Jefferson's Bourbon and West Overton Distillery Unveil Historic Spirits for US 250th

Jefferson's Bourbon introduced its limited‑edition Founder’s Reserve 20‑Year‑Old, aged two decades and finished in French Bordeaux wine casks. The launch took place aboard the historic tall ship Oosterschelde at South Street Seaport’s Pier 17 in New York City on July 7, as part of the Sail4th celebration of America’s semiquincentennial. Founder Trey Zoeller guided guests through the tasting, which also featured oysters, caviar and a pour from the brand’s ocean‑aged barrel series.

In Pennsylvania, West Overton Village distillery revived a historic cherry bounce – a sweet cherry‑flavored whiskey cordial dating back to 16th‑century England. Using Dad’s Hat rye whiskey, Michigan‑grown cherry concentrate, sugar syrup and spices, the distillery produced the first 250 bottles with commemorative “America 250” tags. The drink, sold for $45, joins the site’s cocktail menu and celebrates the United States’ 250th birthday while honoring the Overholt family’s legacy.

Both releases tie the craft‑spirits industry to the nation’s 250‑year anniversary, blending historic recipes with modern marketing.