DROWNING SORROWS

Downtown San Antonio whiskey distillery files for bankruptcy

Devils River has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Downtown San Antonio whiskey distillery Devils River Holdings has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protections in the Western District of Texas. The move comes as the spirits industry experiences a rare revenue decline.

According to the filing, Devils River owes multiple creditors between $1 million and $10 million. If Chapter 11 is approved, it will allow the company to avoid liquidating its assets and potentially shutting down. The paperwork lists a law firm, distributor Sazerac, and the company’s downtown landlord as its biggest debtholders.

Devils River launched as a national retail brand in 2017. It produces rye and bourbon whiskies, including a popular coffee-flavored bourbon, and uses limestone-filtered water from the lower Rio Grande River.

In 2021, it opened a public storefront in the historic Burns Building at 401 E. Houston St. The facility offers distillery tours, private rentals, and frequent live music on the patio.

Since then, it has attracted some high-profile brand ambassadors and investors. Former professional wrestler and Guardians of the Galaxy star David Bautista has an ownership stake, and Texas country musician Bri Bagwell is an advocate.

Nationwide, spirit makers are starting to feel the brunt of inflation and other economic trends, including a decline in drinking among young adults. In 2024, the Distilled Spirits Council of America reported a 1.1 percent drop in spirits revenue in 2024 and a steeper 1.8 percent fall for producers of American whiskey.

While seeking bankruptcy protections, Devils River continues to operate as normal in downtown San Antonio. The tasting room and distillery is open 4 pm-midnight, Monday-Thursday; noon-midnight, Friday-Saturday; and noon-11 pm, Sunday.

And Bautista is still throwing his star power behind the brand. On Saturday, May 10, the actor will be making two promotional appearances in San Antonio at the WB Liquors at 9801 W. IH-10 and the Twin Liquors at 12955 San Pedro Ave.

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FEAST FOR THE SENSES

Star chef hits high note with San Antonio Philharmonic collaboration

Johnny Hernandez, chef, La Fruteria, Mexican restaurant, February 2013

Johnny Hernandez Facebook

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Famous Alamo City chef Johnny Hernandez’s career is hitting a high note thanks to a new partnership with the San Antonio Philharmonic. The local celebrity is creating a fresh food and beverage experience at downtown’s iconic Scottish Rite Cathedral.

According to a release, the collaboration is meant to complement performances in the classic revival temple. Although nothing is entirely set in stone, the joint venture will likely include dinner and show pairings, a Sunday brunch service, and foyer receptions.

Hernandez is also considering opening a gift shop filled with “gourmet items, curated wines, and culinary souvenirs inspired by the symphony and San Antonio culture,” according to the news alert. A cellar cocktail lounge might be open on nights without performances.

Speaking of drinks, Hernandez will up the ante on the venue’s beverage service with ultra-premium single-malt Scotch and a wine bar stocked with unexpected vintages. The original libations will be inspired by classical compositions.

The cocktails will be inspired by classical compositions.Photo courtesy of San Antonio Philharmonic.

“Food is a form of storytelling, just like music,” said San Antonio Philharmonic Executive Director Roberto Treviño in the release. “We are creating a space where both mediums can speak to the soul, celebrate heritage, and bring people together in meaningful ways.”

Hernandez has been busy recently, introducing a number of new projects. In April, he announced a collaboration between his Burgerteca brand and Blue Moon Mexican Restaurant. A food hall featuring Burgerteca, The Fruteria, and Southtown Coffee will open in 2026.

Hernandez will share details on the Philharmonic partnership during performances of Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, Resurrection, taking place on Friday and Saturday, May 23 and 24. A few tickets, starting at $30.50, are still available.

“This partnership is about honoring the cultural spirit of San Antonio,” said Hernandez. “We’re not just serving food; we’re enhancing the way people experience music, architecture, and community.”

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