Wigle Whiskey has announced the release of its 2026 Runner of Steel Bourbon, a limited-edition 5-year Pennsylvania Straight Bourbon bottled at 92 proof and crafted to honor Pittsburgh’s annual marathon tradition. The expression is available in limited quantities at all Wigle Whiskey locations and at the Pittsburgh Live Well Expo presented by GNC, running May 1-2 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
The Pittsburgh-based distillery partnered with P3R, the organization behind the region’s premier running events, to produce the annual release celebrating shared values of “perseverance and community,” according to a brand press release.
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Official tasting notes from the brand describe the bourbon’s profile as featuring butterscotch, stone fruit, and leather.
“Runner of Steel is more than a bourbon, it’s a toast to the determination and spirit of Pittsburgh,” said Alex Moser, chief operating officer of Wigle Whiskey. “Each year, we look forward to creating something that reflects both the craft of our distillery and the energy of the runners and supporters who make the marathon so special.”
Moser added that “this year’s bourbon hits a ‘beautiful stride’ between maturity and vibrancy.”
Troy Schooley, CEO of P3R, emphasized the collaboration’s growing significance. “The Runner of Steel Bourbon has become a fun and meaningful tradition that extends the race-day celebration,” he said.
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“It captures the pride and accomplishment runners feel crossing the finish line, while also highlighting the best of Pittsburgh’s local craftsmanship,” Schooley added. “We look forward to partnering with Wigle each and every year.”
A portion of proceeds from the release will support initiatives promoting health, wellness, and community engagement through running.
The Pittsburgh Live Well Expo will be open Friday, May 1, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET and Saturday, May 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET at 1000 Fort Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.
Wigle Whiskey operates as a grain-to-glass producer, sourcing grains from local Pennsylvania farmers and distilling each batch by hand.
The Runner of Steel release reflects a broader trend among American craft distillers partnering with local cultural institutions and sporting events to build community-rooted brand identities. Such collaborations have become increasingly common as regional distilleries seek to differentiate through local storytelling and limited-edition expressions tied to cultural traditions.
