Forget what you think you know about light whiskey.
Often overlooked and loosely defined, the category has traditionally lacked identity. Austin Craft Spirits is changing that, going all in on a single mission: putting the craft into light whiskey.
Founded by three former Dell executives in Austin, Texas, the company approached spirits the way they approached technology with precision, innovation, and a desire to disrupt a sleepy sector. Instead of sourcing generic light whiskey, they build flavor intentionally from grain to glass.
Crafted with Texas in Mind
Austin Craft Spirits uses locally grown Texas grains, including non-GMO white corn, red winter wheat, Texas rye, and locally malted barley from Fort Worth (toasted slightly heavier for added nutty depth). Distillation takes place in a 40+ foot continuous steam-driven column still, producing a clean yet expressive distillate that highlights grain character without harsh byproducts.
Aging happens in-house in recycled American white oak barrels, largely from Texas craft bourbon makers, under the intense temperature swings of the Texas Hill Country. The team carefully calibrates aging to avoid overpowering oak, preserving balance and approachability.
The result? Light whiskey without the heaviness of bourbon that is versatile, refined, and complex.
The Lineup
Austin 101 – The flagship.
Made from white corn, red winter wheat, and barley, then bottled at 101 proof. Balanced between smoothness and punch with delicate oak and grain-forward character.
Austin 85 – The cocktail-friendly entry.
Lower proof, approachable, with butterscotch, vanilla, and a long smooth finish.
Austin 111 – The rye-style expression.
70% Texas rye and 30% white corn. Bolder spice, brown sugar sweetness, and bottled at 111 proof.
Austin 121 – The powerhouse.
Selected exceptional barrels aged through at least two Texas summers and bottled at 130+ proof. Darker, spicier, and intensely flavorful.
Austin Craft Spirits proves light whiskey doesn’t have to be generic or bland. With intentional mashbills, precise distillation, and Texas-driven aging, they’re redefining what the category can be, offering a lighter, more versatile alternative for bourbon drinkers looking to expand their flight.
Available throughout Texas and online in most states, this is one light whiskey brand worth watching. Click her for more information AUSTIN 101 LIGHT WHISKEY.
