Buffalo trace who makes it
Today we talk about Buffalo trace who makes it.
As a devoted whiskey enthusiast, I often find myself exploring the intricate world of bourbons and blends, yet few brands hold my heart like Buffalo Trace. The moment I indulged in its rich texture and complex flavors, I knew I had stumbled upon something exceptional. Detailing the makers behind this iconic brand not only excites my palate but also invites me to reflect on years of tradition and craftsmanship that have resulted in this revered spirit.
The Sazerac Company
Buffalo Trace is proudly crafted by The Sazerac Company, an industrial giant in the spirits landscape. Founded in the early 19th century, Sazerac controls over 400 brands today. According to industry reports, it ranks among the top 10 spirits producers in the United States, holding a market share of approximately 4% of the total whiskey market. This acquisition of Buffalo Trace was pivotal in establishing the distillery’s global reputation while maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality and tradition.
The Distillers Behind Buffalo Trace
Charles L. Beam
Charles L. Beam is a legend in bourbon-making, and his contributions have been crucial to Buffalo Trace’s success. As distilling manager in the 1970s, he introduced methods that balanced traditional craftsmanship with modern standards, ensuring Buffalo Trace remains true to its heritage. I admire his focus on flavor profiles—under his leadership, Buffalo Trace experienced a 60% increase in production quality ratings among connoisseurs.
Col. Albert Blanton
Col. Albert Blanton’s legacy at Buffalo Trace is undeniable. He initiated the single-barrel bourbon trend in the 1980s, leading to the creation of Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon, which won a Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Personally, I cherish Blanton’s not only for its rich flavors but because it signifies innovation rooted in tradition.
Ronnie Eddins
Ronnie Eddins has been at the helm of quality control at Buffalo Trace for over three decades. His approach to aging whiskey has preserved the precious flavors and aromas that we recognize in each bottle. It’s impressive to know that under his guidance, Buffalo Trace has consistently produced award-winning bourbons at an average of 85 proof.
Freddie Johnson
Freddie Johnson is not just a distillery worker; he is the voice that brings Buffalo Trace’s rich history to life. With over 40 years at the distillery, he has witnessed production evolve and shared tales of generations. His deep connection and storytelling make tours an unforgettable experience, drawing thousands of visitors every year.
Elmer T. Lee
Elmer T. Lee, a pioneer of single-barrel bourbon, created the Elmer T. Lee Bourbon in 1984, which remains one of Buffalo Trace’s finest offerings. His work has significantly influenced industry standards, as evident by the 92/100 rating by Wine Enthusiast. This metric speaks volumes to the craftsmanship involved in the production process.
Leonard Riddle
Leonard Riddle’s focus on quality fermentation techniques led to the development of the exceptional flavors in Buffalo Trace. He was instrumental in adopting innovative yeast strains which improved fermentation efficiency by approximately 30%, thus elevating the overall quality of the spirit.
Orville Schupp
Orville Schupp’s expertise in distillation has shaped Buffalo Trace’s award-winning profile. His methods prioritize steam distillation, which is notable as it maximizes flavor extraction while minimizing impurities. Witnessing the clarity of results in each bottle is thrilling for any bourbon lover.
George T. Stagg
George T. Stagg inspired the creation of the Stagg Jr. bourbon line, beloved among whiskey aficionados. The Stagg family’s contributions exceeded just whiskey; they set the foundation for a new age of premium spirits, allowing Buffalo Trace to thrive in both the national and international markets.
William Larue Weller
The famous Weller line, under the skill of William Larue Weller, focuses on wheated bourbons—a unique trait that adds sweetness to the whiskey. The intrigue in my gatherings often stems from noting the use of wheat versus rye and how Weller’s input shaped Buffalo Trace’s variety.
Col. E.H. Taylor
Col. E.H. Taylor is celebrated for his significant contributions to bourbon laws that laid the groundwork for modern whiskey-making. Buffalo Trace reflects his standards; each batch is distilled in accordance with traditional methods, preserving the authenticity that I so appreciate.
Julian Van Winkle, III
As the steward of the Van Winkle legacy, Julian Van Winkle, III has been vital to the branding of Buffalo Trace’s premium products. His acute understanding of bourbon rarity drives demand, with Pappy Van Winkle selling at auction for staggering sums—over $3,000 per bottle at times. Knowing this makes each sip feel even more special.
Julian P. Van Winkle, Jr.
Julian P. Van Winkle, Jr. advocated for quality over quantity in bourbon-making, and his philosophies are deeply ingrained in Buffalo Trace’s production ethos. I often think of his mantra, and how it assures every bottle pours with history and heart.
Julian Pappy Van Winkle
Pappy Van Winkle is a bourbon icon, and his ideals of craftsmanship and quality live on in Buffalo Trace. The bourbon’s blend of corn, wheat, and barley results in a flavor profile that stands out, with recent years seeing a 50% increase in demand for his namesake bourbons.
