Bottoms Up

What's helped this Texas whiskey rack up honors around the globe

Lineage is Balcones Distilling's latest core offering.

Photo courtesy of Balcones Distilling

If you're a whiskey drinker, you've probably been hearing about the American single malt movement. Turns out, The Original Texas Whisky, distilled grain-to-glass right here in the Lone Star State, has been the one leading the way.

When Balcones Distilling won the Best in Glass Competition in Scotland in 2012 with its flagship Texas “1” Single Malt, it put America on the map by beating the best Scotch and Irish single malts in the world — on their home turf and in a blind taste test, no less.

Since then, Balcones has been continually innovating with a constant flow of award-winning Texas single malt expressions.

Its latest core offering, Lineage, has become the No. 1 selling American single malt in the country. The first American single malt to be named to Whisky Advocate's Top 20 global list last year, Lineage took the Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and was named Best in Class at Whiskies of the World this year.

As the first legitimate Texas-made whiskey on the market, Balcones has been blazing a trail since 2009, creating whiskey that reflects the authenticity of its location.

Devoted distillers, time-honed fermentation techniques, huge copper pot stills made specially by Forsyths of Scotland, and highly tailored oak casks with custom toast profiles are all components of Balcones' success.

The unique Texas weather plays a part, too. Our rapid temperature swings accelerate the complex maturation process, producing a mature whisky much more quickly than in cooler, less volatile climates like Kentucky or Scotland.

Finally, blenders personally smell and taste every single barrel of Balcones before bottling to ensure each pour is worthy of the accolades it's been racking up.

So take the experts' advice and get on board with the American single malt movement today by starting with the best: Balcones Distilling, The Original Texas Whisky.

Play it again, Houston, at this new hotspot

Houston's new piano bar hits a high note with 2-story patio & martinis

A man plays the piano while a cocktail sits next to him

Photo by Rebecca Wright

The Kennedy in the Montrose/River Oaks area recently opened its doors to those who love live music, libations, and refined entrees.

The Kennedy, a new restaurant and piano bar, aims to strike a harmonious blend of classic elegance and modern sophistication as it opens at 3210 W Dallas St., near the intersection of West Dallas Street and Waugh Drive.

Former frequenters of Muse and Emmaline will recognize The Kennedy’s location that sits where Montrose and River Oaks begin to blend. The more than 7,000-square-foot space has been transformed into an intimate retreat through a rich, moody color palette, dark wood paneling, and cozy seating vignettes.

A large, indoor bar is a focal point, while tall ceilings and expansive industrial windows lend a contemporary edge to the timeless design. Nearly 40 pieces of art — including original, classical, and contemporary works sourced from local galleries — adorn the walls, creating a space that’s as visually captivating as it is welcoming. With cooler temperatures finally on the horizon, Houstonians can enjoy the weather on The Kennedy’s two-story, amply-shaded patios.

“Bringing The Kennedy to life has been a labor of love over the last year, and I’m excited to share our warm and cozy restaurant and piano bar with our guests,” owner Andres Castro said in a statement. “We’ve gathered an incredible team of industry veterans that have made The Kennedy a world-class, day-to-late night destination that feels like an energetic extension of your home.”

Music is woven into the experience, with live performances by vocalists, pianists, and DJs on the menu. A baby grand piano serves as the heart of the entertainment, and a dual-sided fireplace doubles as a DJ booth, creating a vibrant late-night lounge ambiance.

Open Tuesday through Sunday, The Kennedy serves lunch on Fridays, and brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

Executive chef Adriana Maldonado, who honed her skills in New York City at spots like Javelina and Olives, brings her expertise to the kitchen. The menu, crafted in collaboration with Carniceria Prime Meat Market, features premium dishes such as a prime wagyu ribeye with romesco and chimichurri ($32) and a delicate wagyu ribeye tartare ($21). Elevated plates include truffle white wine lobster spaghetti ($30) with vodka sauce and yellow heirloom tomatoes, along with a playful twist on the mozzarella stick, coated in potato chips and topped with crème fraîche and caviar ($24).

The bar menu, with an extensive selection of handcrafted cocktails and mocktails, an impressive martini list, and international wines and champagnes, has something for every taste. Highlights include the mango ember ($16), a mezcal-based drink with mango purée, and the clarified millionaire margarita ($26) with Patron Cielo. Martini lovers can enjoy choices like the lychee martini ($16) and the soprano negroni with orange Campari foam ($18).

Casual attire is welcome during the day, but “Sunset Attire” is requested after 6 pm, encouraging visitors to dress up for the evening in keeping with the venue’s upscale vibe.

Photo by Rebecca Wright

The Kennedy in the Montrose/River Oaks area recently opened its doors to those who love live music, libations, and refined entrees.

“The Kennedy merges the sophistication and elegance of River Oaks with the energy and artistry of Montrose and delivers a one-of-a-kind experience,” Castro said.

This is the first concept of Castro’s newly-formed Ninety3 Hospitality Group. Castro has 12 years of hospitality experience, including time at nightclubs such as Spire and Clé, and six years in private aviation.