History

Ben Milam Distillery in Blanco, Texas opened in April 2017 and focuses on the production of bourbon and rye. The distillery is named after the Texas War for Independence figure Ben Milam, who died in the Battle of San Antonio in 1836; Milam County is named after him. The owner and founder is Marsha Milam, who throughout her career has been a driving force behind events such as the Austin Film Festival and KGSR's Unplugged at the Grove. Milam fell in love with bourbon after experiencing the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky and began distilling training in 2015. The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the opening was held on Texas Independence Day, March 2, in his honor. The distillery was established on two shaded hectares in Blanco and is located at 208 Carlie Lane next to the Buggy Barn Museum.

Products and Plans

Ben Milam produces bourbon and rye. The bourbon, which is 86-proof, is aged in new American oak barrels that are charred as tradition dictates. Rye whiskey is expected to roll out in the coming months, and line extensions for both bourbon and rye are planned for early 2018.

Ben Milam uses Blanco water, which according to the article shares many of the same properties as Kentucky water, including water that flows through limestone and has high calcium and magnesium content as well as low iron content. While corn and rye are often thought to originate from the Midwest, the water is an important part of the distilling philosophy.

Products/Whiskey Series

• Ben Milam Bourbon: 86-proof, aged in new American oak barrels. Available in the tasting room as well as at Shady Grove, County Line BBQ and select Austin retailers. Bottles are also available for purchase at select retailers.
• Ben Milam Rye Whiskey: To be released in the coming months. Line extensions for both bourbon and rye planned for early 2018.

Visits/Experiences

The tasting room is open Monday–Friday 10:00–17:00 and Saturday 13:00–18:00. Whiskey flights (including both bourbon and rye), cocktails and bottles can be purchased in the tasting room. The tasting room can accommodate about 20 guests indoors, and there are outdoor seating areas for larger groups. Distillery tours will debut in mid-May on Saturdays, and private tours and tastings are available by appointment now.

Philosophy

The owner and founder, Marsha Milam, wanted to bring the best of the bourbon tradition to Texas and opened Ben Milam Distillery in Blanco after being inspired by the Bourbon Trail. The distillery emphasizes bourbon and rye and uses Blanco water as an important part of the production process, which gives it important similarities to Kentucky conditions. The name honors Ben Milam's role in Texas history, and his lineage gives the distillery deep historical connections to the area.