Background & Inspiration

What first inspired you to become a distiller?
I've always had a passion for wine and spirits, so when I had the opportunity to be mentored by legends like David Pickerell (former distillers of Makers Mark and Whistlepig) and Troy Smith (former master distiller of Yellow Rose), I dove myself into the world of fermentation and distillation. That early exposure to flavors and tasting during my coffee days paired with my background in systems engineering and process optimization,made distilling feel like the perfect blend of science, creativity, and tradition.

How has your heritage influenced your journey in whiskey-making?
My heritage has taught me the value of hard work, family, and celebration,all of which are deeply related to whiskey making. There's a strong tradition of craftsmanship and pride in your work that I carry with me every day, especially when it comes to honoring flavors, culture, and the people behind the bottle.

What does being part of the Texas whiskey community mean to you?
Texas whiskey is bold, resilient, and full of character, just like the people who make it. Being part of this community means contributing to something bigger than yourself. It's about pushing boundaries while respecting tradition, and I’m proud to be helping shape what Texas whiskey represents on a national and global stage.

Bourbon & Craft

What makes Texas bourbon special in your eyes?
The Texas climate and terroir have a huge impact, they play an important role in aging and impart unique flavor profiles you won't find anywhere else. But more than that, it's the spirit of innovation here. We're relatively young in the American whiskey world but we experiment, adapt, and create something distinctively Texan in every bottle.

Do you have a favorite bourbon you’ve helped create—and what makes it stand out?
There’s one that definitely stands out—our Giant U of H Bourbon. It was part of a larger development project tied to the history of our distillery, and it represents a true turning point for us. From process efficiency to extensive barrel selection, every element was carefully crafted to reflect the high standards we've set for our brand. We're especially proud of this bourbon because it's a celebration of Houston,the city where our distillery was born,and of the University of Houston, a cornerstone of this community. It’s a bold, rich, and balanced spirit that pays tribute to our roots and the pride we share in being part of Houston’s story.

What’s one behind-the-scenes detail about distilling bourbon most people wouldn’t expect?
Most people don’t realize how much science and precision go into every step. From the fermentation temperatures to distillation cuts and aging decisions, it's a highly technical process. I focus a lot on efficiency and quality control,you can’t make great bourbon without getting the details right.

Personal & Cultural Connection

How do you see your culture and traditions reflected in your work as a distiller?
Hospitality, Happiness, bold flavors, and a deep appreciation for shared experiences, those are cultural values I bring to the distillery every day. Whether it's crafting a new blend or sharing a glass with visitors, it’s about making something that brings people together.

What does celebrating Bourbon Heritage Month alongside Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally?
It’s an opportunity to celebrate two legacies that I always keep present, my cultural roots and my professional craft. It’s a reminder that innovation and tradition can coexist, and that we all bring unique perspectives that improve the bourbon world.

If you could share a glass of bourbon with anyone from your heritage, past or present, who would it be?
I’d love to share a pour with my grandfather. He was a man of resilience and grit, someone who built a life for his family with very little, but with a strong sense of purpose and pride. I imagine sitting with him, bourbon in hand, sharing not just the drink but our stories and how our families developed.

Fun

Neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail—what’s your go-to pour?
Neat. I love experiencing the full complexity of the spirit,every note, aroma, and finish. It’s the best way to appreciate all the work that goes into each bottle. However if the proof is above 110, I like to add a small rock to keep the flavors balanced.

Favorite food to pair with Texas bourbon?
Steak and fries, those flavors pair perfectly with the bold profile of Texas bourbon. And if we’re talking dessert, definitely dark chocolate and cashews.

What’s one word you’d use to describe Texas bourbon?
Unique.