Breckenridge Distillery and University of Denver Athletics have released a limited-edition Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey commemorating the Denver Pioneers’ 2026 NCAA Men’s Ice Hockey National Championship. The 230-bottle release, bottled at 101.7 proof, launched on 29 October 2026, with $179.99 (£135) from each sale directing $100 (£75) to the Denver Men’s Ice Hockey Scholarship.
The Colorado-based distillery, a subsidiary of Tilray Brands, created the bourbon from a single barrel selected alongside Denver Athletics supporters.
The commemorative bottling honors Denver’s record 11th national championship, which the Pioneers secured on 11 April 2026 with a victory over Wisconsin in Las Vegas.
What Will Whisky Look Like in 2027? Voices from Whisky Live Paris
READ THE STORYDenver holds the all-time record of 11 national titles, including four in the past decade across 2017, 2022, 2024, and 2026. Under head coach David Carle, the program has claimed three championships in five years.
“Denver hockey’s tradition of excellence reflects the same values we bring to every bottle we make: dedication, craftsmanship and pride in representing Colorado at the highest level,” said Bryan Nolt, founder and CEO of Breckenridge Distillery. “Having DU Athletics supporters join us in the barrel room to help select this whiskey made the process truly collaborative, and knowing the proceeds will support the next generation of Denver hockey players makes this release even more meaningful.”
The partnership invited a group of supporters to the distillery for a behind-the-scenes barrel room experience. Participants toured the facility, learned about the whiskey-making process and evaluated barrels before helping choose the final single barrel.
Trending Content
Josh Berlo, vice chancellor for athletics and Ritchie Center operations, described the title as “a special moment in Denver Athletics history.”
“To have a significant portion of the proceeds go towards hockey scholarships makes this a full circle commemoration and empowering future national success for the legacy and tradition that is Denver hockey,” he said.
Tim Thompson, a University of Denver alumnus and DU Athletics supporter, said the group was “welcomed with open arms” at the distillery.
Produced under master distiller Hans Stafsholt, the grain-to-glass release carries official tasting notes from the brand of balanced oak spice, caramel and brown sugar on the nose, followed by a creamy palate of caramel, brown sugar, cinnamon and a hint of black pepper.
The whiskey is available at Bonnie Brae Liquor and Mondo Vino in Denver.
