Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon vs Shire Distilling Percheron Straight Bourbon
When it comes to the world of bourbon, each bottle tells a unique story, not just through its flavor but through its origin, aging process, and the craftsmanship behind it. Today, we’re diving into a comparison between two standout bourbons: Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon vs Shire Distilling Percheron Straight Bourbon. These two bottles might share the label of “straight bourbon,” but they couldn’t be more different in their profiles, offering distinct experiences for the discerning palate.
Whether you’re a fan of rich, bold flavors or prefer something with a bit more floral and fruity nuance, this comparison will help you decide which one deserves a spot on your shelf. Let’s uncork the details and see how these two bourbons stack up against each other.
Introduction to Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon
History and Background
Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon, a renowned name in the bourbon industry, has established itself as a hallmark of quality and craftsmanship. The Garrison Brothers Distillery, located in Hye, Texas, has been producing bourbon since 2006, making it one of the first legal bourbon distilleries in Texas. Named after Claudia “Lady Bird” Johnson, the Lady Bird Straight Bourbon is a tribute to the former First Lady’s legacy and her environmental efforts. The distillery prides itself on its small-batch production and commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, reflecting a deep connection to Texas’ rich heritage.
Production Process
The production of Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon involves meticulous attention to detail. The process begins with the selection of premium grains, including corn, wheat, and barley. These grains are milled and mashed before being fermented using a proprietary yeast strain. The mash is then distilled in copper pot stills, which contribute to the bourbon’s distinctive character.
The distilled spirit is aged in new American oak barrels, handcrafted and charred to perfection. The aging process in the Texas heat accelerates the interaction between the spirit and the wood, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile.
Popular Varieties
Garrison Brothers offers several varieties of their Lady Bird Straight Bourbon, each with unique characteristics. The flagship Lady Bird Bourbon is known for its smoothness and depth of flavor, while limited-edition releases, such as the Single Barrel and Cask Strength versions, provide enthusiasts with a more intense experience. These varieties highlight the distillery’s ability to innovate while maintaining the traditional bourbon-making process.
Introduction to Shire Distilling – Percheron Straight Bourbon
History and Background
Shire Distilling, the producer of Percheron Straight Bourbon, is another notable player in the bourbon industry. Based in Kentucky, Shire Distilling has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The Percheron Straight Bourbon is named after the Percheron horses, symbolizing strength and tradition. This bourbon reflects the distillery’s dedication to preserving the classic bourbon-making techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Production Process
The production process of Percheron Straight Bourbon is rooted in tradition. Shire Distilling uses a high-corn mash bill, which is fermented and distilled using time-honored methods. The distillation takes place in column stills, which ensure a consistent and pure spirit. The bourbon is then aged in new charred oak barrels for several years, allowing it to develop a complex and nuanced flavor profile. The barrels are stored in climate-controlled warehouses, ensuring optimal aging conditions.
Popular Varieties
Percheron Straight Bourbon is available in several expressions, catering to a range of tastes. The standard Percheron Bourbon is celebrated for its balance and smoothness, while the Single Barrel and Small Batch editions offer a more robust and intricate tasting experience. Shire Distilling also occasionally releases special editions that showcase unique aging processes or experimental mash bills, providing bourbon enthusiasts with a diverse array of choices.
Taste and Flavor Profiles
Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon Taste Profile
Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon is known for its rich and full-bodied flavor profile. On the nose, it offers notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, with subtle hints of spice and dried fruit. The palate is equally impressive, featuring a harmonious blend of sweet corn, toasted oak, and dark chocolate, complemented by a warm, spicy finish. The bourbon’s aging process in the Texas heat imparts a unique character, making it a favorite among connoisseurs.
Shire Distilling – Percheron Straight Bourbon Taste Profile
Percheron Straight Bourbon from Shire Distilling is characterized by its smooth and well-rounded flavor. The aroma is inviting, with scents of caramel, vanilla, and honey, underscored by a hint of rye spice. On the palate, the bourbon reveals flavors of butterscotch, toffee, and oak, with a touch of citrus and baking spices. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a pleasant warmth and a slight sweetness.
Comparison of Flavor Notes
When comparing the flavor profiles of Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon and Shire Distilling – Percheron Straight Bourbon, several key differences emerge. The Lady Bird Bourbon tends to have a bolder and more robust profile, with pronounced oak and spice notes due to the Texas aging process. In contrast, the Percheron Bourbon offers a smoother and more balanced experience, with a sweeter and lighter profile. Both bourbons provide a unique tasting journey, catering to different preferences.
