For folks in Pennsylvania who appreciate a good pour of something special, there's a chance right now to get your hands on some of the hardest-to-find bourbons and whiskeys out there. The state's Liquor Control Board is running a lottery that's got everyone talking, with over 3,700 bottles up for grabs, including some that go for thousands of dollars on the secondary market. It's all happening through the Fine Wine & Good Spirits program, and the deadline to throw your hat in the ring is coming up fast—Friday, August 8, at 5 p.m.
This isn't your everyday liquor store run. The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board has put together nine different lotteries that cover 10 top-shelf products. These are the kinds of bottles that collectors dream about, with prices starting at just under 60 bucks and climbing all the way to nearly 7,500 dollars. Anyone who's a resident or a licensed business in the state can enter, and you don't have to pick just one—you can try for as many lotteries as you want. But keep it fair: each household gets only one shot per lottery, and if they spot any duplicates, those entries are out.
The way it works is straightforward but smart to prevent folks from gaming the system. If you win the right to buy a bottle in the first round of a lottery, you're automatically pulled from any later drawings in that same one. That means more chances for others to score. The whole process is random, done by a computer under the watchful eye of an outside group to make sure everything's on the level. They check entries for matching names, addresses, and other details to weed out cheats.
Let's break down what's available, because these aren't your standard shelf stock. Topping the list is the Weller Millennium Straight Bourbon, priced at $7,499.99 a bottle. There are 45 of these for regular folks and 15 set aside for businesses. This one's a real unicorn—smooth, aged to perfection, and the kind of thing you'd sip slow on a quiet evening after a long week.
Then there's the Eagle Rare Double Eagle Very Rare Straight Bourbon at $2,999.99 each. Only eight bottles for consumers and two for licensees, so the odds are slim, but imagine adding that to your collection. It's got that deep, oaky flavor profile that hits just right.
For something a bit more accessible in price but still elite, check out the Woodford Reserve Baccarat Edition Straight Bourbon at $2,199.99. Four for individuals and one for businesses—perfect for those who like their whiskey with a touch of luxury.
If you're into sets, the Buffalo Trace Prohibition Collection Number 2 is a standout. It comes as five 375 mL bottles for $999.99, with six collections for consumers and two for licensees. This pays homage to the old days, packed with history and bold tastes that remind you why whiskey's been a staple for generations.
On the more everyday rare side—though still tough to find—is Blanton's Straight From The Barrel Bourbon at $157.99. They've got 213 bottles for regular buyers and 70 for businesses. It's unfiltered, straight-up potent, and a favorite for those who like their bourbon with some kick.
And don't overlook the Stagg Straight Bourbon Barrel Proof at just $59.99. This one's got the biggest allocation: 2,016 bottles for consumers and 671 for licensees. Barrel strength means it's intense, full of caramel and spice notes that make it a go-to for mixing or straight up.
To get in on this, you need an active account on FWGS.com, and make sure your billing info is current. When you register, pick a Fine Wine & Good Spirits store where you'll grab your win if luck's on your side. No shipping here—winners have to show up in person, flash a valid photo ID, and handle the pickup themselves. No sending a buddy or family member; it's got to be you.
The board's clear about the rules to keep things above board. Selling these lottery bottles without the proper license? That's against the law in Pennsylvania, and they're not messing around. It's all about enjoying the spirits responsibly and legally.
With 3,705 bottles total spread across these lotteries, it's a solid opportunity for anyone who's built up a home bar over the years or just wants to treat themselves to something exceptional. Whether you're eyeing that high-end Weller for a milestone celebration or stocking up on Stagg for weekend gatherings, this setup gives everyday guys a fair crack at bottles that usually vanish before they hit the shelves.
The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board has made it easy to dive deeper—head over to FWGS.com for the full rundown, including all the terms and conditions. That's where you'll find every detail on how the lotteries are structured, what each product brings to the table, and tips on registering without hiccups.
Events like this remind us why whiskey's more than just a drink—it's about tradition, craftsmanship, and that satisfying burn after a solid day's work. If you've ever swapped stories with buddies over a glass, you know the appeal. But time's ticking; get those entries in before August 8 at 5 p.m., or you'll be kicking yourself when you hear about who scored what.
In a world where good things are hard to come by, this lottery levels the playing field a bit. No need for connections or endless hunting; just sign up, cross your fingers, and maybe you'll be the one raising a toast with a bottle worth bragging about.
