Sips & Sites & Bites

Buffalo Trace is opening the vaults for a good cause, and bourbon fans everywhere may want to take notice. Through Sazerac Barrel Select (SBS), the distillery has launched the Elmer T. Lee Charity Sweepstakes … a fundraiser benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital that combines rare whiskey with a once-in-a-lifetime bourbon experience.

The prize at stake? A private single barrel selection of the coveted Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon, a whiskey that hasn’t been offered in a decade. Named after the man often credited as the “father of single barrel bourbon,” Elmer T. Lee is the mind behind both Blanton’s and the original SBS program. For enthusiasts, this sweepstakes is more than a chance at a rare bottle, it’s a chance to step into bourbon history.

Each $100 donation equals one entry into the drawing, with proceeds (minus required transaction fees) going directly to St. Jude. The sweepstakes opens September 8, 2025, and runs through September 30.

The lucky winner will be treated to a bucket-list experience:

• A night’s stay at Buffalo Trace’s Stagg Lodge for the winner and up to seven guests
• A behind-the-scenes distillery tour and private lunch
• A barrel-thieving, tasting, and selection session with Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley, who was personally mentored by Elmer T. Lee
• An $18,000 cash prize, which can be used toward purchasing bottles from the chosen barrel, complete with personalized medallions

Harlen Wheatley reflected on the sweepstakes with admiration for his mentor. “It was a privilege to work with Elmer… I’m honored to continue sharing his legacy through this program.”

This isn’t the first time SBS has put bourbon toward a good cause. Last year’s Blanton’s Gold Charity Sweepstakes raised more than $1 million for St. Jude, and in total, the program has helped raise more than $4 million for various charities.

For bourbon lovers, the Elmer T. Lee sweepstakes is a chance to enjoy an extraordinary pour while supporting an extraordinary mission. Full details and registration are available at www.SazeracBarrelSelect.com/charity