With its premium quality and commitment to supporting veteran causes, Four Branches Bourbon is quickly becoming a favorite on menus across the country.
In a competitive market where authenticity and purpose matter as much as taste, Four Branches Bourbon stands as a beacon of both. As a veteran-owned brand with a mission rooted in giving back to those who serve, Four Branches is fast becoming a favorite among chefs, mixologists, and beverage directors nationwide. Its rich, smooth flavor profile speaks to the craftsmanship that goes into every bottle, while its story of service and sacrifice resonates with patrons looking for more than just a quality drink. This is a bourbon crafted with care, steeped in tradition, and driven by purpose.
Founded in 2022 by veterans representing four branches of the U.S. military—Harold Underdown, US Navy; RJ Casey, US Army; Mike Trott, US Air Force; and Rick Franco, US Marines—Four Branches Bourbon was born out of a shared commitment to honor their brothers and sisters in arms. For Rick Franco, the vision for Four Branches started during a mission in Iraq. After his time in the Marines and while working for the CIA as a lead contractor, Rick recruited his VMI classmate and fellow Marine, Greg Wright, Jr. to join him at the CIA. On Greg’s first mission overseas, his team was caught in an ambush, and while Greg heroically saved the lives of those around him, he tragically lost his own in the attack. Rick was the one who had to bring his friend home. The inspiration for Four Branches began there, with a desire to create something meaningful that would honor the sacrifices made by their comrades.
“We all have our reasons for wanting to give back, but for me, it was always about honoring the memory of Greg and others like him,” Rick shares. “That’s why every bottle we make is about more than bourbon—it’s about remembering those who served alongside us.”
Harold Underdown, a retired Command Master Chief with the Navy SEALs, brings a different perspective, focused on the discipline and precision of crafting a great spirit. “After a career where attention to detail was everything, that’s exactly what we put into every bottle of Four Branches,” he says. “We had the great honor of Hall of Fame Master Distiller Steve Nally joining us as we blended our initial release, Founders Blend. He’s the one who suggested we try a fourth grain – the wheat – which gave it that truly unique, smooth taste but still retained that element that lets you know you’re drinking bourbon. We like to call it the “Kentucky Kiss.” Man… that was a day none of us will ever forget!”
RJ Casey, a former US Army Special Forces soldier, speaks to the brotherhood that drives the brand forward. “For us, it’s not just about selling bourbon; it’s about supporting those who have served,” RJ explains. “We’ve all seen firsthand the challenges veterans face when they come home, and we’re committed to making a difference.”
Mike Trott, who served in the Air Force and the CIA, emphasizes the importance of community. “We knew from the start that if we could create something people love, we could also make a real impact on the lives of veterans and their families,” he says. “It’s humbling to see impact on the lives of veterans and their families,” he says. “It’s humbling to see how far we’ve come and how many people believe in our mission.”
Its flagship product, Founders Blend, is at the heart of this carefully crafted 4-grain bourbon, which reflects the founders’ dedication to quality and tradition. Founders Blend boasts an award-winning complex flavor profile that balances richness and smoothness with notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and a hint of spice that lingers on the palate.
What sets the Founders Blend apart is its versatility. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the base for a sophisticated cocktail, this bourbon offers an experience that is both approachable and luxurious. Its smooth finish and layered flavors have made it a go-to for top chefs and beverage directors looking to elevate their menus.
Its flagship product, Founders Blend, is at the heart of this carefully crafted 4-grain bourbon, which reflects the founders’ dedication to quality and tradition. Founders Blend boasts an award-winning complex flavor profile that balances richness and smoothness with notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and a hint of spice that lingers on the palate.
What sets Founders Blend apart is its versatility. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the base for a sophisticated cocktail, this bourbon offers an experience that is both approachable and luxurious. Its smooth finish and layered flavors have made it a go-to for top chefs and beverage directors looking to elevate their menus.
Forging Connections: How Four Branches Bourbon Partners with Diverse Accounts
For those in the industry, Founders Blend is more than just a bourbon—it’s a story in a glass. It combines the craftsmanship of distillation with the honor and integrity that define the veteran experience. The meticulous attention to detail, from sourcing the highest quality ingredients to the aging process, has garnered attention from connoisseurs like renowned bourbon authority Fred Minnick and casual drinkers alike, helping to solidify Four Branches Bourbon’s place in the competitive spirits landscape. This is why they recently received a Double Gold Medal from the prestigious Sips Awards, a taste competition and award given by consumers. They also took Gold in the Ascot Awards.
For many food and beverage professionals, Four Branches Bourbon has become more than just a product—they view it as a partner in their own efforts to offer something unique and meaningful to their guests. The bourbon’s story of service resonates with patrons, many of whom are veterans or have family members who served in the military. This emotional connection, paired with the bourbon’s exceptional flavor, makes Four Branches a standout choice for menus across the country.
