The News
Wooler Brands, founded by Jason Wooler, announced the launch of Wooler Whiskey, a Kentucky Straight Bourbon, and JP Vodka, a naturally gluten-free, 100% corn spirit. Both products were awarded Gold Medals at the 2026 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The company is based in Lodi, Calif., and has partnered with Savannah Distributing Company for distribution in Georgia.
Wooler Brands has just launched two new spirits—a Kentucky straight bourbon and a Texas‑made vodka—both earning Gold Medals at the 2026 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The press release calls the awards “Gold,” but the competition’s Gold tier requires 95–97 points; Wooler’s bourbon scored 90 and its vodka 91, placing them well above average yet below the level needed for “Gold Outstanding.”
Both products are now available in California and have secured an initial partnership with Savannah Distributing in Georgia.
The bourbon is aged more than five years in heavily charred #3 barrels and is priced at $39.99 per bottle, positioning it within the mid‑tier of premium bourbons that typically retail between $30 and $50. The vodka comes in 100% corn, six‑times distilled, naturally gluten‑free, and retails for $29.99.
From a bar‑manager’s perspective, the bourbon offers a high‑proof option without breaking the bank, while the gluten‑free vodka provides a niche hook for health‑conscious patrons. For distributors, expanding beyond California and Georgia will be key to scaling the brand; success will depend on how quickly Savannah can move the products through its network.
Original Press Release
Lodi, Calif. [June 17, 2026] -- Wooler Brands today announced the launch of Wooler Whiskey, a Kentucky Straight Bourbon crafted in Bardstown, Kentucky, and JP Vodka, a naturally gluten-free, 100% corn spirit made in Texas. Both spirits have already earned Gold Medals at the 2026 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Founded by 30-year spirits industry veteran Jason Wooler, the company marks a new chapter for a family deeply rooted in the business. After a long and successful career in beverage distribution, Wooler helped build a whiskey brand that was gaining strong momentum in the spirits industry before suffering a life-changing stroke. Following years of recovery, he returned with a renewed focus: building a family-led spirits company grounded in resilience, authenticity, and a shared passion for the craft.
“When I was finally able to get back to work, I turned to my family,” said Jason Wooler, President and Founder of Wooler Brands. “What we’re building is deeply personal. It’s something I’m proud of, something that tastes great, and is made with the people I love. After not knowing if I’d get another shot, this truly feels like the good life.”
The brand is already gaining early traction, including in Georgia through its partnership with Savannah Distributing Company, a family-owned beverage distributor that has served the state since 1938.
“We’ve always valued brands with authentic stories and people who truly care about what they’re building,” said Henry Monsees, President of Savannah Distributing Company. “I’ve known Jason for many years, and it’s been inspiring to watch him build Wooler Brands alongside his family. As a family-owned company ourselves, we connected immediately with what they’re creating. The products are already selling well in Georgia, and consumers are responding to the brand’s authenticity.”
A Comeback Story
Jason Wooler spent three decades building a career that took him from entry-level merchandiser to Executive Vice President at one of the largest wine and spirits distributors in the United States. Along the way, he worked with leading brands like Jim Beam and built lasting distributor relationships. He also co-founded a spirits brand, identifying an emerging category trend early and turning it into a label with a devoted national following.
After suffering a stroke, Wooler faced a long recovery. When he was ready to return, he chose to build something new alongside his family, combining decades of experience with a shared commitment to the business. That decision is at the heart of Wooler Brands: a modern spirits company run with real family involvement.
The Whiskey & Vodka
Wooler Whiskey is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon distilled in Bardstown, Kentucky, and aged for more than five years in small-batch barrels. The bourbon features a mash bill of 72% corn, 18% rye, 5% malted barley, and 5% wheat, and is matured in heavy char #3 barrels before being bottled at 45% ABV (90 proof). Designed for both sipping and cocktails, it delivers a balanced, approachable flavor profile, with notes of bright citrus and aged oak leading to a smooth caramel finish. It retails for $39.99 per bottle. Wooler Whiskey received a Gold Medal and 90-point rating at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
JP Vodka is made in Texas from 100% corn and bottled at 80 proof. Naturally gluten-free, it is crafted using high-purity reverse-osmosis water with no added minerals and is six-times distilled, resulting in a clean, smooth, and versatile vodka that reflects the brand’s commitment to quality and drinkability. It retails for $29.99 per bottle. JP Vodka received a Gold Medal and 91-point rating at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
The Wooler logo, a sheep wearing a tilted crown, nods to the family’s English farming heritage and captures the brand’s personality: approachable, a little irreverent, and not taking itself too seriously. The brand’s tagline, “Take a Sip of the Good Life,” is an invitation to slow down, enjoy the moment, and share a drink with good company.
Wooler Brands is a true family-run business, with each member playing a hands-on role. Jason Wooler serves as President and Founder, guiding the company’s vision and strategy. Amy Wooler, Operations Manager, oversees day-to-day operations and has been a steady force behind both the business and Jason’s recovery. Chuck Wooler, Business Development Manager, leads market expansion and product strategy, drawing on his experience in on-premise sales. Patrick Wooler, Sales and Marketing Manager, focuses on brand growth and consumer engagement, while Betsy Wooler, Creative Director, shapes the brand’s visual identity, including its signature sheep-and-crown logo.
Availability
Wooler Whiskey and JP Vodka are currently available in California and Georgia, with additional states expected in the coming months.
Sources consulted (web research):
- Take A Sip Of The Good Life Wooler Brands Introduces Wooler Whiskey A…
- Wooler Brands Launches New Kentucky Bourbon
- The Worlds Best Bourbons According To The International Wine Spirits…
- Wooler Whiskey
Source: BevNET