In the rolling hills of Hye, Texas, Garrison Brothers Distillery is doing more than crafting award-winning bourbon—they’re pouring their heart into saving the state’s natural treasures. On May 1, 2025, the distillery handed over a $50,000 check to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation (TPWF), a donation fueled by their sold-out Texas Independence Day celebration. This marks the second year in a row that Garrison Brothers has partnered with TPWF, proving that their mission to “use good bourbon to change the world” is more than just a catchy slogan—it’s a way of life.
A Celebration of Texas Spirit and Conservation
Every year, Garrison Brothers Distillery throws a massive party to celebrate Texas Independence Day, and 2025 was no exception. On March 1, bourbon lovers from across the state flocked to the distillery’s 68-acre ranch in the Texas Hill Country to mark the occasion and the distillery’s 15th anniversary of selling its legendary Texas bourbon. The star of the event was the release of 1,000 bottles of Balmorhea Cask Strength bourbon, a limited-edition expression hand-selected by Master Distiller Donnis Todd from 11 single barrels. Priced at $230 each, $50 from every bottle sold went straight to TPWF’s efforts to protect Texas’ lands, waters, and wildlife.
The event was a smashing success, with every single bottle snapped up by eager fans. The day was filled with Texas-sized fun, including live music from local artist Noah Kurtis, distillery tours, line dancing, and plenty of food. But beyond the festivities, the event carried a deeper purpose: raising money to ensure Texas’ natural beauty remains wild and free for generations to come. “Through our incredible partnerships and fundraisers, we help prove every day that good bourbon can change the world,” said Dan Garrison, co-founder of Garrison Brothers. “Our continued partnership with Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation means so much to us. We’re thrilled to support their programs that keep Texas wild and beautiful.”
A Legacy of Giving Back
Garrison Brothers isn’t new to using their bourbon for good. Since opening their doors in 2006 as Texas’ first legal bourbon distillery, they’ve been committed to making a difference. Through their nonprofit arm, Good Bourbon for a Good Cause, LLC, the distillery has donated millions of dollars to causes close to their heart, including veterans’ support, environmental conservation, local community initiatives, and the hospitality industry. Their work with TPWF is just one piece of a much larger puzzle.
The $50,000 donation, presented by co-founders Dan and Nancy Garrison, is the second consecutive year that Garrison Brothers has chosen TPWF as the beneficiary of their Texas Independence Day celebration. The funds will directly support TPWF’s mission to preserve Texas’ natural resources, from the Gulf Coast shores to the rugged mountains of West Texas. Anne Brown, TPWF’s Executive Director, couldn’t be more grateful. “For the second year in a row, Garrison Brothers has shown their dedication to conserving Texas’ wildlife and beautiful lands,” she said. “Their generous support helps us protect the wild things and wild places that make Texas so special.”
The Balmorhea Connection
The choice of Balmorhea Cask Strength bourbon for this fundraiser is no accident. Named after Balmorhea State Park, home to the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool, this bourbon is a nod to Texas’ natural wonders. The distillery has a long history with the park, having raised funds for its restoration in 2018 after structural damage forced its closure. That year, Garrison Brothers donated $5 from every bottle of Balmorhea bourbon sold to TPWF, helping to repair the iconic West Texas landmark. Their commitment to the park and its namesake bourbon continues to shine through in their conservation efforts.
Starting in March 2025, Garrison Brothers made another bold move: their award-winning Balmorhea bourbon, a twice-barreled, 115-proof masterpiece, will only be available in Texas. This decision underscores their deep connection to the state and its heritage. “Balmorhea is a true celebration of Texas freedom,” said Donnis Todd. “Its distinct cherry mahogany flavor and bold character have made it a coveted part of our collection for eight years.” By keeping Balmorhea exclusive to Texas, Garrison Brothers is doubling down on their love for the Lone Star State and its wild places.
A Distillery with a Heart
Founded by Dan and Nancy Garrison, Garrison Brothers has always been about more than just making great bourbon. Since their first bottle hit the market in 2010, they’ve built a reputation for craftsmanship and community. Their bourbons, including the flagship Small Batch, Single Barrel, and the coveted Cowboy Bourbon, have racked up over 600 awards and are sold in 42 states and five countries. But it’s their commitment to giving back that truly sets them apart.
Through Good Bourbon for a Good Cause, the distillery has supported a wide range of initiatives. In 2020, they raised $400,000 for coronavirus relief, helping first responders, bartenders, and hospitality workers. They’ve also donated $75,000 to the National Museum of the Pacific War, $200,000 for wildfire-affected communities, and $30,000 to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center for native plant preservation. Their Texas Independence Day fundraisers have become a hallmark of their charitable efforts, with past events supporting the Remember The Alamo Foundation and raising over $50,000 in a single day.
Why This Matters for Texas
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation has been conserving the state’s natural resources for over 30 years. From protecting endangered species to maintaining state parks, their work ensures that Texas remains a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife alike. Partnerships like the one with Garrison Brothers are critical to their success. The $50,000 donation will help fund projects that address some of Texas’ biggest conservation challenges, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the state’s rivers, forests, and prairies.
For Garrison Brothers, this partnership is personal. Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the distillery is surrounded by the very landscapes they’re working to protect. The scorching Texas sun and dramatic seasonal swings that give their bourbon its bold flavor are the same forces that shape the state’s rugged terrain. By supporting TPWF, Garrison Brothers is helping to preserve the environment that makes their bourbon—and Texas itself—so unique.
A Toast to Texas’ Future
As Garrison Brothers celebrates 15 years of crafting Texas bourbon, their commitment to conservation and community only grows stronger. The sold-out Balmorhea Cask Strength release and the $50,000 donation to TPWF are just the latest chapters in their story of using bourbon for good. With every bottle sold and every dollar raised, they’re proving that a small distillery in Hye, Texas, can make a big difference.
For bourbon fans, conservationists, and proud Texans alike, Garrison Brothers’ Texas Independence Day celebration is a reminder of what’s possible when passion and purpose come together. As Dan Garrison puts it, “Good bourbon can change the world.” And with partnerships like this, it’s clear that Garrison Brothers is doing just that—one bottle at a time.
