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WESTERN SON

Pilot Point Distillery Produces American-Made Spirits

Article by Roger Ireland

Photography by Courtesy of Western Son Distillery

Originally published in Celina Lifestyle

Nestled in the charming town of Pilot Point, Texas, Western Son Distillery has been producing high-quality, American-made spirits since its founding in 2011. Still locally owned, this independent distillery has established itself as a leader in the craft spirits industry, combining traditional methods with modern innovation to create a diverse portfolio of vodkas that cater to every palate.

Western Son is not just a brand; it’s a celebration of Texas ingenuity and a dedication to community values. Each bottle tells a story of meticulous craftsmanship, natural ingredients, and a passion for delivering exceptional quality. 

At the heart of Western Son’s success is its flagship product: Original Texas Vodka. This smooth, gluten-free vodka is crafted from 100% American corn and distilled ten times to ensure unparalleled purity and clarity. This rigorous distillation process eliminates impurities, leaving a spirit that is crisp, clean, and remarkably versatile. 

The Original Texas Vodka serves as the foundation for Western Son’s collection of naturally flavored vodkas. Each variety is crafted using real fruit to ensure authentic, vibrant flavors. The distillery’s lineup includes unique options like Piney Woods Blueberry, South Texas Prickly Pear, and Big Stripe Watermelon, as well as classic favorites such as Gulf Coast Lime, Lower Valley Lemon, and High Plains Raspberry. Each bottle showcases the distillery’s dedication to using the finest ingredients and creating products that resonate with consumers. Our favorites include South Plains Cucumber Vodka for a light and herbaceous experience and Ruby Red Grapefruit Vodka with a tangy citrus punch. The range ensures there’s a flavor for every occasion and preference.

A blend of history and modernity defines Western Son’s ethos. The distillery bridges the past and present, paying homage to Texas tradition while embracing cutting-edge distillation techniques. Located only a few blocks from the Pilot Point Town Square, the main campus once served as a manufacturing facility for undergarments, affectionately known to locals as "the panty factory." Today, this quirky legacy lives on, with memorabilia and nods to its past scattered throughout, such as a pair of undergarments signed by locals who worked in the original factory. 

For those eager to experience the spirit of Western Son firsthand, the distillery offers guided tours and tastings on Saturdays in the Spring, Summer, and Fall. These tours provide an in-depth look at the history of the facility, the intricacies of the distillation process, and the craftsmanship behind each product. Visitors can explore the production areas, learn about the distillery’s commitment to quality, and enjoy tastings of their award-winning vodkas. The friendly and knowledgeable staff ensure that every visit is educational and enjoyable. The tasting room, with its inviting atmosphere, allows guests to savor the full range of Western Son products, making it a truly unique destination. 

The distillery also hosts events, from live music performances to private parties, making it a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike. Its picturesque setting in Pilot Point adds to the charm, making it a must-visit destination for spirit enthusiasts.

In addition to its commitment to quality, Western Son is committed to the community and the staff it calls family. Multiple generations of locals operate the manufacturing facility featuring a grandmother, mother, and daughter all working together! By sourcing local ingredients from providers such as Pecan Creek Farm, optimizing production processes, and prioritizing environmental stewardship, Western Son demonstrates that success and sustainability can go hand in hand.

Western Son Distillery is as dedicated to giving back as it is to crafting exceptional spirits. A portion of the profits from every bottle sold supports the Peter Burks Unsung Hero Fund, an organization named after Second Lieutenant Peter Burks, college roommate to one of the founders who served in the U.S. Army. This fund sends care packages to deployed military personnel, providing a tangible reminder of gratitude and support.

Since its inception in 2007, the Peter Burks Unsung Hero Fund has shipped over 46,000 pounds of care packages worldwide. Western Son’s contributions play a significant role in continuing this impactful mission, aligning the brand with values of service and community.

Western Son’s dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed. The distillery has received numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the craft spirits industry. These honors are a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation such as the 2024 SIP Awards Best in Class for Western Son Blueberry for Flavored/Infused vodka. Every product reflects the passion and expertise of the Western Son team. Their spirits consistently earn praise for their smoothness, authenticity, and versatility.

Western Son Distillery embodies the spirit of independence, craftsmanship, and community. From its humble beginnings in a historic Texas town to its current status as a celebrated name in the spirits industry, the brand has remained true to its values.

Whether you’re savoring the smoothness of their Original Texas Vodka or exploring the vibrant flavors of their fruit-infused offerings, every sip is a testament to Western Son’s dedication to quality. Beyond the bottle, their commitment to community, sustainability, and innovation sets them apart as a distillery that truly cares. As Vice President Erin King says, “The brand is bigger than the bottle. We aspire to be the best in the market rather than just the biggest.“

For those who appreciate fine spirits and a great story, Western Son Distillery offers both in abundance. It’s more than just a place—it’s a celebration of Texas pride, creativity, and the enduring spirit of craftsmanship. Join us for a tasting when the hospitality center reopens March 1st, 2025! 

WesternSonDistillery.com
217 W Division St, Pilot Point, TX 76258