Yellow Rose Distilling

History of Yellow Rose Distilling

Yellow Rose Distilling proudly stands as Houston’s very first legal whiskey distillery, making its mark in the world of spirits with a commitment to quality, innovation, and a nod to tradition.

Founded with a passion for crafting fine whiskey, Yellow Rose specializes in a variety of unique blends and flavors, appealing to a wide range of palates.

Founding and Early History

Yellow Rose Distilling officially opened its doors in 2010. The distillery was co-founded by Ryan Baird, Troy Smith, and Randy Whitaker, a trio who shared a profound passion for fine whiskey and a dream to bring a distinctive distilling tradition to the heart of Texas.

Products and Offerings

Yellow Rose Distilling has carved out a niche in the whiskey market by offering a diverse range of products. Some of the notable types of whiskey it offers include:

• Yellow Rose Outlaw Bourbon: Known for its bold and full-bodied flavor, this bourbon breaks the traditional mold, setting a new standard for American whiskey with its daring character.

• Yellow Rose Premium American Whiskey: This blend offers a smoother, more refined taste, catering to those who prefer a subtle complexity in their sip.

• Yellow Rose Rye Whiskey: A nod to the traditional American Rye, this variant is known for its spicy, fruity flavor, appealing to those who enjoy a whiskey with a robust character.

• Yellow Rose Blended Whiskey: This blend is a testament to the art of distilling, offering a harmonious mix of flavors, perfect for those who appreciate a well-rounded whiskey experience.

Awards Won by Yellow Rose Distilling

• Award for Outlaw Bourbon: In 2020, Yellow Rose Distilling’s Outlaw Bourbon was awarded a Bronze Medal in the Bourbon category by the American Distilling Institute, showcasing the product’s excellence as a Certified Craft Distilled Spirit​​.

• Additional Industry Accolades: The distillery has also been recognized by the American Distilling Institute and the San Francisco Artisan Spirits for its outstanding products, further solidifying its reputation in the competitive whiskey market​​.

Yellow Rose Distilling Tour Information and Experience

Tour Experience at Yellow Rose Distilling

• Public & Private Tours: Yellow Rose Distilling welcomes visitors for both public and private tours. The tours and tastings are available from Tuesday to Saturday, with each tour starting every hour. The last tour of the day is scheduled one hour before closing.

• Operating Hours:
  • Tuesday – Wednesday: 2 PM – 8 PM (last tour at 7 PM)
  • Thursday: 2 PM – 10 PM (last tour at 9 PM)
  • Friday – Saturday: 12 PM – 8 PM (last tour at 7 PM)
  • Note: Hours may vary during holidays or special distillery events.

• Private Tour Bookings: For those interested in a more personalized experience, private distillery tours can be arranged by contacting the Experience Manager at (832) 717-2812 Ext 201.

• Tour & Tastings Cost: The cost for tours and tastings is $27.50 per person. Bookings can be made using a form provided on the website, and payment is collected at the distillery prior to the start of the tour.

Additional Information

• Crafting Process: Yellow Rose Distilling takes pride in its hard work and dedication to crafting the best whiskey in the world. The local weather and humidity of Houston are believed to contribute unique flavors to their whiskey, setting it apart from others.

• Events: The distillery also hosts events such as “Bourbon and Bingo” on Tuesdays from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, adding a social and entertaining aspect to the distillery experience.

• Products and Legacy: As a pioneer in Houston’s whiskey scene, Yellow Rose specializes in handmade, blended, and bottled premium whiskey, honoring the city’s tradition and its own innovative spirit.

Flask & Barrel Review of Yellow Rose Distilling

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Yellow Rose Distilling, and let me tell you, it was an experience that truly stood out in my long history of distillery tours.

As a whiskey collector, I’ve seen my fair share of distilleries, but there’s something special about Yellow Rose that deserves a solid 4.7 out of 5 in my book.

First off, the vibe of the place is just right. It’s not every day you get to stroll through Houston’s first legal whiskey distillery. The staff there are not just employees; they’re like walking encyclopedias of whiskey knowledge, and their passion for the craft is downright infectious.

They made the tour feel personal, like I was being let in on the secrets of a close-knit whiskey family.

The tour itself was top-notch. It’s one thing to taste whiskey, but to witness the meticulous process of crafting it, right from the grain to the glass, is something else.

And at Yellow Rose, they’ve got this process down to an art. The local Houston weather, they say, adds a unique touch to their whiskey, and I believe it. There’s a distinct character in every sip that tells you this isn’t just another whiskey; it’s a labor of love.

Now, about the whiskey itself – it’s clear why they’ve bagged awards. Each variety has its own personality, and you can tell a lot of thought has gone into creating these unique blends.

The tasting session was the highlight for me. It’s not just about sipping and nodding; it’s an educational experience where you learn to appreciate the nuances that make each bottle special.

The only reason I’m holding back on a perfect score is the timing. I wish they had more slots available for the tours. But then again, maybe it’s this exclusivity that makes the experience feel all the more special.

In a nutshell, Yellow Rose Distilling isn’t just a distillery; it’s a gem in the heart of Houston. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or just curious about the craft, this place is worth your time.

It’s not just about tasting whiskey; it’s about experiencing the soul of it. And for someone who’s been on many distillery tours, I can confidently say, Yellow Rose leaves a mark that’s hard to forget.

What To Do Nearby Yellow Rose Distilling

• Houston Museum of Natural Science (9.83 km): Dive into a world of scientific wonders, featuring ancient fossils and interactive exhibits. Ideal for a 2-3 hour visit.

• Space Center Houston (43.55 km): Engage with space exploration history and witness real-size rockets. A 3-4 hour visit is recommended.

• Toyota Center (10.05 km): Catch exciting events or a basketball game at this iconic arena. Plan for a 1-2 hour visit.

• The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (9.47 km): Immerse yourself in diverse art collections and unique architectural styles for 2-3 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Yellow Rose Distilling?

• Island Grill: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 979 Bunker Hill Rd, Houston, TX 77024.
  For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +18328317071. 

• Adair Kitchen: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 5161 San Felipe St, Houston, TX 77056.
  For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +17136236100. 

• La Plaza Mexican Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 1803 Bingle Rd, Houston, TX 77055.
  For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +17134689946.

What hotels are near Yellow Rose Distilling?

• Sonesta Simply Suites: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 10503 Town and Country Way, Houston, TX 77024.
  For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +17134642677. 

• The Moran: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 800 Sorella Ct, Houston, TX 77024.
  For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +17139731600. 

• The Westin Houston: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 945 Gessner Rd, Houston, TX 77024.
  For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +12815014300.