FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky’s second online auction of confiscated bourbon raised $21,117 for alcohol education programs, with an E.H. Taylor four-bottle collection drawing the highest bid at $8,001.
The Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control sold 59 bottles in the auction, which featured bourbon confiscated during closed criminal investigations conducted by the agency.
The top-selling collection included E.H. Taylor Small Batch, Single Barrel, Barrel Proof and Sour Mash bourbons.
“We are thrilled with the response to this year’s auction and grateful to everyone who participated,” said ABC Commissioner Scotty Tracy. “Turning confiscated bourbon into more than $21,000 for alcohol education is a win for Kentucky youth.”
A 2024 change in state law allowed the department to sell confiscated alcoholic beverages through public auctions. Previously, the items had to be destroyed.
Proceeds support the Alcohol Wellness and Responsibility Education, or AWARE, board, which provides grants to Kentucky high schools, colleges and universities for alcohol responsibility programs.
Kentucky high schools can apply for funding for Project Graduation, which provides drug- and alcohol-free celebrations with activities and entertainment for seniors immediately after commencement. The Project Graduation application is open through Feb. 28, 2027.
