Imagine getting the chance to step into the shoes of a bourbon legend, picking your own barrel of a whiskey that's been off the market for a decade, all while helping kids fight cancer. That's the heart of the new Elmer T. Lee Charity Sweepstakes from Sazerac Barrel Select. This isn't just another raffle - it's a shot at owning a piece of bourbon history, with every entry supporting St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. For guys who appreciate a good pour and giving back, this setup hits all the right notes.
The sweepstakes kicks off on September 8, 2025, at 8 a.m. Eastern time and wraps up by 11:59 p.m. on September 30. Anyone can jump in by donating $100 per entry through the official site, and all the money - minus just the basic fees - goes straight to St. Jude. No need to be a member of anything; it's open to the public. The winner gets drawn randomly the week of October 6 and notified by phone and email. If you're 21 or older and live in the U.S. or D.C. (sorry, New York folks are out), you're eligible. And get this: you don't even have to donate to enter - there's a no-purchase way in the rules, but donating boosts the cause.
What makes this so special? Elmer T. Lee isn't just a name on a bottle; he's the guy who basically invented the single-barrel bourbon game. Back in 1949, he started at what was then the George T. Stagg Distillery - now Buffalo Trace - as a maintenance engineer. He climbed the ladder fast, becoming plant manager and master distiller, modernizing the place and setting new standards. In 1984, he launched Blanton's, the first single-barrel bourbon ever. Then, after retiring in 1986, they honored him with his own label: Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey. It's picked and bottled to match the high bar he set himself.
Fans have been clamoring for more of this stuff since the last barrel was selected 10 years ago. Some old-timers even talk about tasting barrels right there with Elmer. Diego Bianchi, who runs Sazerac Barrel Select, puts it plain: Elmer's the father of single-barrel bourbon because he created Blanton's and kicked off the original select program. This sweepstakes brings it back in a big way, and tying it to St. Jude just feels right.
The prize? It's the kind of experience that turns into family stories for years. The winner and up to seven buddies (all 21-plus) get a one-night stay at Stagg Lodge, plus a VIP tour of Buffalo Trace Distillery. We're talking behind-the-scenes access, a private catered lunch, and the main event: a barrel selection session. You'll thieve samples, taste them, and pick your barrel with Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley himself. Harlen started at Buffalo Trace in 1995 and learned the ropes directly from Elmer. He recalls spending time with him at work and beyond, soaking up stories about the industry. Harlen calls Elmer a friend, mentor, and advisor, and he's excited to keep that legacy going through this event.
On top of that, there's an $18,000 cash prize. You can use it to buy the bottles from your chosen barrel, each one with a personalized medallion. That's a haul of rare bourbon tailored just for you. No booze comes as part of the prize itself - it's all about the experience and the option to purchase - but at an approximate value of $18,000, it's a serious win.
Sazerac Barrel Select, or SBS, is the program behind all this. It's free to join, and it lets small groups or individuals hand-pick barrels from Buffalo Trace and other Sazerac spots. They do quarterly drawings for members, but this sweepstakes opens the door wide. Last year, SBS teamed up with St. Jude for a Blanton's Gold version and pulled in over $1 million. Over the past few years, they've raised more than $4 million for various charities. If you're not already in, signing up is easy and could lead to more barrel-picking adventures.
Now, about the bourbon itself: Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel is balanced and full-bodied, with aromas of clove, vanilla, and that worn-leather scent that takes you back to old-school quality. On the taste, it's got fruit notes mixed with honey and vanilla, plus a subtle spice that doesn't overpower. It's the kind of sip that rewards taking your time, maybe over a quiet evening or sharing with friends who get it.
Sazerac, the company running the show, has roots going back over 400 years. They're family-owned into the fourth generation and focus on top-shelf spirits for folks everywhere. Their lineup includes over 500 brands like Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare, Weller, Fireball, Southern Comfort, and a bunch more - from rums and whiskeys to cognacs. They own distilleries around the world, including Buffalo Trace in Kentucky, one in Cognac, France, another in India, and Ireland, plus operations in places like New Orleans and London.
Then there's St. Jude, the real hero here. This hospital leads the charge against childhood cancer and other tough diseases. Back when it opened in 1962, most kids with cancer didn't make it - survival was around 20%. Now, thanks to their work, it's over 80%, and they're pushing for 100%. They're the only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center just for kids. St. Jude shares what they learn with doctors worldwide, improving care everywhere. Best part: families never pay a dime for treatment, travel, housing, or food. It's all about letting parents focus on their kid. Donors make that possible, and stories from there show real hope and grit.
For full rules or to enter, head to www.SazeracBarrelSelect.com/drawing. Questions? Email charity@sazerac.com. Remember, odds depend on entries, and it's void where prohibited. Sazerac Company out of Louisville, Kentucky, is the sponsor.
This sweepstakes isn't just about scoring rare whiskey - it's a nod to a man's legacy who shaped an industry, a way to create your own memories, and a solid chance to support families in the fight of their lives. If bourbon's your thing and you've got a soft spot for doing good, this could be the perfect blend.
