Introducing Sonora, the newest limited-edition bourbon expression from Garrison Brothers, a spirit that embodies the wild beauty and untamed spirit of Texas. This exceptional, seven-year-old bourbon is a tribute to the state's natural wonders, from its scorching summers to the magnificent Caverns of Sonora. With only 6,000 bottles in this 2025 release, this is a rare and collectible bourbon. Find this rich and layered bourbon through our preferred online retail partner, Nestor Liquor.
Every drop of Sonora is crafted grain-to-glass at the distillery in Hye, Texas. The journey begins with Garrison's signature wheated bourbon, which is aged for four years in new white American oak barrels. It is then finished for an additional three years in rye whiskey casks, creating a unique and complex flavor profile. This project was guided by Samantha Olvera, the first female Latina in Texas to craft bourbon from grain-to-glass, making this release a true testament to collaboration and craftsmanship. Each bottle is hand-dipped in a striking ruby-red wax.
Charitable Partner: $5 from every bottle is donated to the Texas Cave Management Association.
Brand History: The Original Texas Bourbon
Garrison Brothers Distillery, founded by Dan Garrison in Hye, Texas, holds the distinction of being the first legal bourbon distillery established in Texas. They are renowned for their uncompromising "grain-to-glass" approach, using locally sourced Texas ingredients and harnessing the relentless Texas climate for a flavor and maturity far beyond the years spent in the barrel. The Sonora release continues their legacy of innovation and their deep connection to the Lone Star State.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Sweet and Spice
The unique, seven-year, dual-cask maturation creates a rich and beautifully complex flavor profile:
Nose: Rich aromas of sweet corn, oak, and rye spices mingle with vanilla and butterscotch, followed by a bouquet of citrus zest, almond tea, and wildflower honey.
Palate: The palate bursts with the bold spice of black pepper and cinnamon, which then softens into a rich, layered profile of toasted oak and lingering sweetness.
Finish: An exceptionally long and satisfying finish of brown sugar and crème brûlée.
Why You'll Love Sonora Bourbon:
A Bourbon with a Cause: $5 from every bottle is donated to the Texas Cave Management Association to safeguard the stunning Caverns of Sonora.
Unique Rye Cask Finish: A rare three-year finish in rye whiskey casks adds a bold, spicy dimension to the smooth, sweet character of their wheated bourbon.
A True Taste of Texas: Crafted grain-to-glass in Hye, Texas, with locally sourced ingredients, this is an authentic expression of Texas terroir.
Seven Scorching Summers: The full seven-year maturation in the Texas heat creates a deep complexity and a maturity that is wise beyond its years.
This is a bourbon that celebrates the rugged, natural beauty of Texas in every complex sip. Contact Nestor Liquor today to inquire about securing a bottle of the new Garrison Brothers Sonora.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: How does finishing in a rye cask affect a wheated bourbon?
A: Finishing a wheated bourbon (known for its soft, sweet profile) in a rye whiskey cask (known for its spicy, peppery character) creates a unique "best of both worlds" profile. It allows the bourbon to retain its underlying sweetness while adding a bold layer of spice and complexity.
Q: What is the Texas Cave Management Association?
A: It is an organization dedicated to the study, conservation, and preservation of caves and cave resources in Texas, including the magnificent Caverns of Sonora, which this bourbon is named in honor of.
Q: Is this a limited release?
A: Yes, as a special, uniquely finished expression with a charitable partnership, Garrison Brothers Sonora is a limited release of only 6,000 bottles for 2025.
Q: How is this different from other Garrison Brothers bourbons like Guadalupe?
A: The key difference is the finishing cask. Sonora is finished for three years in rye whiskey casks, giving it a spicy character. Guadalupe is finished in Port wine casks, which imparts a rich, sweet, dark fruit flavor.
Q: Where can I purchase Garrison Brothers Sonora?
A: This is a limited and sought-after release. We recommend contacting our preferred retail partner, Nestor Liquor, to inquire about their inventory and availability.
