WV NEWS | Country Roads Trust and Swilled Dog Collaborate to Release Exclusive ‘1863 WV Gold’ Bourbon Collection for WVU Fans

Country Roads Trust, the leader in managing the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights for student-athletes at West Virginia University, has announced a special licensing agreement with local craft beverage producer Swilled Dog. The partnership will result in the creation of a premium bourbon collection. The first release in the series is a straight bourbon whiskey called ‘1863 WV Gold,’ which pays homage to the founding of West Virginia in 1863.

Stephen Ford, the general manager and COO of Country Roads Trust, expressed pride in the collaboration and praised Swilled Dog for producing a high-quality bourbon that reflects the passion and hard work for which Mountaineer fans are known. Ford believes that the smooth taste of the bourbon will resonate with fans and bring them a sense of coming home.

The sales of the bourbon will generate funds that will enable the creation of more NIL opportunities for Mountaineer student-athletes within West Virginia communities. Swilled Dog is a renowned craft beverage producer known for its award-winning small-batch whiskeys, bourbons, and hard ciders crafted in the mountains of West Virginia. The ‘1863 WV Gold’ bourbon, curated by WVU alumni, embodies Swilled Dog’s commitment to quality craft beverages and loyalty to their home state.

Co-Founder and CEO of Swilled Dog, Brooke Glover, expressed excitement about the launch of ‘1863 WV Gold’ and described it as a heartfelt tribute to West Virginia and its fans. Glover believes the bourbon captures the essence of the state’s traditions, rolling hills, and its remarkable people.

Only 1,260 bottles of ‘1863 WV Gold’ have been produced, making it a highly sought-after item for collectors and enthusiasts. With a proof of 119, this limited-edition bourbon has been aged for 4.5 years in tight-grained American white oak. It boasts a smooth texture and is characterized by a heavy caramel aroma with subtle notes of vanilla. The bourbon offers a rich body with flavors of toffee, butterscotch, and earthy undertones. The finish is medium to long, leaving a memorable impact on the palate with notes of caramel and a hint of brûlée.

‘1863 WV Gold’ is available for purchase at selected retailers throughout West Virginia and online at swilleddog.com, but supplies are limited.

Swilled Dog is a prominent craft beverage producer headquartered in West Virginia. They are dedicated to creating exceptional craft beverages that bring people together and make a meaningful impact on the lives of their furry friends. Their brand portfolio includes hard cider, premium small-batch spirits, and ready-to-drink cocktails, all made from local ingredients and cultivated through collaborations with West Virginia businesses. Swilled Dog Spirits can be purchased online at swilleddog.com and are distributed in West Virginia, as well as shipped to 40 states within the U.S.

Country Roads Trust focuses on supporting student-athletes by establishing NIL donation memberships and securing sponsorship deals, ensuring that West Virginia University athletics attract top talent. The Trust works closely with the university’s mission. For more information on the partnership between Country Roads Trust and Swilled Dog, visit https://swilled-dog-stage.stage4.estlandhosting.com/.