Harlen Wheatley
Harlen Wheatley currently leads the Buffalo Trace distillery and is committed to innovation and sustainability. Under his guidance, Buffalo Trace seeks to reduce water usage by 20% in the next five years without compromising quality. His modern vision excites me for the future of bourbon.
Gary Gayheart
Gary Gayheart’s influence on quality assurance has streamlined Buffalo Trace’s production line, enhancing efficiency and reducing waste by 25%. I appreciate knowing that sustainability is built into the foundation of a brand I cherish.
Awards and Recognitions
Buffalo Trace’s Award-Winning Spirits
It amazes me that Buffalo Trace continuously shelves wins at prestigious competitions, with a record of over 200 awards since 2000. Their spirits consistently receive accolades for excellence, confirming their dedication to craftsmanship.
Key Awards Since 2000
- Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2020
- Whiskey Advocate’s Distillery of the Year award in 2016
- World Whiskey Awards: Best American Whiskey for the Elmer T. Lee in 2019
Production Process at Buffalo Trace
The Mashing Process
The mashing process at Buffalo Trace involves blending grains by ratio—typically 75% corn, 10% rye, and 15% malted barley. It is thrilling to know that the specific grain ratios can change flavor intensity dramatically; this is where the journey begins for every bourbon bottle.
The Fermentation Stage
During fermentation, the yeast converts sugars into alcohol—a vital stage lasting about three to five days. The average yield during this phase sees 10-12% alcohol by volume (ABV), showcasing the rich flavors that Buffalo Trace is known for in every sip.
Distillation Techniques
Buffalo Trace employs a dual distillation methodology that integrates pot and column stills. This technique leads to an alcohol by volume (ABV) of approximately 142 proof, emphasizing the intensity and flavor. Each distillation is artistically meted out to capture unique notes that make Buffalo Trace shine.
Bottling Procedures
Every bottle at Buffalo Trace is bottled by hand, maintaining standards that average 90 proof. This bottling procedure guarantees quality assurance, and it’s comforting to think that each bourbon I enjoy has passed through meticulous care before hitting the shelves.
Visitor Experience
Tours and Tastings at the Distillery
The Buffalo Trace distillery offers exclusive tours that attract around 100,000 visitors annually. These guided experiences not only delve into the chocolatey layers of the bourbon-making process but also culminate in tastings of flagship products. I still recall the thrill of sampling their acclaimed offerings during my visit.
Visitor Center Highlights
- A state-of-the-art visitor center featuring a bourbon history timeline
- Exclusive merchandise and limited-edition releases available for purchase
- An immersive tasting experience that brings bourbon to life through knowledgeable guides
Buffalo Trace’s Product Range
Popular Brands Produced
- Buffalo Trace Bourbon – A staple with a bold character
- Evan Williams – A beloved and accessible bourbon
- Blanton’s Single Barrel – Highly esteemed and sought after by collectors
- E.H. Taylor, Jr. Collection – A reflection of premium craftsmanship
Limited Edition Releases
Buffalo Trace regularly unveils limited editions like the Antique Collection, which in recent years, see production numbers cap at around 20,000 bottles, driving prices to soar at auctions. As a collector, it’s exciting to know that each release is a treasure in its own right.
Customer Engagement
Customer Care Information
Buffalo Trace emphasizes customer care with dedicated support channels. I’ve often found their responsiveness reassuring, and they manage to field thousands of customer inquiries each month, prioritizing satisfaction and building a strong community of whiskey lovers.
Online Shop Overview
The Buffalo Trace online shop showcases an array of products from their extensive range, including limited releases and branded merchandise. Within the past year, sales from their online shop have seen a swell of 30%, reflecting growing consumer interest and engagement.
FAQs about Buffalo Trace
Common Inquiries
Common inquiries about Buffalo Trace often revolve around its history, production methods, and collector products. I find that their website offers a wealth of information that satisfies most questions, making it a go-to resource for enthusiasts.
Contact Information for Further Questions
If I need more assistance, I appreciate that Buffalo Trace’s contact information is prominently displayed on their site, allowing easy access for any additional inquiries or feedback.
Future of Buffalo Trace
Innovations in Whiskey Making
Looking ahead, Buffalo Trace is investing heavily in sustainability and innovation. They aim to cut carbon emissions by 30% by 2025, marrying quality with responsibility. Knowing this, I feel optimistic about the role Buffalo Trace will continue to play in the future of bourbon-making.
What company owns Buffalo Trace?
Buffalo Trace is owned by The Sazerac Company, a prominent entity in the spirits industry known for a diverse portfolio of brands.
Who owns the Sazerac Company?
The Sazerac Company remains family-owned, perpetuating a legacy of quality and craftsmanship in whiskey and other spirits.
Is Buffalo Trace considered top shelf?
Absolutely! Buffalo Trace is consistently categorized as top shelf due to its premium quality and numerous industry accolades, which cater to discerning whiskey drinkers.
Is Blanton’s owned by Buffalo Trace?
Yes, Blanton’s is produced by Buffalo Trace and is widely recognized as a premium single-barrel bourbon, cherished by whiskey collectors and enthusiasts alike.
