Texas Legation, Batch No.2

in 1842 an unusual alliance was forged: Texas set up its legation, accredited to the Court of St Jame's, above Britain's oldest wine and spirits merchant, Berry Bros. & Rudd. It was an attempt to shore up the then-republic's independence against the United States; the Lone Star state has remained an ally of Britain, and of Berry Bros. & Rudd, ever since.

Texas Legation Bourbon - distilled for Berry Bros, & Rudd by Ironroot Republic - is the latest chapter in this intriguing alliance. While its name is a nod to historic diplomatic ties, the whiskey itself is something distinctly new. Created by brothers Robert and Jonathan Likarish, whose craft distillery was founded in 2013, and expertly blended by Berry Bros. & Rudd nose Doug McIvor, this bold bourbon is a true Texan spirit.

Deep and enticing, dusty sweet corn husks mingle with rich seasoned oak notes to provide an assertive, uplifting nose which is softened by honey and vibrant fruit.

The palate expands gloriously with a background sour mash and chalky hit doused by layers of honey and dark treacle. Lingering and giving this is a masterpiece of balance, complexity, texture and structure.