again at a later time, as I appreciate supporting Texas distillers. For comparison, this cost $50 in College Station.

This establishment is about thirty minutes away, so supporting a local business is my intention. Much to appreciate here with the small enterprise model and couple running it. The whiskey itself is not bad, but it's very immature. Quite young with new make notes throughout the profile. Aromas of sliced apple and pear with youthful malt and barrel. Juicy fruit gum after prolonged chewing. The palate is all new make malt tinged with some fruit and new barrel. Perhaps some peach tea and shrink wrap emerge with time. A dry finish with the oak at the forefront, followed by distant fruity malt. Comes across as underdeveloped and rushed to bottling. That said, the product's quality is apparent, and with extended aging, it could be a winner. Considering what it is and its price point, it's a challenging purchase.......71/100......... won't buy again.

I acquired it on sale for $35 some time ago. I'm finding it difficult to derive any pleasure from it. It's possible I received a flawed bottle or batch, as six other individuals who tried it shared similar negative opinions. I'd like to support another Texas distiller, but I question if the Texas climate is suitable for a fine single malt, which typically requires extended maturation in cool conditions to avoid excessive wood influence. The young age and warm climate are significant drawbacks for me. I might visit the distillery at some point to sample their offerings again, but until then, I won't be purchasing another bottle as I'm struggling to find a use for the one I currently possess.

Sweet and well-balanced, though a little watery. I'm satisfied with the product and eager to see future releases from this distillery. Nose: Subtle, sweet, with notes of apricot and a significant amount of rubbing alcohol. Taste: Sweet, reminiscent of a Tootsie Roll. That's the primary flavor. The sherry influence is pleasant and lingers, but the strong Tootsie Roll taste is overpowering. There's also oaky vanilla present. Finish: Fades quickly, leaving a lingering chocolate essence, much like a Tootsie Roll. I wouldn't be surprised if they incorporated melted Tootsie Rolls into its production.

I adored this whisky from the first sip! I concur that it is young and will undoubtedly improve. The nose is a delightful bloom of sweetness, an aroma of malted barley, almost like perfume! The taste is bright, with a brief alcohol sharpness on the tongue that melts into a fruity sweetness, accented by vanilla and a tangy, almost citrusy burst. The finish is brief, inviting another taste to re-experience this fresh Malt Whisky.