Garrison Brothers bourbon is distilled at the Garrison Brothers Distillery in Hye, Texas. This distillery holds a special place in the bourbon world as it was granted the first stiller's permit for bourbon outside of the traditional bourbon regions of Kentucky and Tennessee. This distinction makes Garrison Brothers the oldest legal bourbon distillery in Texas.
Located in the small town of Hye, the distillery is nestled among the rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country. The picturesque location adds to the charm and character of Garrison Brothers bourbon. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to visit the distillery and witness the bourbon-making process firsthand.
Upon entering the distillery, one is immediately struck by the rich aroma of fermenting grains and the sight of towering copper stills. The distillery is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, ensuring that every step of the bourbon production process is meticulously carried out.
Garrison Brothers bourbon is made using a combination of traditional distilling techniques and innovative approaches. The distillery prides itself on sourcing locally grown corn, wheat, and malted barley from Texas farmers. This commitment to using local ingredients not only supports the local economy but also adds a unique Texas touch to the flavor profile of the bourbon.
The distilling process begins with the carefully selected grains being milled and cooked to create a mash. This mash is then fermented using proprietary yeast strains, which contribute to the distinct flavors and aromas of Garrison Brothers bourbon. The fermentation process can take up to seven days, allowing the yeast to work its magic and convert the sugars into alcohol.
After fermentation, the mash is distilled in copper pot stills. These stills play a crucial role in shaping the character of the bourbon, as they help to remove impurities and concentrate the flavors. The distillate, known as “white dog,” is then aged in new American oak barrels, which are charred to impart additional flavor and color.
The aging process is a vital step in the production of Garrison Brothers bourbon. The Texas climate, with its hot summers and relatively mild winters, accelerates the aging process, resulting in a more mature bourbon in a shorter period compared to other regions. This unique aging environment adds complexity and depth to the flavor profile of Garrison Brothers bourbon.
Once the bourbon has reached its desired maturity, it is carefully blended and bottled at the distillery. Garrison Brothers takes pride in its attention to detail and craftsmanship, ensuring that every bottle of bourbon that leaves the distillery meets the highest standards of quality.
Garrison Brothers bourbon is distilled at the Garrison Brothers Distillery in Hye, Texas. The distillery's commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, combined with its innovative approach to bourbon production, sets it apart in the world of whiskey. If you ever have the opportunity, I highly recommend visiting the distillery to experience the passion and dedication that goes into creating Garrison Brothers bourbon.