Update: The auction raised $12,000, and 100% of the proceeds will go to the Grand Teton National Park Foundation to support grizzly bear conservation, research, and education.
In just under 36 hours, the Queen of the Tetons release sold out. Do you want a chance to support Grand Teton National Park Foundation, you don’t miss this auction.
KIRBY, Wyo. (April 18, 2025) –– Wyoming Whiskey proudly introduces a BlockBar-hosted auction of Bottle No. 399 of Queen of the Tetons, a limited-edition bourbon dedicated to the legendary Grizzly 399, tragically killed near Grand Teton National Park on October 22, 2024. All proceeds from this auction will benefit the Grand Teton National Park Foundation. The auction runs April 22–29, 2025, on BlockBar.com, starting at $300.
Honoring Grizzly 399’s Legacy
“Grizzly 399’s death captured global attention late last year, marking a devastating loss for wildlife enthusiasts and Wyoming locals,” the press release notes. The 28-year-old bear, a symbol of the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, inspired Queen of the Tetons, which sold out 720 bottles in 36 hours in December 2024. Wyoming Whiskey donated $20,000 to the Grand Teton National Park Foundation for bear conservation.
The auction lot includes:
- Queen of the Tetons Bottle No. 399, featuring Thomas D. Mangelsen’s Grizzly 399 photo.
- A sample bottle of Queen of the Tetons.
- A 17″x30″ framed, signed print of Mangelsen’s “Spring’s Surprise,” capturing Grizzly 399 with four cubs in 2020.
“Thomas D. Mangelsen’s photo ‘Spring’s Surprise’ captures the famous grizzly 399 emerging from hibernation in 2020 with four cubs—an extremely rare event,” the release states, noting its symbolism of renewal.
Tasting Notes: Rich and Vibrant
- Nose: Honey, ripe field berries, cinnamon spice
- Palate: White chocolate mocha, red fruit, brown sugar
- Finish: Candied ginger, soft vanilla
Supporting Conservation
“Supporting conservation efforts has long been central to Wyoming Whiskey’s mission, and this initiative furthers its commitment to preserving wide-open spaces in the wake of this profound loss,” the release emphasizes.
About Wyoming Whiskey
Based in Kirby, Wyoming Whiskey crafts America’s next great whiskeys using local grains and Bighorn Basin water. Visit wyomingwhiskey.com.
About Thomas Mangelsen
“Thomas D. Mangelsen is a renowned American wildlife photographer and conservationist best known for his image Catch of the Day,” the release states, highlighting his work supporting Yellowstone’s grizzlies.
About BlockBar
“BlockBar enables the wine and spirits community to buy, store, sell, gift, and ship the highest quality wines and spirits, sourced directly from producers and authenticated via blockchain,” per the release.
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