Louisville, Ky. – The Kentucky Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) announced its second online auction of bourbon seized from illegal sales and other violations. Seventy bottles, many of them highly collectible, will be offered to the public, with every dollar directed to state‑wide alcohol‑responsibility programs.
Proceeds benefit students and campuses
Governor Andy Beshear praised the effort, saying, “By repurposing these funds, we’re helping Kentucky high school graduates celebrate legally and responsibly in an alcohol‑free environment and providing alcohol education at eleven Kentucky college campuses.” The money will fund programs that teach responsible drinking habits, support sober‑celebration events for graduates, and expand curriculum on college campuses.
What’s up for bid
The auction features a range of prized bourbon, including:
- Five bottles of Old Rip Van Winkle 10‑Year
- An eight‑bottle set of Blanton’s Single Barrel, each bearing a different letter
- A four‑bottle set of E.H. Taylor (Small Batch, Sour Mash, Barrel Proof, Single Barrel)
- A four‑bottle set of Weller (Special Reserve, 107 Antique, Single Barrel, 12‑Year)
- One bottle of Rock Hill Farms Single Barrel
- One bottle of Michter’s 10‑Year Single Barrel
ABC Commissioner Scotty Tracy added, “We have some unique bottles of bourbon in our sale this year, and we are excited to offer these to Kentucky bourbon enthusiasts.”
Auction details
The online auction opens on Tuesday, September 15, and closes at midnight on Wednesday, September 30. Bidders must wait until the opening date to place offers. Winners will not receive shipping; instead, they must collect their bottles in person during Frankfort’s annual “Bourbon on the Banks” festival, scheduled for October 2‑5.
Why the auction matters
Confiscated alcohol often sits in storage, generating no public benefit. By turning these assets into a fundraising tool, Kentucky ABC not only removes illegal product from circulation but also creates a revenue stream for education that aligns with the state’s commitment to family values and personal responsibility. The initiative reflects a broader trend of leveraging state resources to support community‑focused programs without raising taxes.
How to participate
Interested buyers can view the catalog and register for the auction through the official Kentucky ABC website. While the auction is online, participants should be prepared to travel to Frankfort for pickup, ensuring the bottles remain within the state and are enjoyed responsibly.
For more information, visit the Kentucky ABC auction page or contact the ABC office directly.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
