Cannon Tramway is latest NH commemorative bottle, which will hold Granite State whiskey for the first time

The Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway is the subject of the latest commemorative liquor bottle from the New Hampshire Liquor Commission, and for the first time, the special bottle will hold New Hampshire-made liquor.

The bottle, which can be bought at NH Liquor & Wine Outlet locations for $34.99, is filled with bourbon whiskey from Flag Hill Distillery & Winery in Lee, the state’s oldest distillery and winery. New Hampshire has sold a number of state-themed commemorative bottles over the past 11 years but previously they have held liquor from out-of-state distilleries.

Established in 1938, the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway carries tourists and skiers to the 4,080-foot top of Cannon Mountain in Franconia Notch State Park. The state plans to update the aging equipment but the only bid on the project was far more than the $18 million approved in the state budget, leading to an ongoing push for more money.

The tram was installed on Cannon Mountain in 1938, making it the first tramway in North America. It was completely replaced in 1978-80 by the current tram.

The Liquor Commission says it has raised nearly $284,000 through the sales of commemorative bottles. Proceeds have supported various historical initiatives, including the preservation of the New Hampshire Hall of Flags and for education and commemoration of New Hampshire’s Bicentennial Celebration.

Proceeds generated by the limited-edition Tramway bottle will support the American Revolution Sestercentennial Trust Fund, which works to organize this year’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.