Chip Tate, a passionate distiller with a background in IT, physics, religion, and philosophy, launched his first distillery in 2008, driven by a lifelong fascination with fermentation and culinary arts. By handcrafting copper pot stills and refurbishing equipment in a small welding shop, he laid the foundation for Balcones Distillery's success.
His internationally acclaimed work has earned nearly 150 awards, showcasing his innovative approach to whisky making, which draws from centuries of tradition while adding his own creative spark. Tate's whiskies have set industry standards, earning him the Whisky Magazine's Icon award and the Best American Whisky overall award at the World Whisky Awards in 2014.
Today, Balcones Distillery's acquisition by spirits giant Diageo stands as a testament to the longevity of his vision, leading the American craft distilling movement towards a golden age of authentic, locally-made spirits.