Champions Dinner Reveals Rare Whiskey Selection at Augusta National

AUGUSTA, Ga. — The 2025 Champions Dinner at Augusta National Golf Club showcased exclusive moments Tuesday evening, bringing together more than 30 esteemed green-jacket winners. This revered gathering, known for celebrating golf legends over a lavish meal, offered a glimpse into its festivities through a short social media video.

The brief footage displayed the meticulous preparations, including club staffers ironing tablecloths and chefs in Augusta National-branded jackets expertly plating the evening’s dishes. The host for the night, the defending champion, was caught savoring a bite-sized burger.

Among the highlights was the rare Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye whiskey. Whiskey enthusiasts recognize Van Winkle as a legendary name in the spirits world, and its inclusion at the Champions Dinner raised eyebrows. “The Van Winkle line is one of the most respected names out there and most difficult to find,” said Tom Fischer, a whiskey journalist and educator, in an interview with GOLF.com.

Fischer explained the distinction between rye and bourbon, noting, “A whiskey needs at least 51% rye in the mashbill to be designated as rye, while bourbon requires at least 51% corn.” He praised the Van Winkle Family Reserve for its complexity, suggesting flavors of leather, clove, light floral hints, oak, old library notes, and sweet tobacco.

When asked about the rarity of the rye served during the evening, Fischer replied, “A bit surprised because it’s the rarest of the Van Winkles.” He acknowledged that the distillery does not disclose production numbers, but the rye is widely considered the most elusive bottle in the lineup.

Typically retailing for $120 a bottle, Fischer noted that acquiring this whiskey could be challenging in today’s market. “Good luck finding it for that,” he said, indicating that collectors might pay between $1,000 to $1,500 or more on the secondary market. “Insane prices, but it is where we are at in whiskey.”

For those seeking more easily accessible options, Fischer recommended alternatives such as [insert options], both hailing from Indiana and noted for their quality.