Thirsty? You’re in the right city. Known for its rich music scene, eclectic culture, and endless array of festivals, Austin has also become a haven for Austin distilleries and craft brewers. With over 80 craft breweries and distilleries across Central Texas, Austin offers a drink for every palate—from local gin to award-winning tequila. For newcomers moving to Austin or those relocating to Austin, this vibrant scene provides a perfect blend of both local heritage and global reach.
If you’re ready to explore the finest spirits that Austin has to offer, keep reading. Whether you prefer whiskey, vodka, tequila, or gin, the city’s distilleries promise unique experiences, a strong sense of community, and plenty of reasons to raise your glass.
Exploring 10 Austin Distilleries
1. Tito’s Handmade Vodka: A Global Favorite, Austin-Born
No list of Austin distilleries is complete without mentioning Tito’s Handmade Vodka. Tito’s is one of the most well-known brands to emerge from Austin, and its popularity spans across the globe. Born from the idea of making vodka with the utmost care and precision, Tito’s is crafted from corn and distilled six times for purity.
As a newcomer to Austin, you can feel proud that Tito’s is a local success story. While it’s available worldwide, you can still visit the Love, Tito’s storefront downtown to grab some branded merchandise or sip on a cocktail made with the smooth vodka. Plus, Tito’s commitment to giving back is noteworthy with its “Vodka for Dog People” campaign, which supports animal rescue initiatives.
For those living in Austin or relocating to Austin, Tito’s is more than just a drink—it’s a symbol of local pride and community spirit.
2. Tequila 512: Bringing Mexico’s Heart to Austin
If tequila is your spirit of choice, Tequila 512 should be on your radar. This gold-medal-winning tequila has earned recognition not only locally but nationally, with its rich flavor and smooth finish. While Tequila 512 is distilled in Mexico, its Austin roots are undeniable, offering an authentic taste of Mexico blended with the soul of Texas.
Awarded the title of Austin’s Favorite Tequila and winner of a prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition Gold Medal, Tequila 512 is the perfect addition to any bar.
For those moving to Austin, this tequila is more than just a drink—it’s a story of craftsmanship, quality, and pride.
3. Still Austin Whiskey Co.: A Local Whiskey Pioneer
Whiskey lovers will appreciate the history and craft behind Still Austin Whiskey Co., the first whiskey distillery in the city since Prohibition. Situated in the heart of Austin, this distillery uses 100% Texas ingredients to create a variety of whiskeys, including bourbon, rye, and single malt.
As part of the growing craft distillery scene in Austin, Still Austin’s “grain to glass” process means that everything—from milling and mashing to distilling and bottling—is done in-house. If you’re relocating to Austin and seeking a distillery that combines passion, tradition, and local flavors, Still Austin Whiskey Co. is a must-visit.
4. Dripping Springs Distilling: The Taste of the Texas Hill Country
Located just outside of Austin, Dripping Springs Distilling is one of the best-known local distilleries in the area. Famous for its flagship Dripping Springs Vodka, the distillery also produces gins, flavored vodkas, and a highly praised 1876 Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
A trip to Dripping Springs Distilling offers more than just top-tier spirits—it’s an experience. Set on ten picturesque acres in the Texas Hill Country, the distillery also features a food menu and serves up a delicious weekend brunch.
For newcomers to Austin, Dripping Springs Distilling offers the perfect opportunity to explore Austin’s close-knit distilling scene while enjoying the natural beauty of Central Texas.
5. Treaty Oak Distilling: Austin’s Spirit of Resilience
Named after the legendary Treaty Oak tree in Austin, which survived a poisoning attempt in 1989, Treaty Oak Distilling is a symbol of resilience and perseverance. The distillery’s offerings include award-winning spirits like Waterloo Gin, Treaty Oak Rum, and Red Handed Bourbon Whiskey.
Whether you enjoy rum, gin, whiskey, or vodka, Treaty Oak Distilling is an Austin staple for all spirit lovers. For those relocating to Austin, this distillery encapsulates the city’s creative spirit and passion for exceptional craftsmanship.
6. Deep Eddy Vodka: A Texas Original
One of the most beloved vodka brands in Texas, Deep Eddy Vodka distills its spirits using pure Texas water and local ingredients. Created in Austin in 2010, Deep Eddy is best known for its distinctive sweet tea vodka, a unique blend of southern-style tea and vodka that has quickly become a favorite of Texans.
With a clean, smooth finish, Deep Eddy Vodka is the perfect base for cocktails. For newcomers moving to Austin, it’s a great way to celebrate the spirit of the Lone Star State and experience the local love for homegrown brands.
7. Dulce Vida Organic Tequila: A Taste of Pure Agave
Dulce Vida Organic Tequila may not be made in Austin, but its headquarters are located here, making it an essential part of the local distillery scene. This 100-proof, 100% organic tequila is distilled from the finest agave plants in Mexico and has been winning awards since its launch.
Añejo and Reposado versions of Dulce Vida are aged in whiskey barrels, creating a unique complexity that sets it apart from other tequilas. If you’re a tequila enthusiast and a newcomer relocating to Austin, Dulce Vida is a must-try spirit that represents Austin’s innovative take on classic flavors.
8. Real Ale Brewing Co. Spirits: A Double Threat for Craft Lovers
Although best known for its craft beers, Real Ale Brewing Co. in Blanco also distills some seriously impressive spirits. Their offerings include gin, whiskey, and single-barrel whiskey. Available exclusively at the Real Ale taproom, this distillery offers a unique tasting experience for visitors, making it a fantastic road trip destination for spirit lovers.
For those new to the Austin area, Real Ale Brewing Co. is a great example of the city’s creative spirit, where beer and spirits meet to offer unparalleled local flavors.
9. Goodnight Loving Vodka: A Father-Son Distillery With a Unique Twist
Handcrafted in Austin, Goodnight Loving Vodka is made with artesian spring water that the University of Texas has confirmed hasn’t seen sunlight in over 1,000 years. This pristine water gives the vodka a unique character that sets it apart from other brands.
Although Goodnight Loving doesn’t have a tasting room, you can find this remarkable vodka at liquor stores throughout Central Texas. For newcomers to Austin, it’s a great local product to seek out and appreciate.
10. Desert Door Distillery: Texas’ Unique Sotol Spirit
Located in nearby Driftwood, Desert Door Distillery is one of the few distilleries in Texas to create sotol, a spirit made from the desert spoon plant native to the region. Sotol is a unique alternative to tequila, offering a smooth yet bold flavor that’s perfect for sipping or mixing into cocktails.
For those looking to experience something new and different in the Austin area, Desert Door Distillery is a must-visit.
Texas Liquor Laws to Know
Before embarking on your distillery tour in Austin, it’s important to be aware of Texas liquor laws. You must be at least 21 years old to purchase or consume alcohol, and hard liquor is sold only at designated liquor stores. Note that liquor stores are closed on Sundays, but beer and wine can be purchased from noon to midnight on Sundays. On other days, liquor stores close by 9:00 p.m., while bars and restaurants can serve alcoholic beverages until 2:00 a.m.
Discover Austin’s Distilling Scene
For newcomers to Austin, relocating to Austin, or anyone looking to explore the city’s vibrant distillery culture, there’s no shortage of options. Whether you enjoy gin, whiskey, tequila, or vodka, Austin’s distilleries provide exceptional spirits crafted with pride and passion. So, take a trip to these local favorites and savor the flavors of Austin’s ever-growing distillery scene. Cheers!
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