Green River Distilling Co., a cornerstone of Kentucky’s bourbon legacy since 1885, is gearing up to launch a whiskey that’s as much about honor as it is about flavor. To mark the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary, the distillery has crafted a limited-edition bourbon that pays tribute to the soldiers who’ve shaped the nation’s history. This isn’t just another bottle on the shelf—it’s a celebration of courage, a nod to tradition, and a way to give back to those who serve. Set to hit select shelves on June 14, 2025, this release is already generating buzz among bourbon fans, collectors, and patriots.
The U.S. Army was founded on June 14, 1775, before the United States was even officially a nation. That date marked a pivotal moment when the colonies took a stand for freedom, forming an army that would fight for independence and continue to protect the country for two and a half centuries. Green River Distilling Co., known as the 10th oldest licensed distillery in Kentucky (DSP-KY-10), has a deep connection to this history. With roots stretching back to the late 19th century, the distillery has long been tied to the military, making it the perfect choice to create the official bourbon for the Army’s milestone anniversary.
What makes this release stand out is its thoughtful craftsmanship. The bourbon is bottled at a unique 111.1 proof, a deliberate tribute to Veterans Day on November 11 (11/11). This “Army Strong” proof gives the whiskey a bold character that mirrors the resilience of the soldiers it honors. The liquid itself is a small-batch blend of barrels aged between four and seven years, made from a mashbill of 77% corn, 14% rye, and 9% malted barley. The result is a full-bodied Kentucky bourbon with a rich, complex flavor profile. Sip it, and you’ll taste caramel sweetness, black cherry tartness, cocoa depth, and a hint of peppermint freshness. The mouthfeel is thick with toffee and toasted oak, leading to a lightly spiced finish that lingers just long enough to leave an impression.
This bourbon isn’t just about what’s in the glass—it’s about what it represents. Green River has partnered officially with the U.S. Army to create a bottle that embodies the spirit of service. The whiskey comes in the distillery’s iconic horseshoe-shaped bottle, but this time it’s dressed in the Army’s colors and adorned with details that nod to its 250-year legacy. It’s a collector’s dream, but it’s also a meaningful way to show support. A portion of every bottle sold goes directly to programs that improve the lives of soldiers and their families, funding things like wellness initiatives, sports programs, libraries, and recreational activities. Green River’s parent company, Lofted Spirits, already supports military causes like the Special Operations Warrior Foundation and USA Cares, so this charitable angle feels like a natural extension of their mission.
The release is set to debut on June 14, 2025, coinciding with the Army’s birthday. It’ll be available at select retailers, military bases, and Green River’s distilleries in Owensboro and Louisville, Kentucky, with a suggested retail price of $49.99. You’ll also find it at certain online stores, but with limited quantities, it’s likely to sell out fast. Bourbon enthusiasts and those with ties to the military will want to act quickly to snag a bottle. For the latest details on where to find it, Green River has set up a dedicated page at https://greenriverwhiskey.com/army-250th-anniversary/.
Col. (ret.) Mark Erwin, CEO of Lofted Spirits, summed up the project’s significance: “This whiskey is a salute to 250 years of courage, #commitment, and sacrifice.” As a veteran himself, Erwin knows what it means to serve, and his words carry weight. He sees this bourbon as a way to toast not just the Army’s past but the millions of men and women who’ve defended the nation’s freedoms. That sentiment runs through every aspect of the release, from the carefully chosen proof to the charitable contributions.
Green River’s history adds another layer of meaning to the project. Known as “the Whiskey Without Regrets,” the distillery has been a fixture in Owensboro, Kentucky, since its founding. It’s the westernmost stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, blending old-school tradition with a modern, approachable vibe. Reintroduced in 2022 after a period of dormancy, Green River has quickly reclaimed its place among America’s top whiskey makers. Its portfolio is built on historic mashbills, designed to deliver smooth, high-quality bourbon that doesn’t need to be fussy to be great. This anniversary release fits right into that ethos, offering a whiskey that’s both a tribute and a damn good drink.
For bourbon lovers, the U.S. Army 250th Anniversary bottle is a chance to own a piece of history. For those with military ties, it’s a way to honor service while supporting active-duty soldiers and their families. And for anyone who appreciates a well-made whiskey, it’s a bold, flavorful pour that tells a story with every sip. When June 14 rolls around, this bottle will be more than just a drink—it’ll be a toast to bravery, a nod to tradition, and a reminder of what makes America strong.
