Kentucky Bourbon Benefits Top $1 Million 

For Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief

FRANKFORT, Ky. – With two days left to go, the Kentucky Bourbon Benefit online auction of rare and vintage bottles, exclusive private barrel selections and unique tourism and tasting offerings today topped its initial goal of $1 million.

“The tremendous outpouring of support from Bourbon distilleries, fans and enthusiasts is a humbling example of how our signature industry gives back to fellow Kentuckians and local communities,” said Eric Gregory, president of the non-profit Kentucky Distillers’ Association.

“These funds will go a long way in helping our neighbors in Eastern Kentucky rebuild their lives, homes and businesses,” he said. “With more than 500 lots, including several ‘Buy It Now’ bottles, there’s something for every budget. We hope everyone digs deep and bids often.”

The 10-day online auction runs until 11 p.m. EST on Sunday, Aug. 21.

Go to www.kybourbonbenefit.com to view auction items and bid.

The auction is sponsored and coordinated by the KDA, the Bourbon Crusaders charitable organization and Bourbon curator Fred Minnick. Westport Whiskey & Wine in Louisville is coordinating collection and distribution of donated items.

All proceeds will go directly to the state’s official Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund to assist those impacted by flooding. The website to learn more or make a donation is https://secure.kentucky.gov/FormServices/Finance/EKYFloodRelief.

“It’s thrilling to be a part of the Bourbon community that comes together to help the folks in Eastern Kentucky,” said Brian Haara with the Bourbon Crusaders. “We’re humbled by the support that donors and bidders have shown for the Kentucky Bourbon Benefit and are excited that we have raised over $1 million for flood relief.”

Minnick highlighted how integral the Bourbon industry is to both the Commonwealth’s storied history and current vibrancy.

“Born from the toil and grit of Kentuckians, Bourbon is run by people who deeply care about its home state. And its fans, ranging all over the world, look at Kentucky as the homeland for America’s Spirit. So, when disaster strikes here, distillers, collectors and fans unite to help,” Minnick said.

“This $1 million raised for Eastern Kentucky flood victims is a testament to their unyielding belief in our great Commonwealth, its people and the desire to help our neighbors rebuild. But we all know there’s more work to be done, and the Bourbon community will be here for it.”

Kentucky distillers also are sending tanker trucks and totes of fresh, potable water to Eastern Kentucky, along with contributing thousands of dollars to organizations and relief funds involved in the cleanup and recovery efforts.

Chris Zaborowski, owner of Westport Whiskey & Wine, said the auction demonstrates the entire industry’s commitment to the people of the Commonwealth.

“One million dollars in one week is  great! It is my hope that we can double it in the remaining hours as everyone scrambles to ensure their bid wins,” Zaborowski said. “The Bourbon community has the opportunity to show, once again, how proud we are all to be Kentuckians, and that helping our Eastern Kentucky neighbors exemplifies that when we stand united, no one falls.”

Gregory, of the KDA, said it’s an honor and obligation to step up and help fellow Kentuckians in times of need and assistance.

“Kentucky Bourbon’s roots run through the bedrock of both of our state’s agricultural and industrial sectors, and we proudly maintain more than 22,500 jobs, attract 1.5 million tourism visits annually and bring economic vibrancy to communities and cities across the state,” Gregory said.

“As a signature industry deeply intertwined in our state, it is important and entirely fitting that we give back. Thank you to everyone who is helping in the recovery and rebuilding efforts, and please continue praying for our beloved Commonwealth and its people.”

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association 

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the historic voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces 90% of the world’s Bourbon, from legendary, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s timeless craft and treasured economic engine. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. The KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com. 

KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL CRAFT TOUR®, KENTUCKY BOURBON AFFAIR™, KBT™, and BOURBON TRAIL™ are trademarks/service marks of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. Please savor our Bourbon and distilled spirits like a true Kentuckian – Responsibly.

About the Bourbon Crusaders

The Bourbon Crusaders are focused on leveraging our collective passion for Bourbon for a range of charitable purposes. Our 30 members represent a vast array of backgrounds, geographical locations, skills and relationships in the whiskey universe. Working together, alongside the generosity of our industry partners, we are honored to have our name associated with some of the most successful and memorable Kentucky charity events in recent history. 

Thanks to our annual distillery partners, the greater Bourbon industry, philanthropic individuals, and the amazing attendees of our events, since 2016 we have raised almost $4,500,000 for a variety of charities. Each of our lead partners trusted this small group in the name of doing good, and we are eternally grateful for those opportunities. Thanks to these special people for sharing our vision, we are able to continue raising money for those in need well into the future.

About Fred Minnick

Minnick continuously revives the age-old traditions and cultures of Bourbon and spirits through his media empire which includes the Bourbon Pursuit Podcast, DASH Radio’s “Minnick Minute” show and his Hermes Creative Awards Platinum-winning Podcast The Fred Minnick Show (PodcastOne), which features interviews with musicians, athletes and other celebrities including Peyton Manning, Ludacris, Lindsay Ell, Terry Bradshaw, Ashley McBryde and more. Minnick, a Louisville, KY-based father of two, is also an avid music fan, curating his annual Bourbon and Beyond festival which has welcomed acts like Lynn Kravitz, John Mayer and Stevie Nicks to its stages. He has authored several books including Wall Street Journal best-seller Bourbon Curious.

About Westport Whiskey & Wine

Officially opened on June 12, 2008, in Westport Village, Westport Whiskey & Wine is the ultimate local choice for hard-to-find wines, the finest whiskies, the best selection of tequila, and an excellent collection of craft and imported beers. This retail experience is one that allows you to taste and learn through many tastings with winemakers, master distillers and fellow enthusiasts because it has both a bar and a retail package license. With an inventory of more than 1,400 wines and a premium selection of spirits, the focus is on helping customers explore and appreciate wines and spirits from around the world at many different price points.