Pennsylvania Whiskey Enthusiasts, Rejoice: Three Lottery Drawings Offer a Chance to Own Rare Bottles
The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) is launching three separate lotteries, giving Pennsylvania residents the chance to win highly sought-after rare whiskey bottles. This initiative, aimed at increasing engagement and offering access to premium spirits, is generating considerable buzz within the spirits community. The lotteries feature bottles from iconic brands including Pappy Van Winkle, Buffalo Trace, and E.H. Taylor.
Lottery Details & Entry Process
The three lotteries will run concurrently, offering a total of approximately 1,062 bottles. Each lottery features a distinct brand and selection of aged expressions. Participants can enter each lottery individually or opt-in to all three for an increased probability of winning. Entry is open until January 16th, with drawings scheduled throughout the entry period. Only one entry per household is permitted for each individual lottery.
Buffalo Trace Lottery: A Collector’s Dream
The first lottery focuses on Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection, offering 324 rare bottles. The selection includes several highly coveted expressions, such as Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey 18 Year Old ($1,500+ retail), George T. Stagg Straight Bourbon Barrel Proof ($800+ retail), and William Larue Weller Straight Bourbon Barrel Proof (over $1,000+ retail). Additional offerings include Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey Barrel Proof and Eagle Rare Straight Bourbon 17 Year Old. These bottles represent a significant investment for collectors, and the lottery offers a considerably more accessible entry point.
Pappy Van Winkle Lottery: Unprecedented Value
The second lottery is dedicated to Pappy Van Winkle, offering 1,062 bottles from the brand. This is a particularly significant opportunity, as winning bottles can be purchased at a substantially reduced price compared to retail valuations – ranging from $130 to $320. The centerpiece is the Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Straight Bourbon 23 Year Old ($4,000+ retail), representing a remarkable value proposition for entrants.
E.H. Taylor Lottery: Bottled in Bond Classic
The third lottery presents a curated selection of E.H. Taylor’s Straight Bourbon Limited Edition Bottled in Bond. A single lottery offering 150 bottles available for $150, highlighting the brand’s legacy and the allure of this distinct release.
What This Means for Consumers
This lottery represents a rare chance for consumers to acquire high-end whiskey at considerably lower prices than retail, particularly for sought-after releases like Pappy Van Winkle. It also creates a sense of excitement and engagement within the Pennsylvania spirits market. The PLCB’s efforts highlight the growing demand for premium spirits and a desire among consumers to participate in exclusive experiences.
Pros and Cons
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Pros:
Access to rare and highly desirable bottles at a reduced cost, increased opportunity for spirits enthusiasts, and a unique lottery experience.
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Cons:
Low odds of winning, requires careful monitoring of the entry period, and the lottery format may not appeal to all consumers.
Important Dates:
* January 16th: Entry period for the lotteries closes.
