Green River 250th U.S. Army Special Anniversary Bourbon Review

BOTTLE DETAILS

• DISTILLER: Green River Distilling Co.
• MASH BILL: 75% Corn | 15% Rye | 10% Malted Barley
• AGE: 4 years officially, but it contains 7-year-old bourbon
• YEAR: 2025
• PROOF: 111.1 (55.55% ABV)
• MSRP: $49.99
• BUY ONLINE: Green River Bottle Shop, select Army bases and retailers nationwide

STEVE'S NOTES

SHARE WITH: Any bourbon fan and buy it for military friends or loved ones whether active duty, reserve or retired.

WORTH THE PRICE: Sir, yes, Sir! It's a bargain that even a couple of buck privates could afford to split.

BOTTLE, BAR OR BUST: Bottle for sure, but bottles would be better since a portion of the proceeds go to support military families through wellness, recreation and educational programs.

OVERALL: Before I begin the review, let's take a moment to appreciate the rucksack full of storylines tied to this first-ever parachute-delivered release. Mark Erwin, the CEO of Lofted Spirits, which owns Green River and Bardstown Bourbon Co., is a retired Army Colonel and longtime Airborne Ranger. I was chatting with him several years ago when he was having a particularly challenging day at work and quipped, "Well, it's not like jumping out of an aircraft all by yourself into enemy territory." I didn't know whether he meant fixing that day's problem was simple by comparison or parachuting into enemy territory was a lot more fun than that particular workplace aggravation, but I'd wager he meant both.

I don't know whose idea it was to have this bottle handed off using parachutists, but clearly it's a nod to Erwin's particular line of service. Publicity stunts don't usually wow jaded old journalists like me, but the June 12 sky-to-ground bottle delivery from the All Veterans Group parachute team to a group of active-duty and veteran Army personnel on the ground had to have been just badass. Once given to Erwin, he led a ceremonial toast with the group in honor of the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary. Thank you for your service, troops!

Now, onto the comparably cushier line of work I get to do in large part because of our strong Army. This is bright, floral and candied on the nose, due in part to the 15% rye content and its aromatic 111.1 proof. (11/11 is also Veterans Day, so that proof isn't an accident.) Caramel corn is also prominent, as is a little vanilla and hot grain mash.

I'm a big fan of Green River's barrel-proof releases, which average around 125 proof, but this 111.1 proof release is balanced, flavorful, and rich without the heat. I'd pour this for drinkers interested in easing out of 90-proof pours and into three-figure territory. The mouthfeel is huge: loads of caramel and cooked corn, citrus, baking spice and oak. Black and white pepper interplay with cinnamon and citrus without any discernible sting. Multiple sips see pleasant vegetal and herbal notes move in while the whiskey's sweetness maintains control. Tasting this and knowing you've spent just $49.99 will really make you wonder why you part with any more on any bottle. From sniff to sip, this is exactly what bourbon whiskey should taste like and cost in 2025.

BRAND NOTES

Since 1885, Green River has been woven into the fabric of the nation, with a proud and lasting connection to the U.S. military. Created in partnership with the U.S. Army to mark its 250th Anniversary, this is the official bottle of a historic milestone. This limited-edition release is a bold celebration of 250 years of service and sacrifice. Bottled at an Army Strong 111.1 proof in honor of Veterans Day (11/11), this release pays tribute to the courage, commitment, and enduring legacy of those who have served.

APPEARANCE: Deep golden amber

TASTE: Full-bodied and bottled at an Army Strong 111.1 proof, this Kentucky bourbon displays caramel, black cherry, cocoa, and peppermint.

FINISH: Rich mouthfeel of toffee and toasted oak leads to a lightly spiced, bold finish that’s wholly distinct to this official whiskey honoring the U.S. Army.

Disclaimer: Bourbon & Banter received a sample of this product from the brand for review. We appreciate their willingness to allow us to review their products with no strings attached. Thank you.