Garrison Brothers Distillery is set to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its renowned Cowboy Bourbon with a special release in September 2024. This limited-edition bourbon has become a staple in the American whiskey scene, and this year’s release promises to be the most anticipated yet. First introduced in 2014, Cowboy Bourbon has since garnered numerous awards and established a loyal following, cementing Garrison Brothers’ place in the industry.
The 2024 edition of Cowboy Bourbon will make its debut on September 21 at the distillery in Hye, Texas, where the first 1,000 bottles will be available exclusively to attendees at the special release event. The bourbon is handpicked by Garrison Brothers’ Master Distiller Donnis Todd, who selects the most exceptional barrels for this annual release. These barrels undergo further aging in the harsh Texas climate, where the combination of scorching heat and cool nights enhances the bourbon’s character. As a result, the 2024 Cowboy Bourbon is aged for a minimum of eight years and bottled at a bold 140.2 proof, marking one of the strongest iterations in the bourbon’s history.
What sets this year’s release apart is its luxurious presentation. The bottle is housed in an elegant, custom-designed black box with gold embossed details. The interior of the box is gold-lined, offering a striking contrast to the rich amber hue of the bourbon visible through the transparent front panel. Around the neck of the bottle hangs a commemorative medallion that symbolizes the craftsmanship and accolades the brand has earned over the years. The packaging also includes the limited production number, emphasizing the rarity of this special release.
According to Dan Garrison, the founder of Garrison Brothers Distillery, this 10th anniversary edition is more than just a bottle of bourbon—it’s a tribute to the legacy of American whiskey and the hard work that goes into crafting each batch. “This release is a nod to years of hard work and dedication blessed by the unmatched Texas terroir, all in the hands of our distiller, Donnis Todd,” Garrison shared in a statement. Todd echoed this sentiment, describing the journey of creating the 10th-anniversary edition as “an incredible experience,” where each barrel reflects the bold and resilient spirit of Texas.
The history of Cowboy Bourbon is rooted in a unique approach to whiskey-making. Unlike most bourbons, which are typically bottled between 80 and 100 proof, Cowboy Bourbon is uncut and unfiltered, resulting in what whiskey enthusiasts refer to as “hazmat” proof—a term reserved for spirits over 140 proof. While the term playfully alludes to the high flammability and intense alcohol content of these bourbons, it also highlights the powerful flavor profile that comes from such concentrated expressions. The aging process in the Texas climate is crucial to achieving this balance, as it allows the bourbon to mature faster and develop deep, complex flavors.
The distillery is renowned for its meticulous barrel selection process. Each year, Donnis Todd identifies barrels with particularly sweet and robust profiles. These barrels are set aside and aged further, allowing the bourbon to develop a unique character that sets it apart from other high-proof offerings. The 2024 edition boasts tasting notes that include flavors of fried fruit, warm pecan wood, brown sugar, and hot Saigon cinnamon, with hints of raisins, vanilla, and melted chocolate fudge. These flavors are layered with undertones of plums, rhubarb, and white chocolate, creating a rich and unforgettable drinking experience.
This year’s release of Cowboy Bourbon comes on the heels of significant recognition for Garrison Brothers. The 2023 edition was named the best bourbon in the world by the American Craft Spirits Association, among other prestigious awards. The distillery has consistently earned accolades for its craft, with Cowboy Bourbon being one of the most celebrated in its lineup. The upcoming release is expected to uphold this tradition of excellence, further solidifying the brand’s status in the world of whiskey.
In October, after the initial release event at the distillery, the remaining 9,000 bottles will be distributed to select bars, restaurants, and retailers nationwide. The suggested retail price is $279.99, reflecting both the quality and rarity of the bourbon. For collectors and bourbon aficionados, the 2024 edition is not just another release but a significant milestone in the history of Garrison Brothers.
Garrison Brothers has always been a trailblazer in the industry, proudly claiming the title of Texas’ first legal bourbon distillery. Over the years, the brand has remained committed to its Texas roots, often engaging in community initiatives and fundraising efforts. Earlier in 2024, the distillery raised $100,000 to support communities affected by wildfires and continued its tradition of giving back with its Lady Bird Bourbon release to protect Texas wildflowers.
As the 10th-anniversary release of Cowboy Bourbon approaches, the excitement among bourbon lovers is palpable. Whether attending the release event in Hye or hunting for a bottle at local retailers, fans of high-proof, bold-flavored whiskey will undoubtedly be eager to experience this special edition. For those lucky enough to secure a bottle, the 2024 Garrison Brothers Cowboy Bourbon promises to deliver a taste that is as memorable and enduring as the legacy it celebrates.
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About Garrison Brothers Distillery
Garrison Brothers Distillery is a renowned craft distillery located in Hye, Texas, celebrated for producing high-quality, small-batch bourbon. Founded in 2006 by Dan Garrison, it holds the distinction of being the first legal bourbon distillery in Texas. Garrison Brothers prides itself on embodying the spirit of Texas through its artisanal approach to bourbon production, using locally sourced ingredients and traditional methods.
The distillery is situated in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, where the unique climate significantly influences the aging process of the bourbon. The intense heat and temperature fluctuations in this region accelerate the interaction between the whiskey and the oak barrels, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile. This terroir-specific aging process contributes to the distinctive taste of Garrison Brothers' bourbons.
Garrison Brothers is committed to quality from grain to glass. The distillery uses organic, non-GMO corn, wheat, and barley, primarily grown in Texas, to craft its bourbon. The mash is fermented with a proprietary yeast strain and distilled in copper pot stills, ensuring a robust and flavorful spirit. Each batch is carefully monitored and aged in custom-made, charred American oak barrels, which add layers of vanilla, caramel, and spice to the whiskey.
One of the flagship products of Garrison Brothers is its Texas Straight Bourbon, known for its bold, full-bodied character and rich, oaky flavors. This bourbon has garnered numerous awards and accolades, solidifying the distillery's reputation in the competitive craft spirits market. Other notable offerings include the Balmorhea Double-Barrel Bourbon, which undergoes a second maturation in new barrels for an even deeper and more complex flavor, and the Cowboy Bourbon, an uncut and unfiltered expression prized for its intensity and depth.
Garrison Brothers is also known for its community-oriented philosophy. The distillery frequently engages in philanthropic activities, supporting various local and national charities through its Good Bourbon for a Good Cause initiative. This commitment to giving back reflects the values of the Garrison Brothers team and their dedication to making a positive impact beyond their high-quality spirits.
Visitors to Garrison Brothers Distillery can enjoy guided tours that offer an in-depth look at the bourbon-making process, from the fields to the finished product. The distillery's scenic location, combined with its hands-on approach to education and hospitality, makes it a popular destination for whiskey enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Overall, Garrison Brothers Distillery stands out for its dedication to craftsmanship, quality, and community. By producing exceptional bourbon that captures the essence of Texas, Garrison Brothers has established itself as a leader in the American craft whiskey movement.
