Old Hillside Bourbon Company has released a new limited-edition whiskey, the Harlem Hellfighters Blend. The bourbon was created to honor Black History Month and pay tribute to the 369th Infantry Regiment, the first African American infantry unit to fight in World War I.
The bourbon was finished for 191 days in French oak wine barrels, matching the exact number of days the regiment served on the front lines. The barrels were sourced from the same region in France where the Hellfighters fought.
Known as the Harlem Hellfighters, the 369th Infantry Regiment served with distinction, spending more time in continuous combat than any other American unit of its size.
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READ THE STORYThe release features three custom labels, each honoring a notable veteran from the regiment: bandleader James Reese Europe, decorated soldier Henry Johnson, and Benjamin O. Davis Sr., who later became the first African American general in the U.S. Army.
“This partnership isn’t just about whiskey. It’s about honoring a legacy of valor, sacrifice, and resilience,” said Jesse Carpenter, chief product officer of Old Hillside Bourbon.
“The Harlem Hellfighters fought longer and harder than nearly any American unit in WWI, and this collaboration allows us to preserve their story while supporting veterans who continue to serve today,” Carpenter added.
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A portion of the sale proceeds will be donated to the Whiskey Valor Foundation, an organization that supports veterans and their families.
According to the official notes from the brand, the whiskey pours a “warm, deep amber.” The nose has notes of “honeyed grain and delicate vanilla” with “gentle red-fruit accents and soft oak.”
The palate is described as “mellow and approachable, with smooth caramel and light brown sugar balanced by a restrained whisper of rye spice.” The finish lingers with “warm oak, soft spice and a refined Pinot Noir echo.”
Bottled at 56% ABV, the Harlem Hellfighters Bourbon is available in a 750ml format with a suggested retail price of $110 per bottle.
