Austin-based Big Hat Spirits, created by locals Mike Appel and Troy Geyer, was launched with a focus on bringing the best, super-premium, better-for-you, ready-to-drink cocktails (and mocktails) to market. Made with super-premium spirits, smooth-tasting kombucha, real fruits and spices, the cocktails use only the freshest ingredients and are free of syrups, gluten, GMOs, and anything artificial – which make it a treat to have readily available in their new namesake lounge at Texas Memorial Stadium during Longhorn home games. The brand was inspired by Texas music legend Jerry Jeff Walker’s song, Man with the Big Hat. The song portrays a story of people at a bar joyfully gathering around a legendary cowboy figure, The Man with the Big Hat, listening and hanging on every word of his cherished tales of cowboy life; tales worthy of being remembered.
It was through this song and a sense of Texas cultural preservation that Big Hat Spirits was born with a mission to honor the legends, the men and women in our lives that “wear the big hat”, and to keep their stories alive in all of us.
Inside their new lounge patrons experience unique tributes to Texas songwriting and sports legends and get immersed into many of Austin’s iconic hangout spots. The Big Hat founders say they wanted to bring Longhorn nation the most fun, unique fan experience imaginable so they took inspiration from some of Austin’s favorites like Deep Eddy Cabaret, Donn’s Depot, and The Saxon Pub. This “mash-up” of local, legendary places created a collective Gameday vibe fitting for everyone to enjoy. The space was designed by “Yellowstone” creator Taylor Sheridan’s Chief Set Decorator, Carla features local musicians and DJs, Big Hat cocktails and mocktails, and an 85” jumbotron to watch the game.
