Four American whiskey producers, J. Mattingly 1845, Heritage Distilling, Four Branches Bourbon, and Pursuit Spirits, have collaborated on a one-of-a-kind ‘United We Stand’ military barrel. The unique expression, blended by Pursuit Spirits, will be auctioned at the inaugural Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction on February 14, 2026, with proceeds benefiting the Bob Woodruff Foundation.
The project was created from barrels donated by each of the four producers.
Ryan Cecil, master blender for Pursuit Spirits, then selected and blended elements from each contribution to create the final whiskey.
The ‘United We Stand’ barrel is an anchor lot for the first Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration (KBCA), which will take place during the weekend of February 13-15.
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“This barrel represents everything the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration stands for, unity, craftsmanship and purpose,” said Andrew Varga, founder of the KBCA.
“Four respected producers, each with their own identity and legacy, have come together in service of something bigger than themselves,” Varga continued.
“In America’s 250th anniversary year, this collaboration honors our nation’s origins, our military’s shared sacrifice and the idea that we are strongest when we stand together for a common cause.”
The event is timed to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the United States, with proceeds supporting veterans, service members, and their families.
“Developing this expression has been a highlight of my career,” noted Cecil. “Bringing together these incredible distillers and our own Pursuit United barrel resulted in a beautifully balanced harmony.”
Cecil added: “Narrowing down the barrels was a challenge, but the end result is a pour I’m incredibly proud of.”
In addition to the barrel auction, each participating distiller will release 100 individual bottles.
The limited-edition bottles will feature a commemorative label and have a suggested retail price of $250.
The four producers involved in the project have a long history of philanthropic work.
J. Mattingly 1845, Heritage Distilling, and Four Branches Bourbon have collectively donated millions of dollars over the years to more than 50 military and veteran organizations.
Past beneficiaries of their support have included Folds of Honor, Disabled American Veterans, the Navy SEAL Foundation, the Green Beret Foundation, and the Combat Infantry Badge Association.
The ‘United We Stand’ barrel joins several other high-profile lots previously announced for the auction.
Other experiences and products available will include an Elijah Craig Single Barrel experience at Heaven Hill Distillery, a Four Roses private selection barrel pick, and an Old Forester Single Barrel, Barrel Strength Selection Experience.
Additional lots include 12 bottles of King of Kentucky Small Batch and a signed bottle of the 2002 Old Forester Birthday Bourbon first release.
