Each year, we take immense pride in honoring the brave men and women who have served in the military on Veterans Day. This year, we’re continuing our tradition in a new way: A barrel pick, chosen by our Veterans who work at Heaven Hill, resulting in our 2025 Veterans Day Evan Williams Single Barrel bottle, which will be given as our 2025 Veterans Day gift. This Spring we invited our U.S.-based Veterans to enter for a chance to participate in the special barrel pick.

On April 29, the five Veterans who were randomly selected joined our Chief Human Resources Tony Georges at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience for a meaningful and memorable day. More than just a tasting, the event was a tribute to service, camaraderie, and the lasting impact Veterans have made—and continue to make—throughout our organization.

The group sampled three barrels, each with unique qualities, all proofed to 111.1 for consistency. The final decision came down to a close tie between two barrels, but the winner was a 127.8-proof Bourbon from T warehouse’s 5th floor (distilled July 11, 2015), that ultimately won the vote. Afterward, the group enjoyed a meal together at Five Brothers Bar & Kitchen, reflecting on their experiences and the meaning behind the moment.

Each participant brought their own story of service and perspective to the table:

1. Rick Logan, U.S. Army Reserve Veteran who served at Fort Knox during the Gulf War, described the experience as an honor and privilege. He felt proud to be part of selecting a barrel that will represent Veterans across the company—a gesture he found deeply meaningful.
2. Tony Georges, who served in the U.S. Army from 1986 to 1989, shared that he would dedicate this Veterans Day bottle to the men and women currently serving, doing vital work that often goes unnoticed by the public.
3. Tyler Jones, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran of five years, said his favorite part of the day was simply enjoying the process—sampling different Bourbons and connecting with fellow Vets.
4. Bobby Lee, who served in the U.S. Air Force until 1991, expressed gratitude that Heaven Hill doesn’t just employ Veterans, but actively respects and values them. He said it’s rare to find a company that shows such genuine consideration, and he’s proud to be part of it.
5. JJ Nesbit, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran who served from 1999 to 2006, emphasized how special it will be to share this bottle of Bourbon on Veteran’s Day with his fellow Marines and other Veteran brothers.
6. Logan King, who served in the Kentucky Army National Guard from 2015 to 2022, appreciated seeing Veterans represented at every level of the company as a special reminder that their impact is felt in every corner of our organization.

The day served as a powerful reminder of the diversity, strength, and spirit of our Veteran community. It also highlighted how the beloved brands we produce become true moments of connection.

This year’s Veterans Day gift will carry with it more than just exceptional Bourbon: It will represent the dedication, sacrifice, and pride of Veterans across Heaven Hill. As we head into Memorial Day weekend, we thank all Veterans—past and present—for their unwavering service, sacrifice, and example. We look forward to celebrating Veterans Day again this Fall!