Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey has unveiled a series of officially licensed America250 commemorative releases to mark the United States’ 250th anniversary. The limited-edition lineup from Heaven Hill Brands arrives on shelves May 2026, ahead of the nation’s Semiquincentennial milestone in July.
The collection comprises three expressions, each featuring patriotic packaging that highlights the brand’s historical connection to America’s founding. In 1783, the same year the United States formalized its independence at the end of the Revolutionary War, Evan Williams became Kentucky’s first licensed distiller.
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“Evan Williams has always been intertwined with American history,” said Max Shapira, executive chairman of Heaven Hill Brands. “As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation, we are honored to celebrate this historic moment with a collection that reflects the spirit, perseverance, and craftsmanship that define both our country and our bourbon.”
Shapira added: “These special releases are a tribute to where we’ve been and a toast to the future.”
The America250 lineup includes Evan Williams Black Label (86 proof) in a 1.75L format at $24.99, Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch (90 proof) in 1.75L ($37.99) and 750ml ($23.99), and Evan Williams Single Barrel at a special higher proof of 117.76, drawn from a limited selection of 250 barrels at $39.99.
The Single Barrel expression is hand-dipped in blue wax to complement the bottle’s depiction of the Statue of Liberty. The Black Label and 1783 Small Batch bottles highlight the brand’s origins and its ties to American heritage.
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Alongside the commemorative releases, Evan Williams announced a new partnership with nonprofit Folds of Honor, including a $75,000 donation to provide educational scholarships to families of fallen or disabled U.S. service members and first responders. The brand has contributed over $750,000 to veteran-focused initiatives over the past decade.
“America250 is proud to collaborate with iconic American brands like Evan Williams that embody the heritage and values we seek to celebrate,” said Jen Condon, executive vice president of America250. “This partnership helps bring the Semiquincentennial to life for consumers across the country, inspiring reflection, pride, and participation in this historic moment.”
Evan Williams holds the position of the world’s second-largest-selling bourbon and serves as the flagship brand of Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. The brand has expanded its consumer-facing presence in recent years through its Bourbon Nation college athletics partnership with Learfield, which spans programs including the University of Florida, Ohio State University, and the University of Alabama.
The America250 releases will be available nationwide through standard retail channels.
