For the first time in a decade, bourbon fans have the chance to select a private Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel – a rare opportunity offered through Sazerac Barrel Select, with proceeds supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Buffalo Trace tells BourbonBlog.com that the Sazerac Barrel Select (SBS) is opening its doors to bourbon fans with a once-in-a-decade opportunity: the Elmer T. Lee Charity Sweepstakes, benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
For every $100 donation, entrants gain a shot at an unforgettable prize: Selecting a private barrel of Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon, an honor usually reserved for SBS members.*
“The last single barrel of Elmer T. Lee was chosen 10 years ago, and fans have been asking ever since,” said Diego Bianchi, SBS General Manager. “We’re proud to bring this opportunity back—and even prouder it benefits St. Jude.”
Keep reading to learn how to enter. For more bourbon news like this — including opportunities to get involved in other bourbon releases that support charity — subscribe to our Bourbon newsletter here.
A VIP Experience at Buffalo Trace
The winner will be hosted at Buffalo Trace Distillery’s Stagg Lodge for an overnight stay, a private tour, and a catered lunch for up to eight guests. The highlight: a hands-on barrel selection alongside Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley, who was trained by Elmer himself in 1995.
In addition to the barrel, the winner receives an $18,000 cash prize to purchase bottles from their chosen barrel, each finished with custom medallions.
“I was fortunate to spend time with Elmer, listening to his stories and learning his craft,” Wheatley tells BourbonBlog.com. “It’s an honor to continue his legacy through this program.”
Honoring Elmer T. Lee’s Legacy
Elmer T. Lee, often hailed as the “father of single barrel bourbon,” forever changed whiskey when he introduced Blanton’s in 1984. Two years later, Buffalo Trace honored him with his namesake release—Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey.
Known for its balanced character, the Elmer T. lee remains one of the most sought-after single barrels in the world.
The Elmer T. Lee Charity Sweepstakes opens September 8, 2025, and closes September 30, 2025, with the winner announced the week of October 6, 2025. Full details and registration are available at SazeracBarrelSelect.com/drawing.
*Each $100 donation directly benefits St. Jude and counts as one entry into the sweepstakes. While donations are encouraged, no purchase or donation is required to enter. For details on alternate free entry methods, please see the Official Rules at SazeracBarrelSelect.com/drawing.
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