Brush Creek Distillery, a Wyoming-based small-batch distillery with deep Purdue ties, is releasing a new straight bourbon whiskey in partnership with the Purdue for Life Foundation.
Founded by prominent Purdue alumni Bruce and Beth White in 2010, Brush Creek Distillery is part of Brush Creek Ranch, a luxury ranch in Saratoga, Wyoming. The release of this bourbon reflects the White family’s continued dedication to Purdue University. Bruce White served as a Purdue trustee from 2011 to 2015 and made significant contributions to the school. Although Bruce White passed away in early 2023, this bourbon honors his legacy and passion for his alma mater.
“We are thrilled to unveil this special-release whiskey with Purdue for Life, and to support the organization’s ongoing efforts to engage alumni and strengthen the community,” says Distillery Managing Director Andrew Wason. “Inspired by fellow Boilermakers, this whiskey combines innovation and sustainability to deliver a strikingly bold spirit, layered with rich flavors and a lingering finish.”
As another nod to Purdue, the straight bourbon whiskey was derived from seven different distillates in Indiana, all aged seven years. “The multiple mash bills include a high rye bourbon blended with a wheat bourbon,” Wason explains. “The aroma and taste will appeal beyond whiskey aficionados to a much wider audience.”
True to its Boilermaker spirit, the bourbon is crafted with meticulous care. Here’s what you can expect in each sip:
APPEARANCE: Boilermaker gold.
AROMA: Spiced honey, graham cracker, light citrus zest, baking spices and herbaceous mint notes.
PALATE: The palate is rich and dense with layers of vanilla custard, light caramel, dark chocolate, candied fruit, and hints of black tea and spearmint. The mid-palate highlights light oak, cinnamon and a well-rounded mouthfeel.
FINISH: Full, lingering finish with notes of vanilla, pipe smoke and spice hints.
96 Proof | 48% Alcohol by Volume | 750 ml
“The bourbon is perfect for the changing seasons,” Wason explains. “It’s a perfect ‘warming spirit’ that can be enjoyed neat, with a splash of water or on the rocks.”
The bourbon is packed with symbolic connections to Purdue University. The price of $74.18 pays homage to 1874, the year Purdue opened its doors for classes. The nine distillates from Indiana, aged seven years, symbolize the seven degree programs offered at Purdue’s White Lodging-J.W. Marriott, Jr. School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.
The Whites met on campus in West Lafayette and fell in love. In 2009 Bruce White gifted $5 million to establish the White Lodging School, which has since become a top destination for students pursuing hospitality careers. The school, named in honor of Bruce White and his company, is renowned for its hospitality and tourism management programs. Bruce graduated from Purdue with a degree in management, while Beth earned a degree in coordinated dietetics.
Formed in 2020, the Purdue for Life Foundation builds lasting relationships among Purdue students, alumni and future Boilermakers. The foundation offers numerous ways to stay involved, including events, volunteer activities, and philanthropic efforts that support Purdue’s mission and community.
Wason says Brush Creek’s goal is to serve this whiskey on campus at the Union Club Hotel and the upcoming Boilermaker Ball fundraiser in Indianapolis on March 1, 2025.
The Purdue for Life Foundation special release is available at brushcreekdistillery.com and bourbonoutfitter.com, or by visiting the distillery itself in Saratoga, Wyoming.
In other Purdue-related news, Sun King Brewery is paying tribute to legendary Purdue men’s basketball coach Gene Keady with a special beer crafted in honor of his 25-year tenure. Named Play Hard Lager, officials with the Indianapolis-based brewery say they worked with Keady’s family to develop the beer’s artwork and style. The beer is described by Sun King officials as a balanced blend of malt sweetness and hop character. It is said to symbolize the lessons Keady taught his players as a coach, including the benefits of teamwork and resilience.
Keady coached the Boilermakers from 1980 to 2005, and made 17 NCAA tournaments and two Elite Eight appearances.
