NH Liquor Commission unveils new commemorative bottle in the shape of NH

The Telegraph, Nashua, N.H.
·3 min read

Jul. 8—CONCORD — The New Hampshire Liquor Commission (NHLC) recently released its latest commemorative bottle, which is molded in the shape of the state of New Hampshire and features well-known Granite State attractions and landmarks, including Mount Washington, Lake Winnipesaukee and Santa's Village. The new Granite State commemorative bottles are available at select NH Liquor and Wine Outlets for $29.99 each. Proceeds from sales of the bottle, which is filled with premium straight Kentucky bourbon, will support the preservation and restoration of the New Hampshire Hall of Flags.

NHLC launched its commemorative bottle program in 2013 to raise funding for the New Hampshire Hall of Flags at the State House, which houses 115 war-torn, bloodstained battle flags from the Civil War, World War I, World War II and the Vietnam War. Since the program was launched, bottle sales have generated more than $225,600, supporting the preservation and restoration of the deteriorating flags that are displayed at the main entrance of the New Hampshire State House.

"I am pleased this year's commemorative bottle showcases much of what New Hampshire has to offer and celebrates our state's storied history," said Governor Chris Sununu. "The New Hampshire Liquor Commission's commemorative bottle program has been a resounding success in raising an incredible amount of money for New Hampshire's historic Hall of Flags over the past nine years."

In 2012, State Senator David Watters co-sponsored Senate Bill 155, which called on NHLC to produce a commemorative liquor bottle with proceeds going to the flags' preservation. Other sponsors at the time included Senator David Boutin, House Speaker Terie Norelli, and Representatives David Hess and Janet Wall.

Since 2013, NHLC has developed commemorative bottles depicting the iconic Old Man of the Mountain, a New Hampshire camping theme, the Hall of Flags itself, and most recently, the New Hampshire State House, which was the first bottle to be filled with bourbon. Previous bottles were filled with premium vodka, rum and American whiskey.

"There are so many wonderful things about New Hampshire and to showcase some of the Granite State's most popular attractions and places on this year's commemorative bottle is really special," said NHLC Chairman Joseph Mollica. "We are pleased to offer this unique bottle to our 12 million annual customers as more tourists come to visit this summer — all while raising funds to help preserve and celebrate our state's rich history."

M.S. Walker Fine Wines & Spirits developed the Granite State commemorative bottle on behalf of NHLC. M.S. Walker, founded in 1933, is a fifth-generation, family-owned spirits bottler, wine & spirits importer, and wholesale distributor. The company has been a business partner with the State of New Hampshire for more than 80 years.

"We are proud to partner with the State of New Hampshire and NHLC once again to produce a one-of-a-kind, limited-edition ceramic bottle that encapsulates New Hampshire's history and beauty," said Gary Shaw, Executive Vice President, M.S. Walker Fine Spirits & Wines. "As a fifth-generation family business, M.S. Walker has had the privilege of working with NHLC since it was founded in 1934 and we look forward to continuing our partnership through this unique commemorative bottle program."