Wyoming Whiskey will release Queen of the Tetons Second Edition, a limited-edition bourbon dedicated to Grizzly 399, this Friday 16 October 2026. The 99-proof bourbon marks the second anniversary of the famed bear’s death and will be available nationwide for the first time via online retailer Bourbon Outfitter.
The release lands two years after Grizzly 399 was killed when struck by a vehicle on US Highway 26/89 south of Jackson, Wyoming.
Known as the “Queen of the Tetons,” the bear was a global phenomenon. The 28-year-old grizzly was one of the most photographed bears at the park and the oldest known reproducing female grizzly bear in the greater Yellowstone park system. She had given birth to 18 cubs, though only eight reached adulthood. She was killed on 22 October 2024.
Quick whisky question
Single malt is everywhere, but what does it mean? We want to know what the word “single” means to you. Three quick questions, under a minute.
Just 1,000 bottles have been produced for the second edition. The bottle features photography of 399 by Savannah Rose and acclaimed wildlife photographer Thomas Mangelsen.
The bourbon is an eight-barrel blend bottled at 99 proof. According to the official notes from the brand, it carries flavors of sweetened huckleberry, honeysuckle, and coffee cake.
Queen of the Tetons Second Edition carries a suggested retail price of $79.99 (£60).
What Will Whisky Look Like in 2027? Voices from Whisky Live Paris
READ THE STORYOnline orders will ship to most US states. The bottle will also be sold at select stores across Wyoming, as well as the Wyoming Whiskey Shop in Kirby and Barrel House in Jackson.
For every bottle sold, $5 (£4) will be donated to the Grand Teton National Park Foundation. The funds will support grizzly bear education, conservation and research programs in Grand Teton National Park.
Conservation has long underpinned the distillery’s work. Supporting conservation efforts has long been central to Wyoming Whiskey’s mission, and this initiative furthers its commitment to preserving wide-open spaces in the wake of this profound loss.
Reflecting on the inaugural edition, Wyoming Whiskey co-founder David DeFazio said: “Grizzly 399 earned her title as the Queen of the Tetons by placing her 28 years of life on display. She was shrewd, which resulted in her resilience. And her resilience captivated us all.”
The timing aligns with a new documentary. The remarkable life and legacy of Grizzly 399, one of the world’s most famous bears, is at the centre of 399 Forever, a new wildlife documentary released worldwide through Buffalo 8 on 16 October 2026.
Latest On The Whiskey Wash
