Key Takeaways:
- Bardstown Bourbon Company is launching an NFC-enabled gifting program that lets consumers add a message, photo, or video to a bottle through a smartphone tap.
- Developed with Eurostampa and io.tt, the program brings connected packaging to a consumer-driven gifting experience across retail, events, and direct requests.
Bardstown Bourbon Company is deploying NFC technology in its packaging that allows for personalization of their products.
Bourbon Gifting Reimagined is being touted as a first-of-its-kind innovation in American whiskey that transforms how consumers personalize and share a bottle. While NFC technology has appeared in packaging before, it has never been deployed at scale as a secondary, consumer-driven gifting application until now, according to company officials.
Launching ahead of Father’s Day, the program allows consumers to apply a premium NFC sticker to any bottle and attach a custom message, photo, or video that lives directly with the gift. Using a smartphone, the recipient unlocks a personal experience created by the giver— turning a great bottle into something that lasts well beyond the pour.
Why is Bardstown Bourbon Company Deploying NFC Technology
While spirits brands have historically used connected packaging to ensure authenticity or deliver brand storytelling, Bardstown program shifts the focus to the consumer— giving them a simple, intuitive way to create and share their own story directly on the bottle, according to Dan Callaway, Master Blender.
“At Bardstown Bourbon Company, we’re always exploring what bourbon can become,” said Callaway in a statement. “This is a natural extension of that mindset. It’s not about changing the bottle— it’s about adding something to it. Something personal. Something that lasts.”
What are the Benefits of Using NFC Packaging
The technology behind the program was developed in partnership with Eurostampa and io.tt, combining premium label craftsmanship with a seamless digital experience.
By embedding NFC tag technology into the special front-label medallion, Bardstown Bourbon Company has unlocked a personalized gifting experience unique to the American whiskey category, said Ermanno Bosco who leads marketing innovation for Eurostampa North America.
“Unlike hidden back-label QR codes, NFC labels preserve a premium look while delivering immediate, purposeful value to consumers with a single phone tap,” said Bosco. “We believe the future of packaging lies in elevated engagement, and we are excited to help Bardstown shepherd the industry forward.”
Where Will the Bottles Be Available
While the launch is around Father’s Day, Bourbon Gifting Reimagined is designed to extend far beyond a single occasion. The digital platform supports a range of moments— from birthdays and celebrations to thank-yous and everyday gestures— turning the bottle into a lasting expression of connection.
Cameron Worth, Founder and CEO of io.tt, stated “This is where connected packaging becomes truly meaningful. Instead of brands simply pushing content, this platform lets consumers create something of their own. Bardstown saw that opportunity and made it effortless—one tap, and the bottle becomes personal.”
The program will be available nationwide across retail, events, and at the brand’s Bardstown distillery and Louisville Tasting Room. Consumers can request an NFC sticker to be shipped directly to their home at no cost by visiting bardstownbourbon.com/gifting.