Every now and then, Garrison Brothers releases one of the most highly-coveted bourbon whiskies in America: Cowboy Bourbon. This was the American Whiskey of the Year in Jim Murray’s 2014 & 2017 Whisky Bibles. It’s the ultimate ambrosia. Unlike the Small Batch, The Cowboy comes from Dan and Donnis’ favorite barrels. They’re set aside for a couple of years for further maturation and the liquid is bottled at cask-strength, uncut and unfiltered.
It takes a special barrel to create a bourbon nectar sweet enough to be enjoyed at such a high proof. The potency normally overpowers the flavor. This ain’t the case with the Cowboy – it’s so sweet, the flavor overpowers its proof. And you can thank the Texas heat for that.
But as delicious as it all sounds, make sure you proceed with caution; barrel-proof bourbon is not for everyone. It should always be savored in moderation. For something strong enough to run a car engine, the finish is incredibly smooth. While surprising, maybe it ought not be, as that restraint makes it ideal for summertime drinking. This stuff was heat-forged in Texas, after all.
“Four years in Texas evidently equates to 23 in Kentucky: there’s a Geography lesson for you.”
- Jim Murray