How a Kentucky Distillery Is Using Bourbon to Help Veterans and First Responders

J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery introduced a new bourbon, and proceeds from the release will be dedicated to helping veterans. (Photo: J. Mattingly 1845)

J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery announced on Thursday that the whiskey brand is bringing back what it referred to as its “highly anticipated” Combat Infantry Badge Bourbon, and proceeds from the sales will be donated to a nonprofit called Forgotten Coast K9. The organization provides first responders and veterans with service dogs to help with suicide prevention.

This bourbon is the latest whiskey released within the brand’s CIB rollout, which takes its name from the type of badges awarded to the army infantry of special service officers in active duty combat. The 2024 release spent six and a half years aging before being bottled at 116 proof. The whiskey hosts a suggested retail price of $155, and $30 from the sale of each bottle will go to Forgotten Coast K9.

“Throughout the year we have special releases that benefit many worthy nonprofit organizations,” CEO and founder Jeff Mattingly said in a statement. “The CIB release is always one of my favorites, as it honors Army veterans who saw combat on the ground, definitely heroes in my book. And to partner with Forgotten Coast K9 to help provide service dogs to military veterans and first responders just makes the release even more special.”

The brand initially rolled out 50 bottles at the National Pet Day Festival on April 15 and claimed they “were met with eager anticipation.” The remaining 450 bottles will be available at the brand’s Frankfort, Kentucky tasting room, which the brand announced will now be open on Sundays for the first time. In addition to its new hours, J. Mattingly 1845 announced the brand will be offering distinctive in-person activities, including a VIP Custom Bourbon Blending Experience, to those who choose to visit the distillery in Kentucky.

J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery claims its latest bourbon possesses a smoky nose of brown sugar-glazed banana, which segues into the rich palate. The brand claims the whiskey finishes with sweet tobacco and baking spice.

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