The bottles were filled by the last barrel of whisky produced by the distillery in the 20^th century, eleven years ago on December 31 1999.

Each of the bottles has been numbered and packaged in a hardwood box which features a piece of the ‘millennium barrel’s’ charred stave.

Kris Comstock, Buffalo Trace brand manager, said: “This was a special barrel of whiskey and we want to do something with the bottles to help those in need.

“We really hope whiskey enthusiasts and collectors will help some deserving non-profit groups raise serious money. Our goal is to raise $200,000 for charity.”

The bottles will be distributed to charities across the US. To be considered, organisations must submit an official US non-profit tax ID number and auction the bottle within the 2011 calendar year.

Applications will be taken online at www.buffalotacemillennium.com.