In the heart of Texas, Garrison Brothers, the state’s first legal whiskey distillery, has announced the launch of its highly anticipated Ranch Reserve Series. This new collection features two distinct whiskeys, each finished in different types of sherry casks from Spain, offering a unique twist on traditional bourbon.
The distillery, nestled in the small town of Hye, about an hour from Austin, has been crafting exceptional whiskeys since its founding in 2006 by Dan and Nancy Garrison. Known for its bold and distinctive flavors, Garrison Brothers has carved out a niche in the competitive whiskey market, and the Ranch Reserve Series is set to further solidify its reputation.
Introducing the Ranch Reserve Series
The Ranch Reserve Series consists of two expressions: the PX Sherry Cask Finished and the Oloroso Sherry Cask Finished whiskeys. Both whiskeys underwent an initial aging period of four years in new charred oak barrels, followed by an additional four years in 59-gallon sherry casks. The PX edition was finished in Pedro Ximenez sherry casks, while the Oloroso edition was finished in Oloroso sherry casks.
The PX Sherry Cask Finished whiskey is bottled at 109 proof and offers a rich, dessert-like profile with notes of toffee, caramel, figs, and candied fruit. On the other hand, the Oloroso Sherry Cask Finished whiskey, bottled at 110 proof, delivers a drier, more savory experience with flavors of walnut and baking spices. Both whiskeys are priced at $150 and will be available starting June 27 at 8 a.m. at the distillery, with a subsequent rollout to retailers nationwide.
Garrison Brothers’ Market Success
In addition to the exciting new releases, Garrison Brothers has reported impressive sales growth in a challenging market. Nine months ago, the distillery partnered with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, a move that has significantly boosted its national and statewide sales. The distillery has experienced double-digit growth in national sales and over 40% gains in Texas compared to the same period last year.
These positive results are particularly noteworthy given the competitive landscape, where established brands like Jim Beam and Jack Daniel’s dominate. Garrison Brothers’ success can be attributed to its unique approach to whiskey-making, including the use of different barrel sizes and the distinctive climate of Texas, which accelerates the aging process and imparts a strong oak presence and deep color to the whiskey.
The Art of Texas Whiskey
Garrison Brothers’ portfolio is anchored by a range of wheated bourbons, each offering a unique flavor profile. The distillery’s innovative cask finishes, such as the Laguna Madre (finished in French oak), Guadalupe (finished in port casks), and Lady Bird (finished in Cognac barrels), have earned it a reputation for pushing the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making.
The Ranch Reserve Series continues this tradition of innovation, with the whiskeys undergoing lengthy finishes that can be considered secondary maturations. This meticulous process results in whiskeys that are not only unique but also of the highest quality. With about 6,000 bottles of each expression available, whiskey enthusiasts have a limited opportunity to experience these exceptional offerings.
