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About Garrison Brothers Distillery

Garrison Brothers Distillery, located in Hye, Texas, is a pioneering force in the craft distilling industry. Founded in 2005 by Dan and Nancy Garrison, it holds the distinction of being the first legal bourbon distillery outside of Kentucky and Tennessee. This Texas-based distillery has carved out a unique niche by adhering to traditional bourbon-making techniques while incorporating innovative practices that reflect the Texas spirit. Garrison Brothers is renowned for producing Texas Straight Bourbon, a label that signifies the whiskey is fermented, distilled, matured, and bottled entirely within the state of Texas.

Standout Features

Unique Production Methods

Garrison Brothers stands out from other bourbon distilleries, particularly those in Kentucky, through several distinct production methods. One key difference is the use of a sweet mash fermentation process, which contrasts with the sour mash technique commonly used in Kentucky. This sweet mash method involves not using "backset," or the acidic residue from previous distillations, allowing for a cleaner and more consistent fermentation process.

The distillery employs a 2,000-gallon copper pot still, nicknamed "Big Johnson," along with two 500-gallon stills, "Fat Man" and "Little Boy." Unlike many Kentucky distilleries, Garrison Brothers completes distillation in a single run without using a Thumper, which they believe enhances the texture and body of their bourbon.

Aging and Barreling

Garrison Brothers' aging process is another area where they differentiate themselves. The distillery uses barrels made from American Oak sourced from the Ozarks and Minnesota, seasoned for 36 months before use. These barrels undergo a 3-minute toast and a 53-second char, contributing to the rich flavor profile of their bourbons. The aging takes place in five one-story barns and in transatlantic shipping containers that create microclimates, resulting in a higher angel's share (13-15%) compared to Kentucky (5-7%) and Scotland (2-3%).

Commitment to Quality and Community

Garrison Brothers is committed to quality and community. Each expression of their bourbon is aged a minimum of four years and is non-chill filtered. The distillery has also been recognized for its philanthropic efforts through "Good Bourbon for a Good Cause," a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has donated over $1.6 million to various charities, including significant contributions to support the hospitality industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.

FAQs

What makes Garrison Brothers different from other bourbon distilleries?

Garrison Brothers stands out due to its use of sweet mash fermentation, single-run distillation without a Thumper, and the unique aging conditions in Texas. These practices contribute to a distinct flavor profile that differs from traditional Kentucky bourbons.

Where are Garrison Brothers' barrels sourced from?

The barrels used by Garrison Brothers are sourced from Kelvin Cooperage in Louisville, Kentucky, and Barrel Mill in Avon, Minnesota. These barrels are made from American Oak and are seasoned for 36 months before use.

What is the significance of the "Texas Straight Bourbon" label?

The "Texas Straight Bourbon" label signifies that the whiskey is fermented, distilled, matured, and bottled entirely within the state of Texas. This label is a point of pride for Garrison Brothers, reflecting their commitment to regional authenticity.

How does the Texas climate affect the aging process?

The hot Texas climate accelerates the maturation process, resulting in a higher angel's share (13-15%) compared to other regions. This climate also contributes to the rich, full-bodied flavor profiles characteristic of Garrison Brothers' bourbons.

What philanthropic efforts is Garrison Brothers involved in?

Garrison Brothers is involved in various philanthropic efforts through "Good Bourbon for a Good Cause," a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The distillery has donated over $1.6 million to charities, including significant contributions to support the hospitality industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.