Old Hillside Bourbon Company is launching a new limited-edition bourbon in honor of Black History Month, dedicated to the 369th Infantry Regiment, the first African American infantry unit to serve in World War I. In celebration of these stories, a special Harlem Hellfighters Bourbon has been released.
The drink is made from blended bourbon aged for 191 days in French oak wine barrels. This specific maturation period is intentionally linked to the regiment’s time on the front lines in France. The barrels were sourced from the same region where the unit served, creating a meaningful geographic and historical connection to the whiskey.
Only 150 cases will be produced, each bottled under three distinct labels. This bourbon is non-chill filtered to provide a smooth, balanced profile, enhanced by a French oak finish. “This partnership isn’t just about whiskey. It’s about honoring a legacy of valor, sacrifice, and resilience,” said Jesse Carpenter, Chief Product Officer of Old Hillside Bourbon. “The Harlem Hellfighters fought longer and harder than nearly any American unit in WWI, and this collaboration allows us to preserve their story while supporting veterans who continue to serve today.”
With the increased national recognition of the Harlem Hellfighters, including the awarding of the Congressional Gold Medal in 2025, it aligns with Old Hillside’s broader focus on historically driven storytelling. A portion of the proceeds will support the Whiskey Valor Foundation, a nonprofit serving veterans and their families.
The Harlem Hellfighters Blend is a limited-edition bourbon from Old Hillside Bourbon Company, released in honor of Black History Month and paying tribute to the legendary 369th Infantry Regiment and African American soldiers whose bravery helped reshape history during WWI.
The bourbon has a warm, deep amber color with subtle ruby undertones, thanks to the Pinot Noir finishing cask. On the nose, it reveals notes of honeyed grain and delicate vanilla, complemented by gentle accents of red fruit and soft oak. The palate is smooth and approachable, featuring rich caramel and light brown sugar, which are balanced by a hint of rye spice. The finish lingers with warm oak, soft spice, and a refined echo of Pinot Noir.
Crafted with intention and finished in French oak wine barrels for 191 days, this release brings the Hellfighters’ legacy forward through premium bourbon-making, purposeful storytelling, and a commitment to preserving the impact of unsung heroes whose contributions were long overlooked.