What started as an accidental phone call to a distillery in Luling, Texas, led me to discover a…read moreremarkable hidden gem. KC Cantwell, the self-proclaimed "Chief Bottle Washer," introduced me to Edelbrand--a European-style fruit brandy with over 6,000 years of Austrian mountain tradition. The Austrian Connection In the Alpine slopes, Edelbrand production is strictly regulated by local government. Distillers receive low taxes but can only use water, yeast, and fruit--absolutely no sugar or added flavors. Violators face license revocation, heavy fines, or imprisonment, echoing Germany's Beer Purity Law philosophy. Founder Alexandra Cantwell traveled to Austria's Alpine region, where she discovered that in the town of Stanz alone, 52 distilleries operate--each guarding family secret recipes passed down through generations. These craft producers make only about 62 gallons annually, too limited for chain stores and typically served only in local restaurants. The Austrian tax system is fascinating: officials visit each distillery during fruit season to assess harvest volume and estimate liquor yield. Since taxes are based on fruit input rather than sales, producers are incentivized to optimize their processes for maximum yield. Just before Alexandra's departure, a local master discovered her true mission--bringing Edelbrand to Texas. Intrigued, he arranged for her to be interviewed by seven masters from another village. They believed Edelbrand-making is a cultivated ability, not merely a learned skill. After passing their tests, she trained intensively for two weeks, leaving not as an apprentice but as a certified master. The Texas Operation KC and Alexandra launched their Luling distillery in 2016, sourcing only pristine fruit from across the United States--no rot, bruises, or windfalls accepted. Their fermentation process occurs in temperature-controlled rooms around 65°F. While standard fermentation lasts 3-10 days, theirs extends 3-4 weeks using temperature-sensitive Austrian yeast with multiple monitoring alarms. Distillation happens in two German-built Schmidt stills with two runs: the stripping run quickly removes alcohol and water, while the spirit run precisely separates heads, hearts, and tails to capture the purest spirit. The chemistry is complex. The fermented mash contains water, alcohols, ethers, esters, acids, sugars, tannins, and sulfur compounds. The critical second distillation has three temperature phases. The "heads" contain toxic methanol that must be removed, but this temperature range also includes desirable esters and aldehydes contributing fruity and floral aromas. Masters taste the product constantly--every hour, then every 30 minutes, then every 5 minutes, finally every 30 seconds--to capture the "heart" that's methanol-free but retains aromatic compounds. The second cut separates "heart" from "tail," which contains heavier problematic compounds like higher alcohols, fatty acids, and sulfur compounds with rubbery or rotten-egg odors. Cutting too early loses flavor compounds that provide sweetness and fruity notes. Aging Innovation After distillation, the liquor ages 7-18 months depending on batch conditions. Here's where they innovate: traditional bourbon aging can lose 20% to "angel's share," unacceptable for high-end Edelbrand. Instead of barrels, they age in stainless steel tanks with lightly toasted American white oak spiral strips soaked in the liquor. The oak amount is carefully controlled to avoid overpowering the delicate fruit aromas. The Tasting Experience I sampled six varieties: clear apple, pear, and cherry, plus their oaked versions. The apple's aroma was so pronounced I could smell it three feet away when KC opened the half-empty bottle. The clear pear showed layered complexity, while the cherry didn't initially smell like cherry but revealed its flavor after a moment in the mouth. Among the oaked versions, the apple oak opens with oak and finishes with apple; the pear oak reverses this--pear first, then oak. The cherry oak achieves beautiful balance with both flavors present throughout. Worth the Investment I spent nearly $85 that afternoon--significant for a graduate student--but felt completely satisfied. The $22 tasting, $44 clear apple bottle, taxes, and $10 tip were well worth it. KC generously spent two hours with me, a single customer, sharing his knowledge and passion. This distillery represents something special: authentic European tradition transplanted to Texas soil, where Austrian mountain craft meets American innovation. If I return, I'm definitely bringing friends for the full tasting experience.

Go here! Me and 3…read moreother guys went here for a bachelor party evening. Kasey was absolutely unbelievable, his knowledge was amazing and the lesson he gave us was amazing. The drinks are spectacular. If you are into good Brandy, check this place out. It's cheap and you will learn a lot. Alexandra's ability as a master distiller is beyond amazing and you'll learn that.

