Ironroot Republic has been distilling whiskey (and brandy, gin, vodka, and more) in Texas for 10 years now, and while it produces a bevy of bottlings under its own label, it also has a second label which includes whiskeys made by blending MGP stock with its own production, calling it Saints Alley.

There are two Saints Alley whiskeys available at present, and we got both to experience. Thoughts follow.

Saints Alley The Herald Bourbon Tasting Notes

A blend of MGP high-rye bourbon with Ironroot’s own heirloom corn Texas bourbon, finished in Armagnac casks. Quite unexpected and surprising, and quite austere on the nose. There’s a classic punch of Texas whiskey on the nose, with aromas of black pepper, dried rosemary, and a heavy lumberyard character dominating. Almost completely closed off on the nose, I tucked into the palate expecting a similarly stoic experience, only to find this whiskey had all its surprises hidden under the surface of the liquid. On the tongue, the whiskey comes immediately to life, showcasing the intense fruit notes you expect from the brandy finishing, featuring spiced raisins and prunes alongside dried citrus peel and a surprising note of peach preservers. There’s plenty of polished wood here, then hints of corn chips later in the game. The dusty lumberyard notes remain in effect but are appropriately tempered by the reemergence of baking spice and some warming red pepper elements on the finish. It’s quite a ride and one which will challenge expectations from bourbon traditionalists. 107 proof. B+ / $60

Saints Alley The Nobleman Rye Tasting Notes

A special edition blend of MGP rye (95% rye/5% barley) and Ironroot’s own Texas rye (60% rye/40% corn), finished in Tokaji wine barrels. That burly, woody Texasness is still in effect here, but unlike The Herald, this whiskey is more engaged on the nose, showing off the impact of that sweet Tokaji barrel next to elements of fresh-cut wood, roast beef, and some green herbs. It’s sweet and fruity but still rather tight, owing largely to that not insubstantial 53.5% abv. Once again, the palate takes all of this and runs with it, pouring on all the fruit you’d expect to find in a Tokaji-finished offering. Golden raisins, mandarin oranges, and sweeter notes of almond nougat are all in effect here — though everything is tempered by waves of spicy rye grain on top. Unlike the more straight-ahead Herald, there’s more nuance here, with the mead-like honey of the Tokaji coming into focus, followed by a hint of saffron, then vaguer notes of sesame and balsa wood. Sweet and savory and back again. Solid stuff. 107 proof. A- / $70

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