At Garrison Brothers, we take great pride in our bourbon-making process, and part of that process involves aging our bourbon in a variety of barrel sizes. We believe that the size of the barrel can have a significant impact on the flavor profile of the bourbon, so we have carefully chosen different sizes to create a diverse range of expressions.
Firstly, we have our small barrels, which are less than 10 gallons in size. These barrels are perfect for experimenting with different techniques and flavors. They allow for a faster aging process, as the smaller barrel size means more interaction between the bourbon and the wood. This can result in a more intense and robust flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
Moving up in size, we have our 10 gallon and 20 gallon barrels. These barrels are still relatively small compared to traditional bourbon barrels, which are typically 53 gallons. The smaller size allows for more efficient aging, as there is a higher surface area of bourbon in contact with the barrel. This can lead to a quicker maturation process, allowing the flavors to develop and integrate more rapidly. These smaller barrels are often used for limited edition releases or experimental batches.
Next, we have our standard 53 gallon bourbon barrels. These are the traditional size used in the bourbon industry and are commonly referred to as “full-size” barrels. They offer a balanced aging process, allowing the bourbon to develop and mellow over time. The larger size means that the bourbon has less contact with the wood, resulting in a slower maturation process. This can lead to a smoother and more refined flavor profile, with the oak influence becoming more pronounced over time.
Lastly, we also have a limited number of 59 gallon barrels. These barrels are slightly larger than the standard 53 gallon barrels and can provide a unique aging experience. With a larger volume of bourbon in the barrel, there is a slightly lower ratio of wood to liquid, which can result in a more subtle oak influence. This allows other flavors and characteristics of the bourbon to shine through, resulting in a complex and nuanced profile.
The variety of barrel sizes at Garrison Brothers allows us to experiment and create a diverse range of bourbon expressions. From the intensity of the small barrels to the refined elegance of the larger barrels, each size offers its own unique aging characteristics. It is through this dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail that we are able to produce exceptional bourbon that is truly one-of-a-kind.