Discover Briggs Distilling Co. for Whiskey and Hill Country Charm Just Outside of Austin
The new distillery in Driftwood offers locally-crafted whiskey, burgers, live music and a welcoming atmosphere for families and friends
Sometimes, the best day trips don’t require much of a road trip at all. Just a short drive from Austin, Driftwood offers the kind of Hill Country scenery that makes you want to slow down for an easy weekend afternoon, and recently we had the chance to take an early visit to Briggs Distilling Co. ahead of their opening on Oct. 17. This family-owned whiskey distillery offers country air, good cocktails, live music, burgers and more all wrapped up — in an easygoing setting.
Briggs is family-owned and operated with a mission that goes beyond making whiskey. The distillery welcomes kids and dogs, making it a great spot where families, friends and all age groups can all feel at home.
“Briggs Distilling was born from family and built for families,” says Bailey Briggs, vice president of marketing. “The distillery stands on family land, just steps from where generations of our relatives have lived and gathered. For more than twenty years, our family has called the Texas Hill Country home, spending holidays, birthdays, and long summer days on the river together.”
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The 9,000-square-foot distillery features a mix of rustic character and modern style. Designed by Texas-based M. Elliott Studio, the casual space pairs weathered brick, exposed steel and deep wood tones with comfortable furnishings that invite guests to settle in, catch up with friends and let the afternoon unfold.
Briggs offers three whiskeys bottled on-site, led by Master Distiller Colton Weinstein: Straight Rye Whiskey, Heritage Reserve Bourbon and Wheated Bourbon. Their bar also serves a cocktail menu featuring the Briggs Old Fashioned and Ranch Road Refresher. Frozen cocktails, creative mocktails and other nonalcoholic options mean there’s something for just about everyone.
A.T. Eatz Burger Joint serves up burgers, fries and other casual favorites in a food truck on-site. And you can enjoy live music on Fridays and Saturdays on a stage on the back lawn.
Opening on Saturday, Oct. 17, Briggs Distilling Co. is another reason to take the scenic route to Driftwood. Go for the cocktails, stay for the music, and enjoy a little country setting without going too far from Austin.