In the heart of Texas Hill Country, where the sun beats down and the land tells stories of grit and glory, Garrison Brothers Distillery is gearing up to release something special. On October 18, 2025, the distillery will unveil Sonora Texas Straight Bourbon Finished in Rye Whiskey Barrels, a seven-year-aged spirit that’s as bold and rugged as the state it calls home. This new bourbon, named after the enigmatic Caverns of Sonora, is a testament to patience, craftsmanship, and the untamed spirit of Texas. It’s the ninth addition to Garrison Brothers’ award-winning lineup, and it’s already generating buzz among whiskey lovers across the country.
A Bourbon Born from Texas Grit
Garrison Brothers, based in Hye, Texas, has been crafting bourbon since 2006, earning its place as the first legal whiskey distillery in the state and the first outside Kentucky to produce authentic, corn-to-cork bourbon. Founded by Dan and Nancy Garrison, the distillery prides itself on doing things the hard way—handcrafting every batch with premium ingredients and a relentless commitment to quality. Sonora, their latest creation, embodies this ethos. It’s a bourbon that’s been shaped by seven scorching Texas summers, aged for four years in new white American oak barrels before spending an additional three years in rye whiskey barrels. The result is a 108-proof powerhouse sealed with a distinctive ruby red wax, ready to make its mark.
The inspiration behind Sonora comes from the Caverns of Sonora, a natural wonder tucked away in the Texas landscape. Just as the caverns were carved over centuries by time and nature, this bourbon has been patiently crafted to capture the essence of Texas—rugged, beautiful, and full of character. It’s a fitting tribute to a state that values tradition but isn’t afraid to forge its own path.
A Team Effort with a Historic Twist
What sets Sonora apart isn’t just its bold flavor or unique aging process—it’s the story of the people who brought it to life. This bourbon marks a milestone for Garrison Brothers, as it’s a collaborative effort led by Master Distiller Donnis Todd and Samantha Olvera, a seven-year veteran of the distillery’s team. Olvera, the first female Latina in Texas to craft bourbon from grain to glass, played a pivotal role in shaping Sonora. Working alongside Nancy Garrison, Todd, and other team members, she helped guide this project from concept to bottle, proving that great whiskey knows no boundaries.
Ciara Knee-Chavez, the marketing director for the project, has also been instrumental in bringing Sonora to the world. “Garrison Brothers Sonora Bourbon is a testament to the power of female leadership, collaboration, and true craftsmanship,” said Nancy Garrison, co-founder of the distillery. “Since starting in 2006, we have had the privilege of working with many female leaders as part of our family business, including Samantha Olvera on our distilling team. It’s nice to share their stories through bourbon.”
This emphasis on collaboration and inclusivity adds a layer of depth to Sonora. It’s not just a drink—it’s a celebration of the people who pour their hearts into every barrel, blending tradition with innovation to create something truly special.
Tasting the Texas Spirit
Sonora isn’t your average bourbon. Bottled at 108 proof (54% ABV), it’s a full-bodied whiskey that demands attention. The seven-year aging process, split between American oak and rye whiskey barrels, gives it a complex flavor profile that’s both intense and refined. Expect a nose filled with dark cocoa, rye grain, vanilla, and leather, followed by a palate that delivers waves of dark chocolate, baking spice, warm cinnamon, and toasted oak. The finish is long, dry, and warming, with a distinct rye spice that lingers like a Texas sunset.
For those who appreciate a bold bourbon, Sonora is best sipped neat or with a single ice cube to tame its robust proof. It’s a versatile spirit that pairs beautifully with Texas BBQ, rich chocolate desserts, or even spiced nuts for a night of sipping and storytelling. Whether you’re gathering around a firepit with friends or winding down after a long day, this bourbon is built for moments that matter.
A Limited Release with a Purpose
Sonora’s release is a big deal, but it’s also a limited one. Only 6,000 bottles will be available, with the first 1,000 hitting the shelves at Garrison Brothers’ distillery event on October 18, 2025. The remaining 5,000 will roll out to the distillery’s e-commerce store and select retailers across the nation starting in early November. Priced at $159.99, it’s a premium pour that reflects the care and craftsmanship behind it.
But Sonora isn’t just about great whiskey—it’s about giving back. Garrison Brothers is donating $5 from every bottle sold to the Texas Cave Management Association, an organization dedicated to preserving the Caverns of Sonora for future generations. It’s a nod to the bourbon’s namesake and a reminder that great things, whether natural wonders or fine spirits, are worth protecting.
The Garrison Brothers Legacy
Since releasing their first bourbon in 2010, Garrison Brothers has built a reputation for crafting some of the finest whiskeys in the world. Their portfolio includes fan favorites like the Single Barrel Bourbon, Balmorhea, and HoneyDew, each showcasing the bold, full-bodied flavors that come from aging in the intense Texas climate. The distillery’s commitment to using gourmet-grade ingredients and hand-selecting barrels has earned them a loyal following among bourbon enthusiasts.
Located in the rolling hills of Hye, Texas, Garrison Brothers is more than just a distillery—it’s a destination. Visitors can tour the facility, learn about the bourbon-making process, and even sample some of the legendary spirits that have put Texas whiskey on the map. For those planning a trip, the distillery’s website, garrisonbros.com, offers all the details on tours and events, including the upcoming Sonora release party.
Why Sonora Matters
For whiskey lovers, Sonora is more than just a new bottle to add to the collection. It’s a chance to taste the culmination of years of hard work, innovation, and Texas pride. The rye whiskey barrel finish adds a layer of spice and complexity that sets it apart from other bourbons, while the story of its creation—led by a team that includes trailblazers like Samantha Olvera—makes it a milestone in the world of craft spirits.
As the release date approaches, anticipation is building. Whether you’re one of the lucky few to snag a bottle at the distillery event or you’re waiting for it to hit stores in November, Sonora promises to be a bourbon worth seeking out. It’s a reminder that the best things in life—like a good whiskey or a hidden Texas cavern—take time, patience, and a little bit of boldness to uncover.
For those who want to dive deeper into the world of Garrison Brothers, the distillery is also hosting the Hye Old Fashioned Takeover in 2025, a celebration of their craft and the cocktails that bring it to life. Check garrisonbros.com for more details on this event and how to experience the spirit of Texas bourbon firsthand.
So, mark your calendars for October 18, 2025, and get ready to raise a glass to Sonora—a bourbon that captures the heart and soul of Texas in every sip.
