Four Branches Bourbon: A Tribute to Veterans and a Taste of Brotherhood
Nestled in the heart of Nelson County, Kentucky, Four Branches Bourbon stands as a unique tribute to the brotherhood among veterans. Founded by Mike Trott, Rick Franco, Harold Underdown, and RJ Casey—each a veteran of a different branch of the U.S. Armed Forces—Four Branches Bourbon is more than just a whiskey brand. It represents a commitment to honoring those who served and a mission to support veterans. With each sip, the brand embodies its motto: “Serve Honorably. Drink Honorably.”
The Inception of Four Branches Bourbon
The story of Four Branches began on a simple commute when Rick Franco, inspired by the memories of his fallen comrades, decided to create something lasting. He teamed up with fellow veterans, each from the Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Army, to form a bond over bourbon—specifically a product that would serve not only as an exquisite spirit but also as a vessel for giving back.
A Mission to Give Back
- Partnered with organizations like the Third Option Foundation and Folds of Honor.
- Over $400,000 raised through sales, giveaways, and partnership auctions.
- Each sale contributes to veteran and family support initiatives.
For Franco and his co-founders, the journey was about more than just creating a successful brand. “It’s about fighting the stigma of substance abuse and mental health for servicemen and women,” says Franco, highlighting the broader impact of their venture. This sentiment echoes in their brand’s philosophy—encouraging veterans not to “drink to forget but to sip to remember.”
Crafting Four Branches: The Bourbon
Guided by Hall of Fame Master Distiller Steve Nally, Four Branches Bourbon is meticulously crafted to blend tradition with innovation. Their flagship product, the Founder’s Blend, is a finely curated four-grain recipe, consisting of:
- 65% Corn
- 15% Rye
- 10% Malted Barley
- 10% Wheat
This combination results in a distinct “Kentucky kiss”—a smooth flavor with a warm finish, designed to appeal to both bourbon enthusiasts and novices alike. The bourbon is distilled using barrels aged between four to seven years, ensuring a mature taste profile that does justice to its heritage.
Real-World Impact
Beyond the allure of a high-quality bourbon, Four Branches has personal testimonies validating its mission. As Franco recounts, a fellow veteran once shared how working with Four Branches gave him the motivation to get back on his feet—a testament to the brand’s purpose. Such stories underline the importance of community and support within the veteran population.
The Future of Four Branches Bourbon
While its flagship product has already made waves, Four Branches is not resting on its laurels. They’re planning future releases, including limited editions like the Black Ops—a 9-year-old Caribbean rum barrel-finished bourbon. With 500 barrels of Bardstown Bourbon Company-distilled distillate already in storage, the company is poised for more innovations.
As they continue to expand, Four Branches remains devoted to its founding principles: honoring veterans and crafting memorable bourbon that embodies the spirit of service and comradeship.
