Introducing 2025 Founders Reserve
LITCHFIELD DISTILLERY RELEASES FOUNDERS’ RESERVE 8-YEAR CONNECTICUT-GROWN BOURBON
LITCHFIELD, CT – Litchfield Distillery is proud to announce the 2025 release of its Founders’ Reserve 8-Year Bourbon Whiskey, an exceptionally mature expression and the first time the distillery has offered a CT-Grown bourbon with an eight-year age statement. The Founders’ Reserve label is reserved exclusively for special releases that earn unanimous approval from co-owners and brothers David, Jack, and Peter Baker.
This year’s release continues Litchfield Distillery’s commitment to working with Connecticut-grown grains. Distilled from a mash bill of 70% corn, 25% winter rye, and 5% malted barley, this bourbon was aged for eight full years in #4 char American oak casks inside the distillery’s rickhouse—the largest in Connecticut.
Flavor & Character
Eight years of aging resulted in a meaningful angel’s share reduction, which contributed to the whiskey’s elegant structure and lush flavor. Bottled at 100 proof, this bourbon showcases pronounced caramel and butterscotch notes, glimmers of cherry and tobacco leaf, and a smooth, lingering finish accented with gentle peppery spice.
“We’ve always believed that good bourbon doesn’t need to be rushed,” said David Baker. “This release is a testament to patience and to the work our farming partners put in to growing quality grains right here in Connecticut.”
A Gift-Worthy Presentation
This year’s Founders’ Reserve arrives in a foil-stamped, deep red holiday gift box, making it an ideal seasonal gift or special bottle to enjoy and share. Each bottle is also hand-signed by David, Jack, and Peter, a hallmark of the Founders’ Reserve tradition and a symbol of their personal pride in every release.
“Founders’ Reserve represents the best of what we’re aging in our rickhouse,” said Jack Baker. “When all three of us agree a barrel selection is special, that’s when it earns the Founders’ Reserve name.”
A Continuing Evolution in Connecticut Whiskey
The 8-year release signals continued momentum for Litchfield Distillery, whose barrel inventory now contains an expanding collection of well-aged bourbons, specialty cask finishes and recently, the addition of American Single Malt Whiskey.
“Founders’ Reserve is always special, but this one hits a little different,” said Peter Baker. “It’s the kind of bottle you open with people who matter to you — the ones who’ve been through the journey with you. It’s meant to be shared and to create memories.”
Availability
Founders’ Reserve 8-Year Bourbon Whiskey is now available for purchase at the Distillery Store and is currently shipping to Connecticut retailers. It is also available to ship outside of Connecticut (where allowed by law) via our Ship Spirits page.
A full retailer list will be posted to the Litchfield Distillery blog and shared on social media as it becomes available.
To see past Founders’ Reserve releases, click here.
