Garrison Brothers

 

If you have researched Texas whiskey at all, you have run across Garrison Brothers.  Located among the rolling hills in Hye, Texas, the property is as beautiful as the whiskey produced there.  Touting the tagline of being "home of the first bourbon distillery outside of Kentucky", they have certainly made a name for themselves.  They are Texas proud, and Texas tough.  

I have to admit I've been a fan of their whiskey for some time, so was a little giddy making the visit. It's a pretty country drive getting to the gravel road of the entrance.  Complete with native Texas plants, limestone, and the five pointed star on their logo, the feeling of Texas ranch is inescapable.  Once parked, you are greeted by a sign saying to let them know if you are Military, a Veteran, a First Responder, a Cop, a Teacher, or any other type of American Badass.  Nothing like being welcomed by people that already think you're a Badass!

The Garrison Brothers Distillery grounds are a well-oiled machine.  Everybody has a role, and things run very smoothly.  An outside bar has cocktails, whiskey pours and flights. You can get a three or four pour flight, with pre-selected options. Two single barrel pours, both from 2016, just different barrels, a Small Batch, and the Honeydew.  

Single Barrel A:  2016, 94 proof

Deep caramel, almost rust-colored in the glass.  The rich caramel comes through in the nose and the taste, along with a little smokiness.  It's heavy but smooth, with a nice, long finish.

Single Barrel B:  2016, 94 proof

Dark golden amber in color, and well-balanced sweetness in the nose.  The taste is full and flavorful, but not stout.  Smooth, with a nice finish.  

Small Batch:  2020, 94 proof

Light amber color with hints of cinnamon, and leather in the nose.  Tastes of earthy flavors with a touch of sweetness. Easy drinker.  

Honeydew:  80 proof

Definitely not the sweet, honey flavor I was expecting, but also didn't want.  It's not a flavored whiskey, it's a honey infused whiskey, which tempers the honey flavor.  It's there, just with a subtleness that is appreciated.  

Garrison Brothers products are well-known, and have a good following for a reason.  They endured the often painstaking beginnings of any new venture, and have forged a solid place in the whiskey industry.  And it just happens to be made in Texas.  

Texas Proud.

Texas Tough.

Texas Good. 

Cheers, y'all!