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Case Study: Eric LeGrand Kentucky Straight Bourbon – A Partnership of Purpose and Passion

eric-legrand-bourbon-brand

Industry

Bourbon Whiskey

Challenge

The challenge for Eric and Brian was to create a bourbon that could stand out in a competitive market dominated by Kentucky-based brands, leveraging Kentucky’s esteemed reputation while ensuring the bourbon's quality and the brand’s mission resonated with consumers.

Results

Market Reception: The bourbon has been well-received in New Jersey, with plans for strategic expansion into other states. Community Impact: Significant contributions to the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation align the brand with a meaningful cause, strengthening its appeal among socially conscious consumers. Brand Longevity: Eric and Brian’s long-term vision for the brand emphasizes sustained growth and impact.

Key Product

Eric LeGrand Kentucky Straight Bourbon

$520
Donation per Case
NJ
Initial Market
NY/MA
Expansion Markets
100k +
Total Donations

We wanted to create a bourbon that not only stands out for its quality but also makes a meaningful impact. With every bottle sold, we’re contributing to finding a cure for paralysis while sharing a story of resilience and purpose.

Eric LeGrand

Co-Founder of Eric LeGrand Kentucky Straight Bourbon

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About

Eric LeGrand Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a New Jersey-based bourbon brand co-founded by Eric LeGrand, a former Rutgers football player, and Brian Axelrod, a successful spirits entrepreneur. The brand aims to combine top-quality bourbon with a mission to support the community.

The Challenge

Eric LeGrand and Brian Axelrod faced the challenge of creating a bourbon that could stand out in a highly competitive market dominated by well-established Kentucky-based brands. They needed to leverage Kentucky’s esteemed reputation while ensuring their bourbon's quality and the brand’s mission resonated with consumers. This was crucial for establishing credibility and differentiation in the crowded spirits industry.

The Solution

Eric and Brian decided to partner with the Brindiamo Group, a leading supplier of bulk bourbon and whiskey, to ensure their product met the high standards required to compete in the market. Brindiamo's network facilitated access to top-quality Kentucky Straight Bourbon, allowing Eric and Brian to focus on storytelling and brand-building. They implemented mission-driven marketing by donating $520 to the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation for every case sold, honoring Eric’s Rutgers jersey number, 52. This initiative underscored their commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities and finding a cure for paralysis.

The Results

Eric LeGrand Kentucky Straight Bourbon has been well-received in its initial market of New Jersey, laying a strong foundation for expansion into neighboring states like New York and Massachusetts. The brand’s significant contributions to the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation have resonated with socially conscious consumers, enhancing its appeal. Eric and Brian’s long-term vision for the brand emphasizes sustained growth and impact, ensuring the brand's longevity in the competitive spirits industry.