Two Rare Willett Distillery Bottles Signed by Pope Francis

To Headline Sotheby’s “Whisky & Whiskey” Auction This December

Live Auction in New York 7 December

“Bringing these exceptional Willett Distillery bottles to market is a privilege and a unique moment in collecting. Each bottle embodies a blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and spirituality that transcends the typical collector’s item, making them especially meaningful additions for those who value both the artistry of fine spirits and the spirit of giving.”

Zev Glesta, Sotheby’s Whiskey Specialist

NEW YORK, 20 NOVEMBER 2024 – A rare opportunity awaits collectors and enthusiasts as Sotheby’s New York brings an extraordinary duo of Willett Distillery bourbon bottles signed by Pope Francis to its upcoming Whisky & Whiskey auction on 7 December. Each bottle, estimated between $1,000 – $10,000, commemorates significant milestones in the Catholic Church, offering collectors a rare chance to acquire items that hold important historical and spiritual significance. 

The first bottle, marking the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’ election as the 266th Pope, displays the papal Coat of Arms. This 10-year-aged bourbon, distilled from Willett’s original recipe with a proof of 132.6, was produced in an extremely limited run of 149 bottles and is signed by Pope Francis. 

The second bottle celebrates the upcoming 2025 Jubilee Year, “Pilgrims of Hope,” and features the Official Jubilee sticker. Aged 10 years and bottled at 144.2 proof, this special edition is rarer still, with only 59 bottles made, and bottle number one is signed by Pope Francis. 

Proceeds from the sale will benefit Southeast Texas Hospice in Orange, TX; Maxwell Street Legal Immigration Clinic in Lexington, KY; Diocese of Lexington – Preaching/Giving Ministry of Fr. Jim Sichko; and PAWs 4 the Cause in Lexington, KY, extending the charitable spirit behind these one-of-a-kind bottles.

Fr. Jim Sichko, Diocesan Evangelist and Papal Missionary of Mercy, commented: “We’re honored to bring these unique bottles to auction, not only for their rarity but for the good they’ll do. Each bottle marks an important moment in the church’s history, and we hope collectors will appreciate them as symbols of tradition and generosity, supporting causes that reflect Pope Francis’ values of compassion.”

About Sotheby’s

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.

Sotheby’s Wine’s annual worldwide auction sales of wine and spirits achieved a record total of $159 million in 2023, surpassing the previous record total of $158 million in 2022. Sotheby’s currently holds the world records for any whisky collection ever sold at auction, any private collection of wine ever sold at auction, the most valuable bottle of wine ever sold at auction and the most valuable bottle of spirits ever sold at auction, in addition to the highest total ever achieved for a charity wine auction (Hospices de Beaune).

 *Estimates do not include buyer’s premium. Prices achieved include the hammer price plus buyer’s premium and are net of any fees paid to the purchaser where the purchaser provided an irrevocable bid.

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