Just a few weeks ago, Buffalo Trace offered whiskey fans a chance to bid on a single barrel of Pappy Van Winkle, among other things, to help support the victims of the L.A. wildfires. Well, apparently the Kentucky distillery is continuing its altruistic streak, because starting today nonprofit organizations can apply to the 100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities initiative to receive some of its most valuable bottles to auction off to raise money for a series of good causes.
100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities launched last year, and according to Buffalo Trace it helped to support charities across 36 states by raising more than $134,000 for issues like veteran services, youth education and programming, cancer treatment, and animal rescue and adoption. The initiative was inspired by the legacy of Colonel E.H. Taylor, a former owner of Buffalo Trace in the late 19th century (back when it was called O.F.C.) and an important figure in passing the Bottled-in-Bond Act. Those guidelines exist to this day, referring to whiskey that is at least four years old, bottled at 100 proof, aged in federally bonded warehouses, and the product of one distillery and one distillation season.
“It is incredible to see the work being done by nonprofit organizations around the country and we believe Taylor would be proud to know his legacy continues to bring such a positive change to countless communities,” said Buffalo Trace global brand director Andrew Duncan in a statement. “The 100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities initiative celebrates those who, like Taylor, have a passion for improving the world. We are proud to support nonprofit organizations in their efforts to better lives and communities.”
Here’s how it works: Interested charities can apply via the Buffalo Trace website starting today, which also happens to be (the totally made-up industry holiday) Bottled-in-Bond Day. Applications must be received by June 11, and the selected charities will be announced the week of July 28. Bottle sets will be delivered no later than 30 days after that, and they will include things like the colonel’s namesake E.H. Taylor Jr., Blanton’s, Eagle Rare, Weller and more (no word if Pappy might be in the mix as well, but one can hope). Buffalo Trace will transport the bottles to the individual charities that make the cut, and they can be auctioned off or used to raise money in other manners per the legal guidelines of each individual state. Lastly, the bottle sets must be used to raise money by December 31, with the amounts reported back to the distillery by then.
