American Whiskey Association Welcomes 291 Colorado Whiskey as Craft Brand Member

WASHINGTON — Feb. 17, 2026 — The American Whiskey Association (AWA) today announced that 291 Colorado Whiskey has been approved by the association’s executive leadership to join the organization as a Craft Brand Member.

Founded in Colorado Springs, 291 Colorado Whiskey has earned international recognition for its bold, innovative approach to American whiskey production and its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

“291 Colorado Whiskey represents exactly what the American whiskey category does best — independent thinking, serious craftsmanship, and a willingness to push boundaries while respecting tradition,” said Michael Bilello, president and CEO of the American Whiskey Association. “We’re excited to welcome Michael and his team and look forward to working together to strengthen the future of American whiskey.”

“Joining the American Whiskey Association is an important and exciting step for 291 Colorado Whiskey,” said Michael Myers, founder of 291 Colorado Whiskey. “AWA’s focus on advocacy, integrity, and elevating American whiskey globally aligns well with how we think about building our brand and contributing to the broader industry.”

As the national voice for American whiskey, AWA works to advance advocacy from grain to glass,  supporting the farmers who grow corn, rye, wheat and barley; the coopers who craft new charred American white oak barrels; the distillers who produce and age the spirit; and the hospitality and tourism sectors that bring it to consumers. Based in Washington, D.C., the association is focused on expanding fair market access for American whiskey exports, strengthening trade relationships, and ensuring producers of all sizes can compete on a level playing field in key global markets. By championing sound public policy and durable trade frameworks, AWA is working to secure long-term growth opportunities for American whiskey at home and abroad.

About 291 Colorado Whiskey

Founded in Colorado Springs, 291 Colorado Whiskey is an award-winning craft distillery known for its bold, innovative approach to American whiskey. Established by Michael Myers, 291 produces small-batch rye, bourbon and other American whiskeys from grain, aged in new American oak barrels and often finished with signature aspen staves to create distinctive flavor profiles. With a commitment to craftsmanship, transparency and pushing the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making, 291 Colorado Whiskey has earned international recognition for quality and character.

For more information, visit www.291coloradowhiskey.com

About the American Whiskey Association

The American Whiskey Association (AWA) is the national trade organization dedicated to promoting, protecting and leading the American whiskey industry. AWA advocates for sound public policy, fair and transparent regulatory frameworks, and market conditions that allow American whiskey producers of all sizes to compete and thrive. Through coordinated advocacy, industry engagement and collaboration across the distilling community, AWA works to safeguard the integrity of the category and advance its mission to ensure American whiskey is not only America’s native spirit — but the world’s whiskey.