Bone Spirits LLC — Local services in Smithville

Our host explained the process by which the local corn (theirs is one of only 8 in Texas to produce their own alcohol rather than purchasing stock alcohol from Big Ag) was mashed, pot distilled, and fractionated in a distillation column to achieve alcohols of various concentration and consistency (great food science lessons here). We tasted their vodka, gin and barrel-aged gin, corn whiskey, bourbon, and aquavit in their air-conditioned tasting room on the second floor. The botanicals are their own unique blend and extremely locally sourced (juniper berries sourced from his own yard). Normally I don't like gin, but this one doesn't have that typical astringent flavor of the national brands. The caroway, dill, and cardamom in their aquavit is also done with a light touch and leaves you wanting a reuben sandwich. All their bourbon is aged in fresh flamed white oak barrels in ambient temperature, and spent barrels are used for the dirty gin. Well worth your stop in Smithville. Their products are also available in...

The best thing about this distillery is the care the owner takes with crafting his spirits. He is very hands-on with his business and carefully chooses his barrels, bottles and the farms from which he sources grains....and thus his motto, "farm to bottle" seems well deserved. In my opinion this distillery will be known best for wonderful gins, including the flagship Moody June Gin. The Bone Bourbon is also quite stellar.

After you finish the free sampling, choose your favorite spirit and get one (or two) of the delicious cocktails....enjoy and relax. The tasting room is...

The distillery is a great place to visit. Especially the Tasting Room. In the Tasting Room, you have a chance to sample all of the different spirits they offer. It was fun learning about the different liquors and how they are made. And they taste great. Smoothest tequila shot I've had in a long time. I will be...