New York, N.Y. and Lexington, KY (Nov. 20, 2024) – The incredibly rare opportunity to own bourbon bottles signed by Pope Francis is being orchestrated by Fr. Jim Sichko. Widely known and respected for random acts of generosity and kindness, Fr. Jim is partnering with Sotheby’s New York to auction two limited-release Willett Distillery bottles that he had signed by Pope Francis in May 2024. A third rare bottle of Willett will be auctioned – this one was signed by former professional football quarterback Tom Brady. The money raised from the sale of the one-of-a-kind bottles will go to four nonprofits, one of which is in Texas and the remaining three are in Kentucky.
The extraordinary Willett Distillery Bottles will be in the Sotheby’s New York Whisky & Whiskey auction Dec. 7. Bidding is available online today, Nov. 20, and culminates with a live sale Saturday, Dec. 7 at noon EST.
The bottles signed by Pope Francis commemorate 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. Tom Brady signed number 12, which was his jersey number.
“It is incredibly rare to obtain a signature from the Holy Father. To my knowledge, this is the first time he has signed bourbon bottles,” Fr. Jim Sichko adds. “The addition of Pope Francis’ autograph on two rare bottles of Kentucky Brown Water – and one bottle signed by football icon Tom Brady – creates a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to raise money to support four deserving charities. Sotheby’s generosity in managing the auction will increase the incredible impact we can create.” As a Papal Missionary of Mercy and Diocesan Evangelist, Fr. Jim brings bourbon to Pope Francis when he visits. A gift of Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon to Pope Francis eight years ago received national attention.
Zev Glesta, Sotheby’s Whiskey Specialist, commented, “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.”
Proceeds from the sale will benefit Southeast Texas Hospice in Orange, TX; Fr. Jim is a Texas native. Living in Lexington, KY for 27 years, Fr. Jim chose to support three nonprofits in the city – Maxwell Street Legal Immigration Clinic, Diocese of Lexington – Preaching/Giving Ministry of Fr. Jim Sichko, and PAWs 4 the Cause.
Additionally, 15 non-signed bottles of the 2025 Jubilee Year, “Pilgrims of Hope,” will be available in Central Kentucky at Ernie’s Spirits in Lexington (five bottles) and Jillian’s Bourbon & Bling in Richmond (10 bottles). The stores will set the bottle prices with earnings going to the stores, not to charity.
About Father Jim Sichko – Based in Lexington, Ky., Fr. Jim Sichko is a missionary for Pope Francis and travels the world doing various random acts of kindness. In February 2016, Pope Francis commissioned Fr. Jim as one of his Papal Missionaries of Mercy, of which there are only 1000 in the world and 100 in the United States. A popular author and speaker, Fr. Jim makes headlines for random acts of generosity and kindness including giving away thousands of dollars to people at grocery stores, on the streets and especially to those most in need. To learn more about Fr. Jim or reach out to him, please visit https://www.frjims.com
