Is Horse Soldier Bourbon a Kentucky bourbon? Horse Soldier Bourbon is proudly crafted in the heart of Kentucky, specifically Somerset-Pulaski County. This region, known as the Bluegrass state, is renowned for its rich history and tradition of producing some of the finest bourbons in the world.
But what exactly makes a bourbon a “Kentucky bourbon”? Well, there are a few key requirements that must be met. First and foremost, it must be produced in the state of Kentucky. This is a fundamental requirement that ensures the authenticity and heritage of Kentucky bourbon.
Secondly, it must be made from a grain mixture that is at least 51% corn. This is a crucial element that gives bourbon its distinct flavor profile. The remaining grains can include a variety of options such as barley, rye, and wheat, which contribute to the unique character of each bourbon.
Furthermore, Kentucky bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak barrels. This aging process imparts flavors and aromas from the wood, adding complexity and depth to the spirit. The length of time the bourbon spends in the barrel will also influence its taste, as it allows the flavors to mellow and develop over time.
Horse Soldier Bourbon meets all of these criteria and more. Our bourbon is crafted using a meticulous process that pays homage to the traditional methods of Kentucky bourbon production. We carefully select the finest grains, with a high percentage of locally grown corn, to ensure a truly authentic Kentucky flavor.
Our bourbon is then aged in new, charred American oak barrels, allowing it to develop its unique characteristics over time. This aging process imparts notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, creating a smooth and well-balanced bourbon that is truly representative of Kentucky's bourbon heritage.
But Horse Soldier Bourbon is more than just a bourbon made in Kentucky. It is a testament to the resilience and bravery of our nation's heroes. The name “Horse Soldier” pays tribute to the members of the U.S. Special Forces who rode on horseback during the initial stages of the war in Afghanistan. These soldiers, also known as the “Horse Soldiers,” demonstrated courage and ingenuity in the face of adversity, much like the pioneers of Kentucky bourbon.
In fact, the story behind Horse Soldier Bourbon is deeply intertwined with the history of the Horse Soldiers themselves. After the tragic events of 9/11, a group of U.S. Special Forces soldiers from the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) answered the call to duty and deployed to Afghanistan. During their mission, they found themselves riding on horseback through the rugged terrain of the Afghan mountains, just as their predecessors did during the early stages of the war.
Inspired by the bravery and tenacity of these soldiers, the founders of Horse Soldier Bourbon set out to create a bourbon that embodies the same spirit of courage and determination. They brought their expertise and passion for bourbon back to Kentucky, where they established their distillery in Somerset-Pulaski County.
Today, Horse Soldier Bourbon stands as a symbol of American resilience and craftsmanship. Every bottle of our bourbon is a testament to the unwavering spirit of our nation's heroes and the timeless traditions of Kentucky bourbon.
Horse Soldier Bourbon is indeed a Kentucky bourbon. It meets all the necessary criteria and is crafted with the same dedication and expertise that has made Kentucky bourbon world-famous. But it is more than just a bourbon; it is a tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country and a celebration of the rich heritage of Kentucky bourbon.