One such supporter is Edley’s BBQ, a Nashville-based, family-friendly barbecue chain that has embraced Four Branches Bourbon since its launch. Known for its community-driven spirit, Edley’s added the signature cocktail called the Quiet Professional, featuring Four Branches Founder Blend to it’d permanent menu. “People we like to partner with and bring into our family are groups that support veterans… who embody that sacrifice,” says Edley’s owner Will Newman, who has several family members and employees who have proudly served. “We want to thank Four Branches for continuing to echo that we all serve a purpose in our country, and we should serve that purpose honorably.” Their partnership has become a cornerstone of Edley’s offerings, blending the restaurant’s Southern hospitality with the bourbon’s rich, crafted flavors.
About 30 minutes down the road to the south, Four Branches About 30 minutes down the road to the south, Four Branches found a flagship home at The Troubadour, a luxury golf and residential community developed by Discovery Land Company, located in College Grove, Tennessee. Known for its exclusive, high-end lifestyle offerings, combined with an immersive lifestyle experience, members love the unique combination of a craft cocktail, and a curated dinner made with farm to table ingredients. The Troubadour was one of the first to adopt the Quiet Professional cocktail on its menu and then they started experimenting with seasonal offerings. Meanwhile, Executive Chef Anthony Endy was also inspired. “When I tasted Four Branches Bourbon, the notes I picked up were burnt orange and vanilla,” says Endy. “I wanted something that could hold up to this bourbon without overpowering it, which led me to pair it with a rich yet lean salmon.” The bourbon-brined king salmon, smoked over Oakwood and glazed with a bourbon maple finish, has become a signature dish at the restaurant. “The Troubadour has been supporting Four Branches Bourbon since day one, and the patrons love the connection to the brand’s mission to support veterans and first responders.”
A Shared Mission: Supporting Veterans
Further west, The Canal Club at The Scott Resort & Spa in Arizona has made its own mark in celebrating Four Branches. Blending the charm of Old Havana with a New Orleans flair, The Canal Club offers a dining experience like no other.
Brailyn Mowrer, the Beverage Manager, shares how the bourbon’s story resonated deeply with her. “Four Branches Bourbon is truly something special. The stories it tells, the love and care poured into its creation by the founders, and the well-balanced taste all come together to create an experience that lingers with each sip. Though I haven’t had the honor of serving our country, many of my friends and family have, and it feels extraordinary to support a brand that pays such heartfelt homage to each branch of the military.”
Dovid Kurtzman, a Marine Corps veteran and Sous Chef at The Canal Club, adds, “As a Marine Corps veteran, the traditions I value started in a small tavern in Pennsylvania, and I see that same spirit of camaraderie and collaboration in Four Branches. The versatility of Four Branches Bourbon, with its four-grain mash of corn, rye, barley, and wheat, creates a beautiful balance when enjoyed neat and serves as the perfect canvas for a range of cocktails and food pairings.”
Marine Corps Veteran Jackson Snedeker, Jazz Henry, Mike Trott, Paul Harris (Sales Manager), Sous Chef Dovid Kurtzman and Beverage Manager Brailyn Mawrer
A Sweet Alliance
Beyond the bar and the kitchen, Four Branches Bourbon has found a unique collaboration with Sandi Keller of Bomb Confections. A TikTok sensation known for her creative bourbon-infused treats, Keller reached out to Four Branches with a special gift of chocolates as a gesture of gratitude for their service.
“I’m so excited to share the story behind our collaboration with Four Branches Bourbon! I first discovered them on Instagram as they were just getting started, and I reached out, wanting to express my gratitude for their service with a special gift of chocolates. That simple gesture sparked a friendship, and over time, our shared passions led to this incredible collaboration. Their perfectly crafted bourbon blends beautifully with my custom bourbon-infused chocolates, creating a bonbon that’s as rich in flavor as it is in meaning. It’s a perfect pairing of flavors and people!”
Brand Champions
Four Branches Bourbon has attracted the attention of notable figures like Randy Couture and Ric Prado, both of whom have become Branch Champions for the brand. Randy Couture, a six-time UFC champion and Hall of Fame mixed martial artist and actor, is also a U.S. Army veteran. Known for his fierce competitiveness and dedication, Couture has been a strong advocate for veteran causes, making him a natural fit as a supporter of Four Branches.
Ric Prado, a former Air Force Pararescue Specialist (PJ) and decorated CIA operations officer, spent his career serving in some of the most challenging conditions worldwide. His deep connection to the military and intelligence communities makes his support for Four Branches particularly meaningful. “What these four outstanding veterans have built is more than just a great bourbon; it’s a tribute to the sacrifices made by those who serve,” says Prado. “It’s an honor to support a brand that values those same principles of dedication, honor, and service.”
How to Buy
Four Branches Bourbon is available for purchase online to ship to 34 states and is widely distributed across Tennessee, Kentucky, Florida, Phoenix, DC, Maryland, and in the Virginia ABC stores. The brand has also found a place in AAFES and NEX stores, making it accessible to military personnel and their families. FourBranches.com
Giveback
In less than 18 months, Four Branches has helped raise $400,000 for veterans’ and first responders’ charities—a testament to the quality of the bourbon and the support of those who believe in the mission. As the brand continues to grow, so does its commitment to honoring those who have served.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the brand has been the thousands of comments and personal messages the brand has received on social media. “It keeps us going… it’s everything this brand embodies. Serve Honorably. Drink Honorably. And Sip to Remember.”
