Homecoming at Hampton has always been about coming home. Whether it be to honor our roots, celebrate shared victories, or raise a glass to the Blue and White. This year, Pirate Nation has something new to toast with.
68 Oak has partnered with Bespoken Spirits to create Hampton Heritage, a custom bourbon collection inspired by Hampton's history, traditions, and community. From its maritime-inspired character to packaging that honors our iconic campus landmarks, every element is an homage to Hampton's legacy. A dedicated portion of proceeds directly funds NIL opportunities for Hampton student-athletes.
In the Q&A below, 68 Oak Founder Jeff Granger shares the inspiration behind Hampton Heritage, why Bespoken Spirits was the right partner, and what the collaboration means for the future of the collective and Hampton student-athletes.
Inside the Hampton Heritage Partnership
Q: What made Bespoken Spirits the right partner for 68 Oak, and what does this collaboration represent for the collective?
“Bespoken Spirits stood out because of their dedication to precision, craft, and forward-thinking innovation–values that directly mirror our mission at 68 Oak
This collaboration is more than just a co-branded bottle; it represents a modern blueprint for how an NIL collective can build sustainable, premium lifestyle products that generate recurring value and pride for the Hampton University community.”
Q: How will the bourbon’s flavor, name, and packaging reflect Hampton’s history, identity, and traditions?
“Every element of the bourbon is designed as an homage to Hampton’s rich legacy, drawing inspiration from our maritime heritage by the waterfront, iconic campus landmarks, and the proud tradition of the Blue and White. From a bold, refined flavor profile developed to be savored during milestone moments to custom packaging that honors the standard of excellence Hamptonians uphold, the bottle serves as a tangible piece of university pride.”
Q: How does this partnership give alumni and supporters a new way to celebrate their connection to Hampton University?
“It gives alumni and supporters a sophisticated way to toast Hampton’s legacy while directly investing in its future.
Whether uncorked at a tailgate, an alumni gathering, or displayed in a home bar, enjoying this bourbon becomes an active ritual of community reinvestment–reminding everyone that celebrating our shared history can directly fuel the success of the next generation.”
Q: Why are Homecoming and 68 Oak Athlete Village a meaningful time and place to introduce the partnership, and how does the bourbon fit into the broader Homecoming story?
“Homecoming is the ultimate family reunion and the heartbeat of the Hampton experience. Introducing this partnership at the 68 Oak Athlete Village places it squarely where fellowship, celebration, and purpose intersect. It naturally fits into the Homecoming narrative of returning home to honor our roots, celebrate shared victories, and rally behind our student-athletes.”
Q: How will this partnership support 68 Oak’s work and create meaningful opportunities for Hampton University student-athletes?
“A dedicated portion of proceeds directly funds 68 Oak’s NIL initiatives, empowering Hampton student-athletes to maximize their personal brand, secure commercial opportunities, and develop long-term professional skills.
Beyond the financial impact, it demonstrates to our athletes what high-level business partnerships look like in practice, expanding their horizons both on and off the field.”
Celebrate Hampton Heritage
Hampton Heritage represents more than a new way to commemorate Homecoming. The collection reflects 68 Oak’s broader commitment to creating partnerships that connect Pirate Nation with meaningful opportunities to invest in Hampton student-athletes and their futures.
Homecoming guests will have the first opportunity to taste both expressions at 68 Oak Athlete Village, held on the lawn adjacent to the Hampton Convocation Center on Saturday, October 24.
Following the game, Hampton Heritage Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Hampton Heritage Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey will be available for purchase at www.68oak.com.