Old Fourth Distillery and Dragon Con Unite for an Annual Bourbon Collaboration Celebrating Atlanta’s Creative Spirit

Two of Atlanta’s most iconic institutions—Old Fourth Distillery and Dragon Con—have officially joined forces in a first-of-its-kind partnership that celebrates their shared hometown pride, creativity, and craftsmanship. This partnership introduces Dragon Con Bourbon, marking the beginning of an annual limited-edition release designed for collectors, con-goers, and bourbon enthusiasts alike.

Handcrafted and bottled right here in Metro Atlanta by Old Fourth Distillery, Batch One of Dragon Con Bourbon is a small-batch release of just 2,500 hand-numbered bottles, making it as rare and distinctive as the costumes and characters that fill Atlanta’s streets every Labor Day weekend.

This year, Dragon Con 2025 returns to downtown Atlanta from August 29 to September 1, bringing more than 80,000 fans from around the world to celebrate the best in sci-fi, fantasy, gaming, comics, cosplay, and pop culture. For one incredible weekend, the city transforms into a living, breathing celebration of creativity—and this year, for the first time, that energy is captured in a bottle.

“We’re beyond excited to partner with Old Fourth Distillery—an Atlanta original—to create a bourbon that reflects the bold, creative spirit of our city,” said Rachel Reeves, Co-Chair and Senior Director of Guests and Media at Dragon Con. “This collaboration is rooted in our shared commitment to Atlanta, and to the communities that make both Dragon Con and Old Fourth so special. We see this as more than just a bottle—it’s a new tradition. A yearly collectible that fans can sip, share, and celebrate for years to come.”

“At Old Fourth, we’ve always believed great spirits should tell a story—and no one tells stories quite like the Dragon Con community,” said Clinton Dugan, Co-Owner & Master Blender at Old Fourth Distillery. “We’re both homegrown Atlanta institutions with passionate fanbases and deep creative roots. This partnership isn’t just about bourbon; it’s about celebrating the energy, imagination, and originality that make this city one of a kind. We’re proud to bottle that spirit together.”

This release marks the launch of an annual Dragon Con Bourbon series, with each year offering a new collectible label and a distinct flavor profile—crafted to surprise and delight both bourbon enthusiasts and fans of the con. While produced under the historic Old Fourth Distillery name, the bourbon is made possible by Shortbarrel Bourbon, the proud owner of Old Fourth and a rising force in the world of premium craft whiskey.

Based in Georgia and deeply committed to quality, Shortbarrel acquired Old Fourth Distillery to preserve its Atlanta legacy while expanding its reach and innovation. Together, the two brands continue to champion small-batch excellence, focusing on storytelling, community, and craftsmanship.

Crafted in metro Atlanta and numbered for authenticity, only 2,500 bottles of this inaugural batch exist, making it a true collector’s item for bourbon lovers and Dragon Con fans alike. Bottled at 100 proof and blended from a selection of 4- to 6-year-old bourbons, this limited release offers a bold yet approachable flavor profile that reflects the spirit of the con itself. Expect a balanced pour with notes of warm oak, subtle spice, and a touch of sweetness—crafted to be as welcoming as it is bold.

With a suggested retail price of just $39.99, it’s not only collectible—it’s accessible. Whether you plan to enjoy it neat or display it proudly on your shelf, this is a bottle that’s expected to sell quickly.

Dragon Con Bourbon is now available for presale exclusively through Shortbarrel Bourbon’s website, with in-store availability rolling out in July at select retailers across Georgia. 

Dragon Con Bourbon: Made in Atlanta. Made for fans and made to be remembered.

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