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VIP Barrel Selection Experience
Benefiting The Big Man Foundation
A once-in-a-lifetime selection normally reserved for master distillers and private partners
You’re not bidding on a bottle.
You’re stepping into one of the rarest programs at Buffalo Trace: Single-Barrel, Barrel-Select Bourbon.
A private selection you can’t buy, request, or waitlist for — available only through Sazerac’s allocation program, a closed-door opportunity granted to very, very few.
Two days on site. One signature barrel.
Your name on the story. Your thumbprint on the whiskey.
February 18–19, 2026
Frankfort, KY
6 Seats Available for Auction
Auction Opens: Fri, Dec 12, 2025 @ 12:00 PM ET
Auction Closes: Mon, Dec 22, 2025 @ 8:30 PM ET (soft-close)
Ages 21+ only. Not affiliated with Buffalo Trace Distillery.
inside the experience
What's Included (2 Days):
Wed, Feb 18, 2026:
VIP Welcome
VIP Welcome Gathering (evening): Kick off in Frankfort with introductions, cocktails, and dinner (Dutch treat) at a favorite local spot.
After-Hours Bourbon Salon: A polished, invite-only bottle share hosted by BMF. We’ll stock a few special pours; guests are welcome to bring a favorite bottle to taste and discuss in good company.
*Potential VIP guest: We’re working to host an NFL coach/player at Wednesday’s welcome & after-hour. (Subject to availability.)
Thu, Feb 19, 2026:
VIP Barrel Selection
Private VIP Tour (Noon): Go behind the scenes where the public doesn’t—rickhouses, production touchpoints, and stories from the source.
VIP Barrel Selection (1:30 PM): Guided tasting & vote. Evaluate side-by-side samples with expert guidance, then cast your vote to choose our barrel profile. What makes it singular? You will help choose a single barrel that becomes a co-branded release for BMF—not sold in stores.
Group Photo & Gift Shop (2:15 PM): Commemorate the day and browse an iconic shop for souvenirs.
Times subject to final distillery confirmation; we’ll share any updates with winners.
Bottle Allocation:
Each seat winner receives TWO CASES of the selected bottling.
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Fulfillment will be handled by the distillery or its licensed retail partner in accordance with applicable laws: BMF does not sell or ship alcohol.
What's Not Included:
Travel, lodging, local transportation, and any bottle purchases beyond your allocation.
Other Information:
Location: Frankfort, KY (final itinerary to winners)
Seats: Six total (multi-winner auction)
Transferability: Non-transferable without BMF approval
Eligibility & Conduct: 21+ with valid ID. Please plan safe transportation for all alcohol-related activities. BMF reserves the right to remove any participant for unsafe or disruptive behavior.
Disclaimer: This fundraiser is not affiliated with or endorsed by Buffalo Trace Distillery.
Auction Overview
Opens: Fri, Dec 12, 2025 @ 12:00 PM ET
Closes: Mon, Dec 22, 2025 @ 8:30 PM ET (soft-close)
Format (6 seats): Multi-winner. Highest bidder sets the price and may claim 1–6 seats. Next-highest bidder(s) can purchase remaining seats at their own bid price until all six are sold.
Gifting: After payment, we’ll email a printable gift certificate you can give the recipient—the rarest holiday gift in bourbon.
21+ with valid ID. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Buffalo Trace Distillery. BMF does not sell or ship alcohol.
F.A.Q.'s
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this affiliated with Buffalo Trace?
No. This fundraiser is not affiliated with or endorsed by Buffalo Trace Distillery. The experience is arranged by The Big Man Foundation. Access is through the distillery’s private allocation program.
How do multiple winners work?
Top bidder sets the price and can take 1–6 seats. Remaining seats are offered—by order of bid amount—to the next-highest bidder(s) at their bid price until all six are sold.
How much is the "two case" allocation?
Each seat includes two cases of bourbon from the selected barrel, equivalent to either twelve (12) 750ml bottles or twenty-four (24) 375ml bottles. Final bottle configuration will be determined in coordination with the distillery.
Can I get more than my allocation?
Maybe. Any additional access is at the retailer’s discretion, subject to availability and local laws. Details (if any) will be shared directly with winners.
Is this tax deductible?
Yes — a significant portion of your winning bid may be tax deductible.
Each seat includes two cases of bourbon with an estimated fair market value of approximately $375 per seat. The portion of a winning bid above that amount is treated as a charitable contribution and will be reflected on your donor receipt.
Example: A $5,000 winning bid would result in an estimated $4,625 charitable deduction.
The Big Man Foundation purchases all bottles from Virginia ABC at published MSRP after bottling. That retail price establishes the fair market value of the tangible goods included in this experience.
As with any charitable contribution, we recommend consulting your tax advisor regarding your specific situation.
Is the dinner hosted?
The welcome gathering is hosted; dinner is Dutch treat so you can order what you like. Then join us for the After-Hours Bourbon Salon (curated bottle share) back at the suite.
Can I bring a guest?
Each seat is for one person. If you want to bring someone, bid for two seats. Space is limited.
What if I can’t attend after winning?
Seats are non-transferable without BMF approval. If we can’t reassign your seat, your purchase may be treated as a donation.
Any rules around alcohol?
This page promotes attendance at an experience, not alcohol sales. All participants must be 21+ and comply with local laws.
Other Questions?
thank you!
For Your Time & Consideration
Please reach out directly to our CEO if you have any questions, reservations, or would like to learn more.
We’d also love to hear from you if you’re interested in getting involved in our important mission to support coaches and their families.
Casey Kroll
CEO
📧 casey@bigmanfoundation.org
📞 (540) 604-6173
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The Big Man Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting coaches and their families through hardship, health & wellness, and advocacy. EIN: 85-3352292