Stetson Teams with Bardstown and Green River for New Bourbon

Stetson, the iconic Western wear brand known for inventing the cowboy hat in 1856, has collaborated with Kentucky distilleries Bardstown Bourbon Company and Green River to release a new bourbon. The partnership, unveiled at an event in New York City, marks the first time bourbons from both distilleries have been blended together. Stetson CEO Robert Dundon explained that the collaboration had been in development for several years, with the company choosing Kentucky over Texas (where Stetson is based) for a more classic flavor profile. Master blender Dan Callaway presented several blends before finalizing the recipe, which is a high-rye bourbon bottled at 100 proof. Tasting notes include caramel, vanilla, maple, brown sugar, dried fruit, fresh apple, pear, peach, black pepper, and cinnamon. The bottle features the painting "The Last Drop from His Stetson" by artist Lon Megargee. Stetson Bourbon (SRP $70) is currently available at Texas retailers and online, with a larger rollout planned later in the year. The collaboration comes amid recent production cutbacks at both distilleries, which were acquired by Bardstown in 2022 and now operate under the Lofted Spirits name. Green River's origins date back to 1885, though it ceased production after Prohibition and was revived in 2014.