American Freedom Distillery Logo

American Freedom Distillery

Region
  • USA, Florida
Awards
  • Triple Double Gold at 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Awards at 2021 USA Spirits Ratings,
Website
  • https://horsesoldierbourbon.com/
Phone Number
  • +18557295457
Address
  • 2232 5th Ave S Suite B, St. Petersburg, FL 33712

Elegant industrial-style bar with leather seating and chandeliers.

History of American Freedom Distillery

Founding and Inspiration

American Freedom Distillery, the creator of Horse Soldier Bourbon, was founded in 2015 by a team of former Green Berets. Their journey began with a distillery tour in Yellowstone, sparking a passion for distilling.

This led them to train with some of the best distillers in Kentucky, Ireland, and Scotland, bringing those lessons back to perfect their craft.

The Bourbon

Horse Soldier Bourbon Whiskey, the distillery’s flagship product, is handmade with all-natural ingredients and bottled in America’s heartland.

The bourbon has garnered significant recognition, winning triple double gold in the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. It’s known for its distinct flavors, crafted from grain to glass with a commitment to excellence.

The Horse Soldier Story

The brand’s story is deeply connected to a pivotal moment in American history. Following the events of 9/11, elite Green Beret teams, known as the “Horse Soldiers,” were deployed to Afghanistan, some on horseback.

Their heroics were later depicted in the film “12 Strong” and the CNN documentary “Legion of Brothers.” This story is a fundamental part of the distillery’s identity.

Future Expansion

The distillery’s future includes the establishment of Horse Soldier Farms in Somerset-Pulaski County, Kentucky.

Many team members hail from Kentucky, and the new location will feature a world-class distillery and tourist experience, celebrating the legacy and spirit of the Horse Soldiers.

Bourbon Varieties

Horse Soldier Bourbon offers a range of bourbons, including Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey, and Barrel Strength Bourbon Whiskey, each with unique tasting notes like caramel, vanilla, toasted corn, honey, nutmeg, custard, spiced oak, creamy toffee, dark stone fruits, ginger, cola, oak, butterscotch, and floral notes.

Awards Won by American Freedom Distillery

  • Triple Double Gold at 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition: In this renowned competition, Horse Soldier Bourbon stood out by winning the Double Gold medal three times. A Double Gold signifies unanimous agreement among the judges on the gold quality of the product​​.
  • Awards at 2021 USA Spirits Ratings: This event evaluates spirits based on quality, value, and packaging. Horse Soldier Bourbon received multiple accolades here:
    • Horse Soldier Signature: Awarded a Silver Medal with a score of 88 points.
    • Horse Soldier Reserve: Also earned a Silver Medal, scoring 84 points.
    • Horse Soldier Premium: Gained a Silver Medal with 83 points​​.

American Freedom Distillery Tour Information and Experience

  • Location and Accessibility:
    • The distillery is located in St. Petersburg, Florida, near the beach and in the Warehouse Arts District.
    • It offers wheelchair-friendly inside walkways for accessibility.
  • Distillery Features:
    • Visitors can tour the distillery and try crafted spirits.
    • It features a full bar and a happy hour.
    • Live music entertainment is available.
  • Educational Experience:
    • The tour provides an insight into the distillery’s journey and the art of whiskey and rum tastings.
    • Visitors learn about the global quest of the founders for distilling knowledge and their training with world-renowned distillers in Scotland and Ireland.
  • Discounts Offered:
    • Group discounts are available.
    • Military discounts are provided as a gesture of appreciation for veterans.
  • Signature Product – Horse Soldier Bourbon:
    • The distillery is known for its award-winning Horse Soldier Bourbon.
    • It has won multiple awards, including three double gold medals at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Flask & Barrel Review of American Freedom Distillery

As a seasoned whiskey collector who’s seen my fair share of distilleries, I’d give the American Freedom Distillery a solid 4.7 out of 5. Nestled in St. Petersburg, Florida, this place isn’t just a distillery; it’s a testament to American spirit and craftsmanship.

Their Horse Soldier Bourbon is a standout – rich, smooth, and with a story that’s as compelling as its taste.

The tour itself was a highlight. It’s not every day you get to see a team that combines art and science so seamlessly. They’ve traveled the world, learning from the best in Scotland and Ireland, and it shows. The attention to detail in their process is something any whiskey enthusiast would appreciate.

What really sets them apart is their vibe. The place has an air of authenticity that’s hard to find. Plus, they’ve got a full bar and live music, making the whole experience feel more like hanging out with friends than a typical tour.

If you’re into whiskey and in the area, it’s a must-visit. The American Freedom Distillery genuinely lives up to its name, delivering a top-notch whiskey experience that’s both educational and down-to-earth.

What To Do Nearby American Freedom Distillery

  • St. Pete Pier: Just blocks away from the distillery, St. Pete Pier offers a range of activities, including shopping, dining, and beautiful waterfront views. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or enjoying live events.
  • World-Class Museums: For those interested in arts and culture, St. Petersburg boasts an array of museums. Highlights include the Salvador Dali Museum, known for its extensive collection of Dali’s works and striking architecture, and the James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, which features stunning exhibitions of western and wildlife art. These museums offer a mix of historical and contemporary art, perfect for art enthusiasts.
  • Beaches: A few miles from the distillery, you’ll find beautiful beaches like St. Pete Beach, Clearwater Beach, and Pass-a-Grille Beach. These beaches are perfect for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the Florida sunshine.
  • Boat Tours: If you’re looking to spend some time on the water, St. Pete offers various boat tours, providing a unique perspective of the city and its surrounding nature.
  • Children’s Museum and More: For family-friendly activities, the Great Explorations Children’s Museum is a great choice, offering interactive and educational experiences for kids.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near American Freedom Distillery?

  • The Floribbean: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 2410 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33712.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +17278260198. 
  • Bodega on Central: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 1180 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +17276230942. 
  • Sōl St Pete Bistro: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 2149 3rd Ave S Unit #6, St. Petersburg, FL 33712.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +17272897598.

What hotels are near American Freedom Distillery?

  • Mint House St. Petersburg — Downtown: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 77 11th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33705.
    For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +18559729090.