American Single Malt Pioneer Honors the People Who Shaped Colorado.
Stranahan’s American Single Malt Whiskey is celebrating Colorado’s 150th anniversary with the launch of Colorado 150: The Pioneers, a statewide initiative recognizing the individuals, businesses, and organizations that have helped define the Centennial State. The campaign highlights trailblazers across business, conservation, hospitality, arts, outdoor recreation, sports, and community leadership while inviting Coloradans to nominate additional pioneers throughout the summer.
The initiative reflects Stranahan’s own pioneering role in American whiskey. Founded in 2004 by Jess Graber, Stranahan’s became Colorado’s first legal post-Prohibition distillery and helped establish the American Single Malt category nearly two decades before it received official federal recognition in 2025.
Colorado Trailblazers Recognized Across Multiple Industries
The inaugural Colorado 150: The Pioneers list honors both historical figures and contemporary leaders whose work continues to shape the state. Among those recognized are Icelantic Skis Co-Founder and CEO Annelise Loevlie, muralist Thomas “Detour” Evans, conservation leader Luis Benitez, playwright and director Tony Garcia, and Oskar Blues Brewery founder Dale Katechis.
Stranahan’s founder Jess Graber is also included on the inaugural list for his contributions to American Single Malt whiskey.
“When you look at Colorado’s history, it becomes clear that the state was shaped by people who were brave enough to blaze a trail of their own, build something and contribute to Colorado lore,” said Justin Aden, Head Blender at Stranahan’s. “Colorado 150: The Pioneers is our way of recognizing those individuals, businesses, and organizations while inviting Coloradans to help us continue uncovering the stories that make this state so special.”
New Short Film Highlights Colorado’s Pioneering Spirit
To accompany the initiative, Stranahan’s has released a short documentary featuring Head Blender Justin Aden traveling throughout Colorado to meet several of the state’s honorees. The film explores the innovation, creativity, and perseverance that have helped shape Colorado’s identity while spotlighting the stories behind many of the individuals recognized in the inaugural class.
The distillery is also encouraging Colorado residents to nominate additional pioneers through social media, allowing the campaign to continue expanding throughout the anniversary celebration.
Summer Events Celebrate Colorado Craftsmanship and Community
Colorado 150: The Pioneers serves as the centerpiece of a broader summer celebration hosted by Stranahan’s.
The distillery’s annual Colorado Day Bash returns to its Denver location on August 1 with live music, food trucks, and a volunteer Platte River cleanup benefiting The Greenway Foundation. At the Stranahan’s Whiskey Lodge in Aspen, guests can enjoy seasonal cocktails, including the Peach Whiskey Smash made with Colorado-grown Palisade peaches, alongside locally inspired menu offerings.
Stranahan’s has also requested official recognition of August as “Peach Whiskey Smash Month” in Colorado. Throughout the month, proceeds from Peach Whiskey Smash cocktail sales—up to $5,000—will support Fire Adapted Colorado and its wildfire resilience efforts.
Additionally, Stranahan’s will participate in the Colorado Tourism Office’s Colorado Passport Program, offering visitors a complimentary bottle gift box with the purchase of two or more 750 mL bottles of Stranahan’s American Single Malt Whiskey.
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