Horse Soldier Bourbon: The Story Behind the Bottle

There are a lot of good bourbons out there, but few come with a backstory as powerful as Horse Soldier Bourbon. This isn’t just another bottle on the shelf—it’s a piece of American history. Every pour comes with real grit, pride, and a legacy that started on the frontlines.

Horse Soldier Bourbon was created by a group of U.S. Special Forces veterans who were among the first boots on the ground in Afghanistan after 9/11. These guys rode into combat on horseback, earning them the nickname “Horse Soldiers.” They operated in incredibly rugged terrain, built alliances with locals, and carried out missions that changed the course of the war—all while adapting to totally unconventional warfare. If it sounds like a movie, that’s because it literally became one: 12 Strong is based on their story.

When they came home, those same soldiers wanted to create something meaningful. They wanted to take the discipline, dedication, and integrity from their military careers and pour it into something lasting—so they started making bourbon. And they didn’t just slap their name on a label. They built their own distillery, sourced quality grains, and got serious about their craft. Horse Soldier Bourbon isn’t about gimmicks—it’s about honoring where they’ve been and what they’ve survived.

Even the bottle itself tells a story. The glass is pressed using molds made from steel recovered from the wreckage of the World Trade Center. That’s not just symbolic—it’s deeply personal. Every bottle represents resilience, remembrance, and the spirit of service. It’s more than bourbon. It’s a tribute.

So what’s it taste like? Depends on which one you grab. At Boone’s, we carry all three core expressions:

Straight Bourbon: This one’s smooth, approachable, and perfect for sipping or mixing. You’ll catch notes of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of spice. A great place to start.

Small Batch: A little bolder, a little richer. Think toasted oak, dark fruit, and a long, warm finish. This is a solid “weekend pour” kind of bottle.

Barrel Strength: For the bourbon lovers who like it big and bold. It’s uncut and unfiltered, packing a punch without losing any of the smooth character. Best enjoyed neat or with a single cube of ice.

Whether you’re buying it for yourself or gifting it to someone who appreciates a meaningful bottle, Horse Soldier delivers. It’s a conversation piece, a collector’s item, and a genuinely good bourbon all in one. The story draws you in, but the flavor keeps you coming back.

If you haven’t tried it yet, swing by Boone’s and ask one of us about it. We’ll help you figure out which bottle fits your taste, or set you up with all three if you’re building a collection. It’s one of those rare bottles that feels like more than just a drink—it feels like a salute.

Come by Boone’s, grab a bottle, and raise a glass to those who served—and to good bourbon!