Bourbon enthusiasts, take note: a rare opportunity to own an entire barrel of Pappy Van Winkle 15-Year-Old bourbon has arrived. Sazerac, the parent company of Buffalo Trace Distillery, is hosting an auction that not only offers exclusive prizes but also benefits a noble cause. Proceeds from the event will support victims of the devastating L.A. wildfires, with funds directed to World Central Kitchen and Another Round Another Rally, two organizations dedicated to disaster relief and community rebuilding.
The Auction: A Historic Opportunity
The centerpiece of the auction is a single barrel of Pappy Van Winkle 15-Year-Old bourbon. This is no ordinary bourbon; it is part of a legendary lineup known for its scarcity and premium quality. While single-barrel releases of Pappy have occurred in the past, this marks the first time since the early 2000s—when Sazerac joined forces with the Van Winkle family—that such an offering has been made available.
The auction began at noon and runs through 11:59 p.m. EST on Sunday, February 23. Bidding for the barrel starts at $10,000, with increments of $1,000 allowed. The winner will receive approximately 125 bottles from the barrel and the empty barrel itself, as regulations prevent the direct transfer of alcohol. Additionally, the winner will be awarded a monetary prize equivalent to the lot’s value to cover bottle purchases.
What’s Up for Grabs?
While the single barrel is the auction’s crown jewel, there are two other enticing prizes:
- A Complete Pappy Van Winkle Collection - This includes every age statement in the lineup—10, 12, 15, 20, and 23 years—plus the rare 13-Year-Old Family Reserve Rye.
- A Bottle of Eagle Rare 25-Year-Old Bourbon - Known for its extraordinary aging and unparalleled depth of flavor, this bottle is among the rarest in the bourbon world.
Bidding for these additional items is more accessible, with increments of $50 donations. Winners will be determined through a random drawing the week of March 3 and will be contacted via phone and email.
Supporting a Worthy Cause
The auction serves a greater purpose beyond bourbon fandom. All proceeds will directly aid wildfire victims in Los Angeles, many of whom have lost their homes and livelihoods. World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit dedicated to providing meals in disaster-stricken areas, and Another Round Another Rally, which supports hospitality workers in need, are the beneficiaries of this effort.
How to Participate
Bidding is open on the Sazerac auction website, and participants are encouraged to contribute generously. Even those who do not win a prize can take comfort in knowing their donations will make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by the wildfires.
The Legacy of Pappy Van Winkle
Pappy Van Winkle bourbons are among the most sought-after spirits globally. Their limited production and exceptional quality have turned them into collector’s items, often commanding thousands of dollars per bottle in secondary markets. The 15-Year-Old variety, offered in this auction, is particularly cherished for its balanced flavor profile—a midpoint between youthful vibrancy and the richness of extended aging.
Final Thoughts
This auction is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for bourbon enthusiasts to secure rare treasures while contributing to a meaningful cause. Whether you’re bidding on the single barrel, the full Pappy collection, or the exclusive Eagle Rare 25, every dollar spent will help rebuild lives and support communities in need. For anyone passionate about bourbon and charitable giving, this is an event not to be missed.
