The Last Call

Waterloo Barrel Aged Gin Review.      I received this spirit as a review sample from Waterloo Gin,  linked here . It is important to clarify this did not impact the ratings of this review.      There’s something deeply satisfying about a distillery that takes a familiar spirit and reshapes it into something entirely its own. Waterloo Gin, based out of Texas, has done just that with their Barrel-Aged Gin—an experiment that brings together the floral brightness of gin with the smooth, warm depth of oak aging. This bottle comes in at 47% ABV and is aged for at least two years. Full disclosure—Waterloo was kind enough to send this bottle over for review, but rest assured, my thoughts are entirely my own.      For me, gin has always held a special place. I’ve been a fan long before I ever sat in front of a camera with a tasting glass, and barrel-aged gins in particular have always intrigued me. They’re a rare breed on most shelves, bridging t...

Waterloo Prickly Pear & Rose Gin Review.       I received this spirit as a review sample from Waterloo Gin,  linked here . It is important to clarify this did not impact the ratings of this review.      Waterloo Gin has been making waves lately with a complete rebranding that feels both confident and refreshing. Out of Texas, they’re bringing local pride to every pour, using regional ingredients and a transparent production process that’s rare to see. Their Prickly Pear & Rose Gin is the latest addition to their lineup and immediately eye-catching with its striking, bubblegum-pink hue. It’s a bottle that looks every bit as beautiful as it tastes.      Waterloo’s process is all about transparency and craftsmanship. Their base spirit starts from corn and runs through a vapor chamber distillation, allowing each botanical to shine without becoming overbearing. What really sets them apart is the way they list every single botanic...

 Waterloo Gin No. 9 Gin Review.      I received this spirit as a review sample from Waterloo Gin,  linked here . It is important to clarify this did not impact the ratings of this review.      Every so often, a distillery steps forward and reminds you why gin deserves just as much reverence as whiskey. Waterloo Gin, out of Texas, does exactly that with their No. 9 expression. Transparent, elegant, and rooted in craftsmanship, this gin not only highlights local botanicals but showcases a distillation process built on precision and respect for flavor. Waterloo was kind enough to send over a bottle for review, and as a longtime fan of gin, I was eager to dive in and see if this could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the best.      Waterloo Gin No. 9 is crafted using a vapor chamber distillation process where the vapor passes through nine botanicals before condensing. Those botanicals include lavender, juniper, grapefruit, pecan,...

 Milam & Greene Provisions Blend Bourbon Whiskeys Review.      I received this spirit as a review sample from Milam & Greene, linked here . It is important to clarify this did not impact the ratings of this review.      Tonight’s pour comes from Milam & Greene, a distillery that has quickly gained a reputation for doing things differently. Heather Greene and her team have been blending Kentucky straight bourbon with Texas pot still whiskey, crafting something unique that bridges two very different traditions. When I first heard about the Provisions Blend, I was intrigued, especially since it promised to bring a budget-friendly option to the shelf without sacrificing quality. The commemorative first-release bottle design is elegant without being flashy, a welcome sight on any shelf.      The Provisions combines Kentucky bourbon and Texas pot still bourbon, both aged in standard 53-gallon barrels, no shortcuts with small casks ...

 Guardian Angel Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in a Toasted Cask Review.      I received this spirit as a review sample from Cattle Drive Bourbon/Nola Distillery, linked here . It is important to clarify this did not impact the ratings of this review.      I enjoy Texas whiskey. I know it is can be a dividing area for some, but personally I love the dark, oaky, and rich profile they can bring. Now, to be honest, once I saw someone taking a Texas profile and finishing it in a toasted cask, it caught my attention for sure. Typically for me a toasted cask brings out some sweeter, lighter flavors. So my mind says this could be a beautiful marriage  of bold and sweet.      Now, due to the nature of the name Guardian Angel, I wanted to share that story.  It honors an F-16 fighter pilot who flew rescue missions to support U.S. Marines. He did this to such a degree he was given the title of "Guardian Angel." In fact, they’...