Bourbon Reviews, Distillery News and Information
Pour it Forward for Kentucky – Buffalo Trace Fundraiser For Storm Relief
Buffalo Trace Distillery, in partnership with BlockBar, has launched the “Pour it Forward for Kentucky” Charity Fundraiser to support storm recovery efforts following devastating tornadoes and flooding across the state. The online auction and sweepstakes feature rare bourbons, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and collectibles from Buffalo Trace, the Van Winkle family, Chris Stapleton, PGA, and more. 100% of proceeds will go to support community relief efforts via the American Red Cross and the Franklin County Flood Relief Fund. Bidding opens May 22 and runs through 10am EST June 5.
Press Release
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Buffalo Trace Distillery & BlockBar Announce Online Fundraiser for Kentucky Storm Relief
FRANKFORT, KY (May 22, 2025) – Buffalo Trace Distillery, in partnership with BlockBar, today announces the launch of the “Pour it Forward for Kentucky” Charity Fundraiser – an exclusive online benefit event featuring some of the Distillery’s most sought-after bourbons, collectible items, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences donated by Sazerac and esteemed partners. The fundraiser responds directly to recent devastating spring storms across Kentucky, including a deadly May 16 tornado and historic April flooding. Buffalo Trace, alongside partners such as the Van Winkle family, Chris and Morgane Stapleton, PGA, and AGE International, is donating 100% of funds raised to support storm-affected communities.
“The recent spring storms have had a profound impact on communities across Kentucky and, especially in times like these, it’s essential that we rally people to support our neighbors in need,” said Jake Wenz, President & CEO, Sazerac & Buffalo Trace Distillery. “Buffalo Trace remains committed to supporting our home state, and every bid placed is a step toward helping our community recover.”
Charity Auction & Sweepstakes Details
The “Pour it Forward for Kentucky” online charity fundraiser will go live on May 22, benefitting the American Red Cross and the Franklin County Flood Relief Fund through the Blue Grass Community Foundation.
1. Auction Offerings
- A Sazerac Barrel Select experience: pick and purchase a barrel of Blanton’s Gold, VIP tour, and one-night stay at Stagg Lodge
- Ultra-aged bottlings including Weller Millennium, Eagle Rare 25, and O.F.C. Vintage 2005
- Full sets of: Pappy Van Winkle, Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, 2024 Prohibition Collection, and E.H. Taylor Jr. lineup
- Double Eagle Very Rare bottle + hand-crafted barrel wood coffee table by Buffalo Trace Whiskey Woodcraft
- Chris & Morgane Stapleton’s “Outlaw State of Kind” items: autographed guitar, merch, and bottle of Traveller Whiskey
- All-expense-paid trip for two to visit a Yellowstone spinoff filming on the 101 Studios set in Fort Worth, TX
2. Sweepstakes Opportunities
- Win the right to purchase one (1) bottle of O.F.C. Vintage 2006
- One entry per $50 donation – no entry cap
- Exclusive PGA package:
- PGA certificate for four to play TPC Sawgrass PLAYERS Stadium Course
- Two Buffalo Trace Bettinardi golf putters
- One entry per $50 donation – no entry cap
How to Participate in Buffalo Trace Pour it Forward for Kentucky
The auction goes live on Thursday, May 22 at 10am EST and closes on Thursday, June 5 at 10am EST.
There are no reserves. Bidding starts at $100 per lot. Winning bidders will be contacted the week of June 9.
Support for Kentucky Recovery – Buffalo Trace Pour it Forward for Kentucky
“We are grateful to Buffalo Trace for their support in times of disaster. Their partnership enables us to give help and hope to hundreds of families who were affected by the deadly tornado in Southern Kentucky and the severe April floods,” said Nadine McCrindle, CEO of the Red Cross Kentucky Region.
“We know from experience that recovery is a long journey… Community partnerships like this are essential to moving forward — together, we are all making Frankfort Strong,” said Jane Higgins, Director of Community Advancement, Blue Grass Community Foundation.
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About the author: Ed Escott is truly "Bourbon Obsessed". He is the founder of Bourbon Obsessed, LLC, and an Executive Bourbon Steward of the Stave and Thief Society. In addition, he has authored and edited over 600 bourbon and other whiskey reviews, over 50 in-depth distillery write-ups, and many other related articles. He is on the board of the Kentucky Bourbon Influencers and a member of the Lexington Bourbon Society and the Bourbon Capital Guild. Last, but not least, Ed has attended many bourbon-related educational sessions, visited countless distilleries, and is on a never-ending quest to try every bourbon.
Prior to focusing solely on Bourbon Obsessed, Ed practiced in academic medicine for three decades. He most recently was a Professor at the University of Kentucky and served as Chief of the Division of Neuroradiology and Vice Chair For Faculty Mentoring, Development & Wellness of the Department of Radiology. He has extensive editorial experience in academic medical publication, and brings that same academic mindset to Bourbon Obsessed, which is a unique approach for a spirit-focused media company.
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