Buffalo Trace, the iconic bourbon distillery known for producing some of the most coveted whiskey brands, is offering fans a unique opportunity to snag rare bottles while giving back to their communities. Through its “100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities” initiative, Buffalo Trace is donating sets of its most sought-after bourbon labels to nonprofits across the United States, making it possible for fans to support good causes and potentially secure bottles of Blanton’s, Eagle Rare, Weller, and more.
This program, which began accepting applications on March 3, marks the first time Buffalo Trace has organized an event of this scale. It coincides with Bottled-in-Bond Day, a nod to the legacy of Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr., a pioneer in the distilling industry and a former owner of the Buffalo Trace Distillery. Taylor’s innovations helped establish the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, the first consumer protection law in the United States.
How the Program Works
Nonprofit organizations from across the country are invited to apply for the chance to receive a set of Buffalo Trace’s premier bourbons. The 100 selected charities will each receive a collection of bottles, which can be used to raise funds through raffles, auctions, or other fundraising events. This initiative gives whiskey enthusiasts an opportunity to support causes they care about while vying for a bottle of these highly coveted bourbons.
Applications are open until June 11, and selected nonprofits will be notified the week of July 28. The donated bottle sets will be delivered within 30 days of the announcement, giving charities plenty of time to incorporate them into their fundraising strategies.
Supporting Communities Through Whiskey
Buffalo Trace’s program not only provides an exciting way for fans to access rare bourbons, but it also aims to drive meaningful change in communities nationwide. In 2024, the program’s pilot year, 36 charities from across the country raised more than $134,000 to support a wide variety of causes, including veteran services, youth education programs, cancer treatment, and animal rescue.
Andrew Duncan, Global Brand Director at Buffalo Trace, emphasized the company’s commitment to honoring Taylor’s legacy and supporting nonprofit organizations:
“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. The 100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities initiative celebrates those who, like Taylor, have a passion for improving the world.”
A Legacy of Quality and Community
The decision to launch this initiative on Bottled-in-Bond Day is steeped in history. Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr.’s work with Buffalo Trace and his push for stricter regulations in the whiskey industry helped ensure the quality and safety of spirits in the late 19th century. The Bottled-in-Bond Act established rigorous standards for whiskey, requiring it to be 100 proof, produced by a single distillery in one distilling season, and aged for at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse.
Today, Buffalo Trace continues to honor Taylor’s legacy through initiatives like “100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities” and its commitment to producing high-quality bourbon.
How to Get Involved
For bourbon fans, the key to participating in this unique opportunity is to keep an eye on local nonprofits that may receive these bottle sets. Supporting their fundraising efforts could not only contribute to a good cause but also offer a chance to bring home one of these rare bourbons.
For nonprofit organizations interested in applying, the process is straightforward. Applications are open online until June 11, and all nonprofits with a mission to create positive change in their communities are eligible. Whether a charity focuses on education, healthcare, animal welfare, or other causes, this initiative offers a powerful way to fund their work while drawing attention from whiskey enthusiasts.
A Win-Win for Whiskey Lovers and Charities
Buffalo Trace’s “100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities” initiative is a creative and impactful way to bring bourbon fans and nonprofits together. By leveraging the demand for rare bourbons like Blanton’s, Eagle Rare, and E.H. Taylor Jr., the program not only supports worthy causes but also reinforces the distillery’s legacy of quality and community involvement.
Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast eager to snag a hard-to-find bottle or a nonprofit looking for innovative ways to fundraise, this program offers something for everyone. Stay tuned to see which local charities are selected and how they’ll use these rare bottles to make a difference.
