Texas’ first legal bourbon distillery strikes a major distribution deal that could reshape the American whiskey landscape as craft producers seek wider market access.
Texas Whiskey Maker Expands National Reach
Garrison Brothers Distillery has appointed Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits as its national distributor, marking a significant expansion for the Hye, Texas-based bourbon producer. The partnership, effective August 1, 2025, represents a strategic move for the craft distillery that broke ground as Texas’ first legal bourbon operation in 2006.
The deal comes as American craft distilleries increasingly partner with major distributors to compete with established Kentucky bourbon houses. Southern Glazer’s is the largest wine and spirits distributor in the United States and manages distribution for numerous premium brands across all 50 states.
“From the incredible turn-key process with Southern Glazer’s transition team to the excitement and their notable expertise, this great partnership sets up Garrison Brothers for years of continued success,” said Drew Pennington, Vice President of Sales at Garrison Brothers.
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Founded by Dan and Nancy Garrison, the distillery produces eight bourbon expressions using a corn-to-cork process, meaning they control production from grain to bottle. Their portfolio has earned more than 700 awards since the first release hit shelves in 2010.
The official tasting notes for their expressions highlight the influence of Texas’ extreme temperature swings on the aging process, which accelerates maturation compared to Kentucky’s milder climate. This results in what the distillery describes as bold, robust flavor profiles unique to Texas bourbon.
Garrison Brothers currently distributes in five countries alongside its domestic presence. The Southern Glazer’s partnership positions the brand to expand beyond its current markets, potentially challenging the dominance of traditional bourbon regions.
The craft spirits sector has seen consolidation in recent years as smaller producers seek efficient routes to market. For Garrison Brothers, this distribution agreement could accelerate growth while maintaining its identity as an authentic Texas bourbon producer. The distillery remains active in Hill Country communities including Blanco, Fredericksburg, and Johnson City.
