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“It’s been quite a whirlwind – but it’s been a lot of fun,” Eric LeGrand recently told NJBIZ, referring to the recent one-year anniversary of his namesake liquor brand, Eric LeGrand Bourbon.

The label he co-founded with Brian Axelrod marked its first year of operations March 1. It celebrated shortly after with an anniversary party March 15 at The Office Tavern Grill in Summit. And NJBIZ was on hand for the festivities at 40North Restaurants establishment.

At the event, LeGrand and Axelrod presented a check for $9,064 to the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation. That total, derived from 2023 sales, is part of a pledge to donate $5.20 of every case of bourbon sold to the foundation.

LeGrand has long partnered with the Reeve Foundation. The organization supports those living with and impacted by paralysis by working to find the cure for spinal cord injuries.

“Proud to celebrate our one-year anniversary and present the @reevefoundation with the first of many checks! Our bourbon offers a way for those who are living with paralysis and those who are not impaired by it, to enjoy sipping on a quality bourbon, while coming together to support a foundation that gives back to anyone impacted by this condition #bELieve,” the brand wrote in a March 15 Instagram post following the event.

A ‘LeGrand’ gesture

The ceremony also introduced a signature cocktail, the LeGrand Bourbon Smash, which is available until April at 40North Restaurants. The hospitality group will donate a portion from each cocktail to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, as well. The drink mix features Eric LeGrand Bourbon, mint, lemon and more.

“I think that’s incredible because not only did they bring in our product to their locations, but they’re hosting our party, and also, giving back as well – like we are,” said LeGrand. “That’s a grand slam right there.”

The event offered the opportunity to reflect on an exciting first year. Looking ahead, there are big plans in the future for the burgeoning brand with a uniquely Jersey story, including expansion and more.

“We couldn’t be happier with how the first year has gone,” Axelrod, co-founder of Eric LeGrand Bourbon, told NJBIZ.

“We’re obviously excited for year two,” said LeGrand. “Year one went by at lightning speed.”

In the upcoming March 25 issue of NJBIZ, we take a closer look at the first year of Eric LeGrand Bourbon with the Rutgers legend, as well as talk about his coffeehouse, upcoming areas of focus, and much more.