LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Jan. 28, 2026) — The inaugural Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration (KBCA) announced a historic and deeply symbolic auction lot titled “United We Stand,” a one-of-a-kind military bourbon barrel created through an unprecedented collaboration among four acclaimed American whiskey producers: J. Mattingly 1845, Heritage Distilling, Four Branches Bourbon, and Pursuit Spirits.
The exclusive barrel will be auctioned on February 14, 2026, during the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction held February 13–15, 2026, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States. Proceeds will benefit the Bob Woodruff Foundation, supporting veterans, service members, and their families nationwide.
The “United We Stand” barrel was created using donated barrels from each participating distillery. Ryan Cecil, Master Blender for Pursuit Spirits, expertly selected and blended the finest components from each to craft a singular expression representing unity, craftsmanship, and purpose.
“This barrel represents everything the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration stands for, unity, craftsmanship and purpose,” said Andrew Varga, founder of the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration. “Four respected producers, each with their own identity and legacy, have come together in service of something bigger than themselves. 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.”
“Developing this expression has been a highlight of my career,” noted Ryan Cecil, Master Blender for Pursuit Spirits. “Bringing together these incredible distillers and our own Pursuit United barrel resulted in a beautifully balanced harmony. Narrowing down the barrels was a challenge, but the end result is a pour I’m incredibly proud of.”
In addition to the auctioned barrel, each distillery will release 100 commemorative bottles, priced at a suggested retail of $250, honoring both the collaboration and America’s semiquincentennial. The limited releases are expected to be highly collectible.
Honoring Service Through America’s Native Spirit
Each participating producer has a longstanding commitment to military and veteran causes. Together, J. Mattingly 1845, Heritage Distilling, and Four Branches Bourbon have donated millions of dollars to more than 50 veteran-focused organizations, including the Bob Woodruff Foundation, Folds of Honor, Disabled American Veterans, Navy SEAL Foundation, Green Beret Foundation, and others.
The “United We Stand” barrel joins an already impressive lineup of previously announced auction lots, including:
- Elijah Craig Single Barrel Experience at Heaven Hill Distillery
- Four Roses Private Selection Barrel Pick
- Old Forester Single Barrel, Barrel Strength Selection Experience
- 12 Bottles of King of Kentucky Small Batch
- 2002 Old Forester Birthday Bourbon First Release, signed by Garvin Brown IV
The Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration brings together rare bourbon, immersive distillery experiences, and philanthropic impact in honor of America’s Native Spirit. A virtual auction option will be available for those unable to attend in person.
For event updates, tickets, and auction details, visit www.KYBCA.com and follow the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
About the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction
Founded in Louisville by spirits industry veteran Andrew Varga, the Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration is a first-of-its-kind gathering honoring Kentucky’s bourbon legacy while supporting the heroes who protect our nation. The inaugural KBCA committee includes bourbon industry leaders, authors, and creatives dedicated to uniting distilleries, chefs, and enthusiasts for three unforgettable days of tastings, experiences, and giving back — all for the greater great.
Coverage and continued updates available via Bourbon Lens and Bourbon Lens News.
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