Washington, PA & Bristol, PA - Two of Pennsylvania’s premier rye whiskey producers,  Liberty Pole Spirits in the west and Dad’s Hat Pennsylvania Rye in the east, are proud to  announce the release of a one-of-a-kind collaborative blend. This distillery-only bottling brings  together two carefully selected barrels representing the pinnacle of each house’s craftsmanship  and shared reverence for Pennsylvania whiskey tradition. 

This limited-release rye is coming soon to both distilleries, offered exclusively on-site for  $79.99 per bottle. Bottled at a bold 119.6 proof, the blend showcases a 4 yr, 7-month-old barrel from Liberty Pole and a 6 year, 4-month-old barrel from Dad’s Hat, united in perfect  harmony. 

What makes this release truly special is not just the whiskey but the story behind it. Longtime  friends and mutual admirers, Jim Hough of Liberty Pole and Herman Mihalich of Dad’s Hat  have been exchanging lighthearted introductions for years. “He makes the best rye east of the  Alleghenies,” Jim would say. Herman would return the favor: “Jim makes the best rye west of  the Alleghenies.” What began as a friendly nod evolved into something much deeper. 

In early 2025, the two distilleries decided to collaborate in earnest. They swapped three barrels  each and independently began blending trials using one barrel from each distillery. Out of nine  possible combinations, both teams landed - without knowing - on the exact same two-barrel  blend. The result? A complex, expressive rye that blends the distinctive flavor profiles of  both distilleries, paying homage to Pennsylvania's iconic Monongahela Rye Style. 

This release is a celebration of collaboration over competition, of respect over rivalry, and of the  deep roots that connect Pennsylvania’s whiskey-making heritage from one end of the state to the  other. 

Quantities are extremely limited. Bottles will be available exclusively at Liberty Pole Spirits  (Washington, PA) and Dad’s Hat Pennsylvania Rye (Bristol, PA). Whiskey lovers are  encouraged to stay tuned for the official release date—this blend of East and West won’t last  long once it arrives.