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Discover the Balcones Distilling Tour in Texas

Experience one of Texas’s most celebrated craft distilleries with a visit to Balcones Distilling in Waco. Known for pioneering American single malt and award-winning spirits, Balcones transformed a former industrial building into a state-of-the-art distillery where traditional methods meet bold Texas character. Visitors can watch grain-to-glass whiskey production unfold and enjoy expertly guided tastings.
Why it’s special: Balcones was a trailblazer in the craft whiskey movement, becoming internationally recognized for its innovative Texas whiskies. Touring the distillery offers an exclusive look at custom-built stills, grain roasting, barrel aging, and the creative process behind some of the most distinctive spirits in the U.S.

History/Story of Balcones Distilling

Founded in 2008 in an abandoned Waco welding shop, Balcones Distilling began with a mission to create world-class whiskies rooted in Texas ingredients and character. What started with handmade stills and small-scale experimentation quickly gained global acclaim, earning awards for whiskies like Baby Blue and Texas Single Malt. Continued growth led to the opening of a larger downtown Waco facility, where tradition, innovation, and craftsmanship remain at the heart of every bottle.

What You’ll See & Do

Tour the production floor and see grain milling, mashing, and fermentation
View the impressive copper stills custom-designed for Balcones
Learn how aging, barrels, and Texas heat shape the flavor of their whiskies
Explore the bottling and packaging areas
Finish with a guided tasting of signature spirits (21+)

Visiting Information

Hands-On Elements
Tours focus on close-up viewing of production steps. Tastings allow guests to explore aromas and flavors across the Balcones lineup.

Photo/Video Policy
Photography is permitted in most tour areas. Some restrictions may apply around active equipment and stills.

Souvenirs & Extras

Whiskey bottles, tasting glasses, and branded merchandise
Exclusive distillery-only releases
Gift items and limited editions

Pricing
Tours and tastings are paid experiences; rates vary by tour type.

Practical Info
Tours generally operate Thursday through Sunday between 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM, with select evening sessions. Reservations are required.

Nearby

Magnolia Market at the Silos — Waco’s most famous shopping destination
Waco Downtown Cultural District — Restaurants, boutiques, museums, and murals
Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum — A look into Texas law enforcement history

FAQs

1. Do tours include whiskey tastings?
Yes. Most tours end with a curated tasting flight featuring several Balcones spirits.

2. Are visitors allowed to see the barrel warehouse?
Barrel-aging areas are included in many tours, though access may vary by group size and safety considerations.

3. How long does the tour last?
Tours typically run 60–75 minutes, including the tasting portion.

4. Can I buy bottles after the tour?
Absolutely. The retail shop sells the full Balcones lineup, including distillery-exclusive releases.

5. Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers or minors?
Adults under 21 may join parts of the tour but cannot participate in tastings. Children are generally not permitted due to safety rules.