I was in Texas last week for a Jon Pardi show at Rodeo Houston, a mammoth spectacular that takes place at NRG Stadium, home to the National Football League’s Houston Texans. It is a massive and iconic event that is recognized as the world’s largest livestock exhibition and rodeo.  It combines a professional rodeo, livestock show, a large carnival, and nightly concerts by big artists of all genres that draw over 70,000 per night for close to three weeks.  This is a major cultural event for Houston, drawing millions of visitors each year. I’m lucky enough to be able to attend every year.  It’s easily one of my favorite events.

This year I found an early morning hour and visited a couple of Spec’s stores- a well-known Texas based liquor store chain whose reputation far extends beyond its Texas border. It’s a family-owned and operated business, having been established in 1962 in Houston. They are known for their extensive selection of whiskey, bourbon, wines, other spirits, beers, and gourmet foods. Their larger “warehouse” stores offer a truly vast inventory. Spec’s has built a reputation for offering a wide variety of products at competitive prices. They had a couple locations with a few miles of the hotel. So, off I went.

Spec’s has a significant presence throughout Texas, with numerous locations in major metropolitan areas like Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and others. Over 150 stores in total. They are known to be a great source for Buffalo Trace products. And they did not disappoint. I saw hundreds of bottles of the flagship Buffalo Trace branded bourbon, Weller Special Reserve & Eagle Rare.

I saw long, well-stocked aisles with abundant choices. I purchased one of their Eagle Rare store picks and another of their Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut store pick that I took to the venue to share with our Radio guests. Now this meant I had to check a bag for the flight home for the leftover liquid but well worth the additional hassle.  And if you’re into tequila, I have never seen such a vast selection in my life.  I can only chalk this up as another great day, combining my job, Country music, whiskey & Rodeo.  That’s hard to beat.

If you ever get the opportunity to attend Rodeo Houston, you should attend. It’s quite the spectacle. Also, find the time to stop into a Spec’s store or two. The combination of the two is a winning strategy.