Photo Credit: Buffalo TraceBuffalo Trace Distillery has officially announced the return of its highly successful charitable initiative, “100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities,” in honor of Bottled-in-Bond Day 2025. This program, which first launched in 2024, continues to pay homage to Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr., a pioneer in the bourbon industry, while providing critical support to nonprofit organizations across the United States.
A Tribute to Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr.
E.H. Taylor Jr., who owned Buffalo Trace Distillery from 1869 to 1878, is widely credited as the founding father of modern bourbon. His relentless advocacy and innovative practices played a crucial role in the passage of the 1897 Bottled-in-Bond Act, which set the quality standard for American whiskey by requiring a strict 100 proof alcohol measurement. In keeping with this legacy, Buffalo Trace’s initiative reflects Taylor’s enduring commitment to quality, integrity, and community enhancement.
Impact of the Inaugural Year
The first year of 100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities proved to be a resounding success, with the program raising over $134,000 for various nonprofit organizations across 36 states. The beneficiaries included charities focused on veteran support, youth education, cancer treatment, and animal rescue, among others.
Andrew Duncan, Global Brand Director at Buffalo Trace Distillery, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating:
“It is incredible to see the work being done by nonprofit organizations across the country. We believe Colonel Taylor would be proud to know his legacy continues to foster positive change in so many communities. The ‘100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities’ initiative honors those who, like Taylor, strive to improve the world. We are proud to support their missions.”
Details of the 2025 Initiative
For the upcoming year, 100 bourbon sets featuring some of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s most sought-after brands will be distributed to selected nonprofit organizations. These sets will include premium bottles from labels such as E.H. Taylor Jr., Blanton’s, Eagle Rare, and Weller. The number of bottles in each set will vary.
Application and Selection Process
Nonprofits interested in participating must submit applications within the 100-day window, with a final deadline of June 11, 2025. Selected organizations will be announced during the week of July 28, 2025, and the bourbon sets will be delivered within 30 days following the announcement.
Buffalo Trace Distillery will manage all transportation logistics while adhering to individual state regulations. Upon receiving the sets, nonprofit organizations will be responsible for implementing fundraising programs that comply with their respective state’s legal requirements. Additionally, all participating charities must report the funds raised by December 31, 2025.
The Bottled-in-Bond Legacy
The Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897 was a landmark piece of legislation that revolutionized the American whiskey industry by ensuring quality and consumer safety. Its influence extended beyond whiskey, ultimately shaping modern food and drug regulations in the United States.
Through the 100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities initiative, Buffalo Trace Distillery continues to uphold this historic legacy while making a tangible difference in communities nationwide.