Stopped in to Devil's River after a disappointing visit to The Library Cocktail Lounge. This was my…read moresecond visit to Devil's River but first time getting a drink. There was a musician playing on the stage in front of the distillery which is a nice touch for those who want to sit outside. We ordered old fashioned cocktails. I loved that they were made with block ice and even embossed the ice with the Devils River logo. The mixologist explained they don't do smoked old fashions due to fire hazard and location in a historic building. But he still made an engaging presentation in creating our cocktails. There was no food offered but they let us bring in voodoo donuts. The two gentlemen at the bar were very friendly and attentive and made our late night visit a special treat. I'd like to learn on my next visit to see if they do distillery tours. I'm sure you'll enjoy a trip to Devil's River.

Wandered by after a late lunch. Got the premium flight. Bourbon is good. Cast strength hurts a…read morelittle. Rye was...meh? Service was good but they need a couple more staff to keep up with cocktails, tastings, and close outs.

Like always this place doesn't disappoint! I have tried a strawberry daiquiri, Pina colada... and…read moretheir rum . But let's talk about the amazing food! I thought I was in my abuelita kitchen getting homemade food.

Best Distillery ever! The building itself holds so much history. And the owners have uniquely…read moredecorated it. The rum is wonderful. And food is amazing!

We did the tour, super cool. Their vodka is so super smooth…read more Our favorite was the peach whiskey and the prickly pear vodka. Phillip was a great host, we'd come back.

Came here with my wife to have a drink and sit with her until her and her girls went for a tasting…read more. They had live music going outside on a stage and food trucks lined up selling BBQ, tacos, and Asian food. I went inside to the saloon to grab a cocktail . Enjoyed a pour of their distillers select bottle in a rock and sat outside . It's a nice vibe and very good selection of aged bourbons. Will definitely return to experience the tasting for myself .

If you're a fan of gin, bocce ball, and rocking chairs on shaded front porches, then Seersucker…read moreDistillery is the place for you. We have visited the distillery three times now, and have been pleased with the atmosphere, the service, and the gin! Family owned, this distillery hits the mark with its self-guided tours (guided tours are available by reservation), friendly and knowledgeable mixologists (there's no delayed gratification here... drink while you tour), and casual outdoor spaces. So, take a leisurely drive outside the city, enjoy a refreshing Seersucker & Soda with lime, and throw out the jack for a friendly game of bocce ball. Cheers

Went here and the gates were closed. Couldn't find times posted anywhere. Found out they may be…read morepermanently closed.

I stopped in on one of my day trips and this place did not disappoint. The staff is so friendly and…read moreaccommodating. They make all locally sourced rum that's been on their family since 1884. This can't be bought in stores only here at the distillery. They are only open seasonally so make sure you come out and have a drink under some majestic oaks!

We love the 45min drive to High Hill for drinks and crawfish from flipping tails…read moreI assume this is a family operation because everyone is just so nice, and passionate about creating a nice small town atmosphere. Sunsets, music and some DELICIOUS rum cocktails. I bring a bottle of 1884 home with me every time.

A friend told me about this two weeks ago. I have been twice now. It is a tasting room and they…read moremake their money mostly selling bottles of their bourbon. I have tried most of their stuff and personally I think they are amazing. My favorite is the critical batch, followed by their Meticulum and white. Of course the owner and master distiller are great guys and very knowledgeable of the products. It has kind of a rustic ambiance feel to it where we sat and played cards while sipping on our drinks.

From one Submariner to another this place is great! Loved the wall dedicated to the Submarine…read moreforce, being able to share stories about old boats and enjoying a top notch barrel aged old fashioned. 100% will stop in again next time I am in the area.

It was a great experience. Jeff & Danza were great & knowledgeable guides on the tour of the…read moredistillery. We will definitely do tour again next time we are in the area!

I have been drinking this brown water for years! It is so good! Tour was great, private tasting…read moreworth it! great gift shop plus food and pours can be purchased. Everyone is very friendly, they support our Veterans. I been in oil/gas and chemicals refining for 20 years so if Garrison ever needs more distillation help I am open lol.

I've ordered online but have not received my products, had a problem getting the strawberry brandy…read moreis the only thing that has not gone well, on line it would not let me select it... they have been trying to get me to send them the link I used but I really don't have time to do there job.

Such a fun place. They will introduce you to the pleasures of brandy and also have a full bar…read more Great service & brandy!