2024 Recap: A Year of Growth, Giving, and Exciting New Beginnings
As the year draws to a close, we can’t help but reflect on the incredible journey 2024 has been for Swilled Dog. From launching new partnerships to giving back in meaningful ways, this year has been one to remember. Here’s a look back at some of our proudest moments—and a glimpse at what’s ahead.
Award-Winning Spirits
2024 was quite a year of recognition for Swilled Dog! In March, our CEO Brooke Glover was honored with the DISCUS Dave Pickerell Memorial Craft Member of the Year 2024. A trip to San Diego to accept the award was just one of the highlights from this year. Swilled Dog was recognized for its support of the industry in West Virginia and across the United States. Brooke serves as a member of the DISCUS Craft Distiller Advisory Council where she represents craft distillers’ positions on key policy issues at the federal, state and local levels.
Also in March, CEO and Co-founder Brooke Glover spoke at the WV Chamber's Women's Leadership Summit, providing pieces of advice and wisdom she learned while running Swilled Dog. This helpful advice sparked inspiration for many West Virginia business leaders.
Custom Bourbon Experiences
This year marked a milestone as we had the opportunity to create some custom bourbon experiences. We had the pleasure of working with organizations like Kalkreuth Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. to create a custom bourbon for their employees, offering a unique and innovative bourbon experience. We've also crafted a custom barrel experience with the Davis-Hayhurst family, allowing them to choose their own experience through a tailored tasting experience with West Virginia Great Barrel Company and Swilled Dog. This is just the beginning of a growing program, and we’re excited to see where it takes us in 2025 and beyond.
Giving Back in Big Ways
At Swilled Dog, community and compassion are at the heart of everything we do. This year, we proudly partnered with Pilots to the Rescue, sponsoring a December rescue flight that saved 47 cats and dogs displaced by Hurricane Helene. This mission was made even more impactful by the participation of Kyle Thomas, one of the UK’s most-viewed influencers. Kyle’s involvement brought global awareness to our efforts, exposing millions of followers to the importance of animal rescue.
Additionally, through our Pours for Paws campaign, we donated 100% of our tasting room donations to the Hampshire County Pet Adoption program. Due to our supporters' donations, we were able to provide the funds for spays and neuters of 36 cats and dogs this year. It is always heartwarming to see our community come together to support animals and their families. 
Golden Collaborations
This year, our ongoing collaboration with Country Roads Trust reached new heights. We proudly released The Place I Belong and the first release in the second collection, WV Gold. The first release in the second collection featured details in a collector's dream: all new screen print, a leather neck wrap with a clasp, and a collectable magnetic coin at the top of the cork. With this newly unveiled design, we can't wait to introduce some more exciting offerings in the 1863 lineup.
Each bottle had the distinct honor of being highlighted by West Virginia alumni and entertainer Pat McAfee on his wildly popular sports show. McAfee’s enjoyed WV Gold live on air and said two notable things during his December show: "Buy some booze, support some sports," and "This is West Virginia Gold"! This collaboration isn't just about amazing bourbon; it's about our incredible contributions to West Virginia athletes. The impact this collaboration has made can't be understated. Over 140 thousand dollars have been donated to Country Roads trust as a result of 1863 bourbon sales. Country Roads Trust has also been able to give athletes a chance to donate and support charitable causes in West Virginia. The donations just keep on giving!
A New Marketplace for Meaningful Causes
Another highlight of 2024 was the launch of our products on Committed Spirits.com, a groundbreaking marketplace that works closely with NIL Collectives and other meaningful causes. This initiative allows us to bring exceptional bourbons to passionate fans while supporting causes we care about.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we turn the page to a new year, we’re thrilled to share some exciting changes for our tasting room. Starting in 2025, we’ll introduce a reservation-based tasting experience. Guests will enjoy intimate one-on-one tastings, expertly guided by our team, followed by the opportunity to savor handcrafted cocktails and take home a bottle (or two!) of their favorites. To get the most of your experience, reservations are encouraged, but walk-ins are always welcome! Check out our reservation link under 'Reservations' here.
We’re so grateful for your support this year and can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store. Stay tuned for more updates, and from all of us at Swilled Dog, cheers to a happy, healthy, and bourbon-filled New Year!