Authentic Texan
By J. Carol Richards
Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery was founded in 2014 on fifteen acres in Spicewood, Texas. The name is attributed to their Siberian Grey Wolf, Luna, depicting the spirit and character of Iron Wolf, along with a quote on the website by Rudyard Kipling, “For the strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack.” Iron Wolf is running ahead of the pack among Texas distillers by winning multiple Gold Medals for their flagship butterscotch whiskey, Hotscotch, having been named the “Best Flavored Whiskey” at the 2024 Texas Whiskey Festival and Whiskies of the World. This global competition highlights the best products across whiskey categories. Hotscotch is a rich blend of butterscotch and whiskey, offering a smooth sweetness balanced by Texas heat from a proprietary infusion of fresh Texas peppers.
Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery crafts a diverse selection of spirits referred to by Glenda Watters, Vice-President of Marketing & Events, as “bold spirits with Texas attitude.” For example, Iron Hot is a unique and spicey cinnamon whiskey balanced with Texas peppers. The Giddy’UP is an original Texas horseradish-infused vodka perfect for Bloody Marys, oyster shooters, dirty martinis, and more. Iron Wolf’s vodka is 100% corn-based, seven times distilled, and charcoal-filtered for a subtle sweetness and a smooth finish. The Select Bourbon features a high-rye mash bill with over five years of aging in new oak barrels, delivering a bold and complex experience. Released in 2023, the Straight Rye Whiskey was created to produce a drinkable, pleasant on, the pallet Rye Whiskey that retains a spicy six-year full-bodied taste. Finally, the award-winning gin features diverse citrus flavors layered on a slightly muted juniper, cardamom, and coriander base, making it refreshing and approachable.
Come for the stunning Hill Country views and the unique craft spirits but stay for the music and activities. The expansive grounds are home to three music stages, two outdoors, one accommodating 4000 and another 300. The new indoor stage, the den, houses a full bar and lounge with a new craft cocktail menu. Bring your pets on a leash and experience the family-friendly atmosphere that includes a playground, Bocce Ball, Cornhole, and Bourbon Pong. On Friday from 4-7, meet Luna, the Siberian Grey Wolf, for pictures with the kids and “Yappy Hour with Luna.” Check the website for information on the exciting concerts and events every weekend at one of the hill country’s most unique distilleries. Open Friday from 4-7, Saturday 12-8, and Sunday 12-6.
