Kentucky Distillers Honoring Veterans & First Responders

Pegasus
Nov 11, 2025
3 min read

On November 11th, as we honor our veterans, it's worth noting that many Kentucky distilleries—including some veteran-owned businesses operating in the state—show their appreciation for military members and first responders. Their support comes in various forms, such as exclusive releases, donations to relevant charities, and hosting commemorative gatherings.

See ways that you can contribute to this worthy cause....

Purchase a Special Spirit

Looking for a bottle to purchase to thank a veteran or first responder? Click on the links below to find some amazing spirits!

Four Branches Bourbon

This company was founded by four military veterans from the Army, Navy, Marines, and Air Force. They partner with the Bardstown Bourbon Company in Bardstown, Kentucky, to produce their whiskey. Four Branches creates special releases that commemorate military anniversaries and donates a portion of sales to veteran and first responder non-profits. Learn more.

Horse Soldier Bourbon

The founders of this brand are former U.S. Special Forces veterans and members of the "Horse Soldiers" team that deployed to Afghanistan immediately after 9/11. Each bottle of their bourbon is pressed by steel from the Twin Towers, and they broke ground for a new distillery experience in Somerset, Kentucky, in 2021. Learn more.

Kentucky Distilleries with Tribute Programs

These local distilleries have created programs where a portion of the proceeds from commemorative bottles go to programs like the Kentucky Wounded Soldiers.

Green River Distilling Co. (Owensboro)

This distillery partnered with the U.S. Army to release a special 250th Anniversary Limited Edition Bourbon in 2025. Bottled at 111.1 proof in honor of Veterans Day (11/11), a portion of the proceeds goes to support U.S. Army Morale, Welfare, and Recreation programs. Green River also offers free custom military tribute labels for a personalized gift. Learn more.

J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery (Frankfort)

The distillery frequently releases commemorative bourbons to honor military veterans. For Memorial Day 2024, they released a limited-edition Mogadishu Mile commemorative bottling, with a portion of the proceeds supporting Kentucky Wounded Warriors. Learn more.

Evan Williams Bourbon Experience (Louisville)

Operated by Heaven Hill, this brand has a long-standing "American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund". For over a decade, Evan Williams has featured special-edition labels recognizing veterans and has supported the foundation through its sales. Learn more.

Jeptha Creed Distillery (Shelbyville)

Owned by a mother-and-daughter duo, this distillery regularly releases a special "Red, White & Blue Bourbon". Part of the proceeds from these releases supports non-profits that assist veterans, first responders, and animals in need. Learn more.

Other Notable Efforts

Responder Bourbon

Produced in collaboration with Bardstown Bourbon Company, this brand directs a portion of its proceeds to charities that support the families of police, fire, and EMS personnel. Learn more.

Heritage Distilling Co. (Washington-based with Kentucky products)

The company, which produces Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye, created a "Service to America Salute™ Whiskey" edition for Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Each purchase supports DAV's program. Learn more.

Conclusion

So, let's raise a glass to remember and honor all of our veterans and first responders on this Veteran's Day....and send a bottle to your favorite veteran!

DID YOU KNOW?

Pegasus Tours offers both private and group bourbon tours! And they have special rates with The Galt House Hotel.

Note: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not represent any endorsement by Pegasus.

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