A pseudo-limited whiskey from Green River Distillery, U.S. Army 250th Anniversary Bourbon is a solid release that’s worth seeking out for bourbon fans with a connection to the bottle’s purpose.
Green River U.S. Army 250th Anniversary is a limited-edition Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey created in partnership with the U.S. Army to commemorate 250 years of service. This official anniversary release combines carefully selected bourbon barrels aged between four and seven years and is presented in Green River’s distinctive horseshoe-shaped bottle with commemorative Army detailing.
Bottled at a powerful 111.1 proof, or 55.55% ABV, the strength pays tribute to Veterans Day on 11 November. The bourbon offers rich notes of caramel, black cherry, cocoa and peppermint, followed by toffee, toasted oak and warming spice. Its bold strength, historic presentation and one-off commemorative character make it an impressive release for bourbon enthusiasts and collectors of U.S. military memorabilia.
Green River Distilling Co. changed up the formula for this commemorative bottling by using a different mashbill than their standard product, along with blending to create a different flavour profile. The result is a consumer-friendly bourbon that’s built on a traditional bourbon flavour profile with hints of unique flavours. The most notable of these is the mix of seared mint, anise, and orange zest on the nose, black cherry on the palate, and orange jam on the finish. These flavours add a subtle yet notable dimension to the bourbon, which is a very easy-drinking, crowd-pleasing experience.
About Green River
Green River has produced bourbon for over 140 years
Green River Distilling Co. in Owensboro, Kentucky, is more than just a distillery; it's a testament to resilience. Its history is a compelling narrative of ambition, disaster, and eventual rebirth, mirroring the very spirit of American whiskey. The distillery's journey from its 19th-century glory to its modern-day revival makes it a must-know story for any bourbon enthusiast.
Once the most widely advertised whiskey in the world, Green River was known for its exceptional quality earning it the title “The Whiskey Without A Headache.” The brand was so highly regarded, Green River served as the official whiskey of the U.S. Marine Hospital for 18 years. After Prohibition, when whiskey was no longer considered medicinal or allowed to make any claims, the brand changed its slogan to “The Whiskey Without Regrets” however is still known to produce some of the finest bourbon in all the land.
Founded in 1885 by John W. McCulloch, the distillery was originally known as the Eagle Distillery before McCulloch purchased it and renamed it. He quickly established the Green River brand as a symbol of quality, and it became a highly sought-after whiskey, even winning international acclaim. The company's slogan, "The Whiskey Without A Headache," spoke to its premium quality and purity in an era when moonshiners and unregulated spirits were common. One of the most legendary stories from this time involves 20 barrels of Green River whiskey being traded for an interest in a Colorado gold mine, an exchange that earned it the nickname "the most expensive spirit ever sold."
But this golden era was short-lived. In 1918, a devastating fire consumed the distillery, destroying its buildings and over 40,000 barrels of whiskey. This disaster, followed by the onset of Prohibition, relegated the Green River brand to history for many years.
After Prohibition ended, the distillery was rebuilt, but the original Green River brand was sold off. The site changed hands multiple times throughout the 20th century, operating under various names and owners, including the Medley family, until it was abandoned in 1993. For over two decades, the once-glorious site sat in disrepair, a ghost of its former self.
The story of its revival began in 2014 when Terressentia Corporation purchased the dilapidated property. They embarked on an ambitious, multi-million dollar renovation, bringing the distillery back to life. They initially operated under the name O.Z. Tyler Distillery, honouring a key figure in their new venture. In 2016, whiskey production resumed on the hallowed grounds for the first time in over 20 years.
In 2020, history came full circle. After years of work, the company secured the rights to the Green River brand and officially renamed the distillery Green River Distilling Co. The rebranding was a momentous occasion, celebrating the return of one of Owensboro's most storied distilleries. The company worked closely with Rob McCulloch, the great-grandson of the original founder, to ensure the new Green River would honor its rich heritage.
Today, Green River Distilling Co. is a vibrant hub on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. . Under the guidance of master distiller Jacob Call, they produce a line of bourbons and rye whiskeys that are gaining national recognition. The distillery offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to experience the "most expensive spirit ever sold" and witness its remarkable journey from ashes to a new golden age.
55.5% ABV
75cl
