A Love of Baseball and Whiskey Comes Together for Charity

New York, NY — [November 10, 2025] — Proof and Wood Ventures announces the release of Matt’s Mitt Bourbon Whiskey, a special edition Heavy Rye Bourbon inspired by an extraordinary true story that connects America’s two great pastimes—baseball and whiskey—and supports a cause that truly matters.

At 105 proof and crafted from a 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% barley mash bill, Matt’s Mitt delivers bold rye spice balanced with sweet corn richness. The result is a six-year-old bourbon with remarkable depth and character—proof that true greatness is defined not by age, but by authenticity.

The name Matt’s Mitt honors a remarkable moment of curiosity and passion that began decades ago in Cooperstown, home of the Baseball Hall of Fame. At just twelve years old, Matt—an avid baseball fan—noticed something amiss in a museum display. A mitt attributed to a 1920s player looked out of place. His sharp eye and persistence led the Hall to discover that the glove was actually from the player’s 1950s coaching days.

Weeks later, Matt received a letter from the curator: his discovery had earned him recognition as the youngest fan ever honored in the Hall of Fame. That spirit of authenticity and attention to detail is now captured in this whiskey.

“When I was younger, I loved baseball—my friends and I could recite every stat on the backs of the cards. As I grew older, my passion for whiskey grew just as strong. Now my newest and perhaps greatest passion is giving back. Being able to combine all three—to celebrate baseball, savor whiskey, and support a worthy cause—is a true blessing, and I’m thrilled that Matt’s Mitt can make a meaningful difference in the fight against cancer,” said Dr. Matt Lurin, founder of the Water of Life Charity Event.

“Matt’s Mitt is about character,” says Dave Schmier, founder of Proof and Wood Ventures. “Matt’s story reminds us that passion, knowledge, and integrity define greatness—whether in baseball or whiskey. This bourbon celebrates that spirit.”

Created in support of Matt’s Water of Life Charity Event, this release also gives back in a meaningful way—all bottle profits go toward fighting cancer, raising a glass that truly gives back.

The charity events typically run twice a year, with the Spring Water of Life Event and this Thursday’s Water of Life Fall Event (the WOLF). The WOLF is an exclusive whisky tasting that pairs representatives of the finest whiskey companies in the world with exceptional bottles, great food, and exclusive cigars. Proceeds from the event are donated to The Life Raft Group, which funds groundbreaking research into GIST cancer treatment. Starting at Keen’s and ending at The Carnegie Club, it’s a chance to enjoy great food, wonderful cigars, amazing company, and incredible unicorn drams. 

Each bottle of Matt’s Mitt Heavy Rye Bourbon celebrates fans, collectors, and all who appreciate the stories behind what they love. The label design nods to baseball’s golden era while staying true to Proof and Wood’s timeless whiskey style.

So pour a glass, raise a toast, and remember: Not all mitts—and not all whiskies—are created equal.

PRODUCT DETAILS

·       Name: Matt’s Mitt Heavy Rye Bourbon Whiskey

·       Mash Bill: 60% Corn, 36% Rye, 4% Barley

·       Proof: 105 (52.5% ABV)

·       Age: 6 Years

·       Style: Straight Bourbon Whiskey

·       Availability: Limited Release, select markets. The bottles will be available in early November to coincide with Matt's annual WOLF event in NYC.

·       SRP: $59.99

·       Charity: Profits support Matt’s Water of Life Cancer Charity Event

ABOUT PROOF AND WOOD VENTURES

Proof and Wood sources, blends, and bottles exceptional spirits that tell a story. Founded by Dave Schmier, Proof and Wood has earned acclaim for its distinctive portfolio, including the Deadwood, Tumblin’ Dice, and The Funk Jamaican Rum lines. Each release highlights craftsmanship, transparency, and the art of selection.