Price and Value
Price Points for Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon
Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon is positioned as a premium product, reflecting its quality and craftsmanship. The standard Lady Bird Bourbon typically retails for around $80 to $100 per bottle, with the Single Barrel and Cask Strength editions commanding higher prices, often exceeding $150. Limited editions and special releases can be even more expensive, depending on their rarity and demand.
Price Points for Shire Distilling – Percheron Straight Bourbon
Shire Distilling’s Percheron Straight Bourbon is priced competitively within the premium bourbon market. The standard Percheron Bourbon generally sells for $50 to $70 per bottle, making it a more accessible option compared to Garrison Brothers. The Single Barrel and Small Batch editions are priced higher, ranging from $80 to $120, while special releases can vary significantly in price based on their uniqueness and availability.
Value for Money
In terms of value for money, both bourbons offer distinct advantages. Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon justifies its higher price point with its rich flavor profile and artisanal production methods. On the other hand, Percheron Straight Bourbon provides excellent quality at a more affordable price, making it an attractive option for those seeking a premium bourbon experience without the premium price tag.
Quality and Ingredients
Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon is renowned for its exceptional quality. The distillery’s commitment to using locally sourced, high-quality grains and traditional production methods ensures a superior product. The aging process in Texas’ unique climate further enhances the bourbon’s complexity, resulting in a rich and flavorful spirit that stands out in the market.
Shire Distilling’s Percheron Straight Bourbon is also highly regarded for its quality. The use of a high-corn mash bill and meticulous aging process in climate-controlled warehouses contribute to its smooth and balanced profile. The distillery’s dedication to preserving traditional bourbon-making techniques ensures that each bottle of Percheron Bourbon meets high standards of excellence.
Ingredient Comparison
Both Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon and Shire Distilling – Percheron Straight Bourbon use premium ingredients in their production. Garrison Brothers emphasizes locally sourced grains, including corn, wheat, and barley, while Shire Distilling focuses on a high-corn mash bill with select grains. The choice of ingredients and their quality significantly influence the final flavor profiles of these bourbons, with each distillery bringing its unique touch to the production process.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon Customer Feedback
Customer feedback for Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon is overwhelmingly positive. Enthusiasts praise its bold and complex flavor, with many highlighting its rich oak and spice notes. The bourbon’s smoothness and depth are also frequently mentioned, making it a favorite among seasoned bourbon drinkers. Some customers note the higher price point but often justify it with the exceptional quality and unique Texas character.
Shire Distilling – Percheron Straight Bourbon Customer Feedback
Shire Distilling’s Percheron Straight Bourbon also enjoys favorable reviews from customers. Many appreciate its smooth and balanced profile, with flavors of butterscotch and vanilla being particularly popular. The bourbon’s affordability compared to other premium brands is often highlighted, making it a popular choice for those seeking quality without breaking the bank. Some reviews mention a preference for the Single Barrel and Small Batch editions due to their enhanced complexity.
Overall Customer Satisfaction
Overall, both Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon and Shire Distilling – Percheron Straight Bourbon achieve high customer satisfaction. Garrison Brothers is praised for its bold and distinctive flavor, while Percheron Bourbon is celebrated for its smoothness and value for money. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and budget considerations, with each offering a unique and enjoyable bourbon experience.
Conclusion
Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon and Shire Distilling – Percheron Straight Bourbon each offer unique characteristics that appeal to different bourbon enthusiasts. Garrison Brothers stands out with its bold, complex flavor profile and artisanal production methods, while Shire Distilling provides a smoother, more accessible bourbon experience with a strong emphasis on tradition. Price-wise, Garrison Brothers is positioned as a premium product, whereas Percheron Bourbon offers excellent value for its quality.
Which Brand Stands Out?
Determining which brand stands out ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities. For those seeking a rich, bold bourbon with a unique Texas influence, Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Straight Bourbon is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a smooth, well-balanced bourbon with a nod to traditional methods and great value, Shire Distilling – Percheron Straight Bourbon is hard to beat. Both brands bring exceptional quality and craftsmanship to the table, ensuring a satisfying bourbon experience regardless of your choice.
FAQs
Disclosure: Our blog contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.
