Dallas Distilleries (Herman Marshall)

The guys at Dallas Distilleries (Herman Beckley and Marshall Louis) taught us how to drink whiskey.  Being new to the game, we were researching local distilleries and discovered there weren't many in our area.  At the time, they were located in an industrial building in Rowlett.  We visited the site for a Saturday tour, and questioned whether we had the right spot.  There were no signs indicating it was a distillery, but once inside, we were greeted warmly and promptly given a tasting glass.  

The tour started with the history behind Herman Marshall Whiskeys, and how it started at a coffee shop.  Already sounds like a good Texas story, right?  The guys are friendly, casual, and knowledgeable.  And their products are delicious.  

The tasting started with a lesson in what makes bourbon, bourbon.  Then he went through how to taste all it has to offer.  Starting with the aroma of a neat pour, tasting that, and then covering the glass to warm it a little.  Getting another whiff through the nose of the warmed sample, really brings out a different character.  Then adding a couple of drops of water adds yet another layer of complexity.  And finally adding an ice cube rounds out the flavor profile.  The other tip he gave, which we have repeated to lots of others, is how to lessen the burn after a sip.  As soon as you swallow, blow some air out of your mouth slowly.  Voila!  It really works.  

Their Small Batch Bourbon really is a delicious beverage.  It is a smooth taste, with a long finish.  Hints of spices as well as vanilla make this a great mixer as well as a stand alone.  However, the one we fell in love with was a collaboration with Lakewood Brewing.  The Temptress Single Malt Whiskey is a treasure.  It presents with a rich aroma of caramel, and tastes of malt and coffee, much like the beer.  Granted it probably helps that I love the many varieties of the Lakewood Temptress, but we each have an unopened bottle that we are keeping for awhile.  Because this was a limited production, it will be difficult to find.  You might possibly find in a store, or a bar, but would be lucky.  

From the tasting room, we ventured to the stills and barrels with our guide.  After seeing the fermentation tanks, we were allowed a sampling of the high-proof distillate (aka moonshine) right from the still.  I would have to be pretty desperate to make that a drink of choice.  From there we were able to taste a sample straight from the barrel.  As with anything else, the purest form you can get of something is usually the best.  The barrel tasting did not disappoint.  

They also offer a blended whiskey, and a rye.  And I believe were working on another brewery collaboration.  Would be anxious to try that one out.  

Herman Marshall Whiskeys are easily found in stores, restaurants and bars in this area.  But if you get a chance to visit the distillery in person, you will probably pick up a new thought or tip, and maybe find a new daily drinker.  

Cheers, y'all!