Buffalo trace distilley location
Today we talk about Buffalo trace distilley location.
When I first learned about Buffalo Trace Distillery, excitement and anticipation filled the air. This renowned bourbon distillery located in Frankfort, Kentucky, has produced some of the highest-rated bourbons in the industry, including their flagship Buffalo Trace Bourbon, which has won several awards since its establishment in 1787. My journey to this iconic location was a chance to dive into bourbon culture, craftsmanship, and history.
Buffalo Trace Distillery Location
The Buffalo Trace Distillery is located at 113 Great Buffalo Trace, Frankfort, Kentucky, sitting on an expansive 130-acre property. The distillery’s location, strategically placed along the Kentucky River, offers access to natural resources crucial for bourbon production—a unique point emphasized by the distillery’s rich heritage and sustainability practices.
Finding Buffalo Trace Distillery
Finding Buffalo Trace was a thrilling part of my trip. Located just 35 miles from Lexington, the distillery is well-marked and accessible through various travel routes. I was especially drawn to the area’s rolling hills that are characteristic of the Bluegrass region, as these scenic farms and historic homes add to the appeal of visiting this iconic bourbon distillery.
Location & Hours
Visiting Hours and Accessibility
Buffalo Trace is open for tours and tastings daily, typically from 9 AM to 5 PM. It’s essential to check their website for up-to-date hours, especially during holidays or special events. Moreover, their commitment to accessibility means people of all abilities can fully enjoy the distillery experience, with wheelchairs and accessible restrooms provided throughout the facility.
Navigation
Directions to Buffalo Trace Distillery
To reach Buffalo Trace, I found directions easy to follow. From Interstate 64, taking Exit 58 leads directly to the distillery, with GPS navigating the well-defined roads. Visitors traveling from all parts of the country can easily find the distillery with directions like: “Take I-64 to Exit 58, head north on US-127, then follow the signs.” For those coming from farther out, the closest major airports are Blue Grass Airport and Louisville International Airport, approximately 30 minutes and 1.5 hours away, respectively.
Amenities and More
Available Facilities at the Distillery
Buffalo Trace offers several visitor amenities designed to enhance the experience:
- Visitor Center: Features educational exhibits on bourbon history.
- Tasting Room: Sample selections from their exceptional bourbon collection.
- Gift Shop: A variety of Buffalo Trace merchandise and unique items.
- Event Spaces: Beautiful locations for private tours and celebrations.
Having these amenities ensures that visitors get the most out of their experience at one of the most famous distilleries in the world.
The Trace Tour
Experience the Bourbon-Making Process
I was particularly captivated by the Trace Tour, where I learned bourbon facts that shocked me. Did you know that according to the Distilled Spirits Council, Kentucky distillers produce over 95% of the world’s bourbon? During the tour, I stood in the mash house, watching the entire bourbon-making process unfold—from cooking the grains to fermentation. It was enlightening to learn how Buffalo Trace employs a unique mash bill, one of the secrets behind the beloved flavors of their bourbons.
Hard Hat Tour
Behind the Scenes of Bourbon Production
The Hard Hat Tour was another highlight. I donned my hard hat and entered the production facilities. This exclusive tour takes you behind the scenes, showcasing the aging warehouses where more than 9,000 barrels sit quietly maturing. The smell of whiskey aging in charred oak barrels was intoxicating! I learned about the scientific precision that goes into quality control, ensuring that every bottle maintains the remarkable standards Buffalo Trace is known for.
Old Taylor Tour
Exploring Historic Sites within the Distillery
The Old Taylor Tour sends visitors back in time, showcasing historic sites within the distillery grounds, such as the iconic Old Taylor distillery buildings that date back to the 1800s. Walking through these historical structures, I felt a deep connection to the bourbon legacy. Buffalo Trace is enrolled in the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring that the rich history is preserved and celebrated.
Top Ways to Experience Buffalo Trace Distillery
Recommended Activities for Visitors
While visiting, I discovered multiple activities making the trip even more enjoyable:
- Bourbon Tastings: Sample a variety of their renowned labels.
- Sip and Paint Classes: Combine art with bourbon for a unique experience.
- Seasonal Festivals: Participate in seasonal events celebrating local flavors.
These activities give you a taste of everything Buffalo Trace has to offer, allowing visitors to connect with bourbon culture in different ways.
Gift Shop Product Availability
Exclusive Items for Purchase
The gift shop is a treasure trove for bourbon lovers. In addition to standard merchandise, the shop offers exclusive items only available on-site. Popular products include special bottlings, branded glassware, and apparel. These items make for fantastic keepsakes or gifts for fellow bourbon enthusiasts.
Best Gifts for the Bourbon Fan
Unique Bourbon-Related Gifts
Shopping in the gift shop, I found delightful gifts such as:
- Bourbon-infused gourmet foods
- Custom barrel-aged coasters
- Bourbon-themed board games
Each of these unique items captivated me, making it impossible to leave empty-handed!
Buffalo Trace Director’s Decanter
Specialty Products for Collectors
The Buffalo Trace Director’s Decanter is one of the most sought-after specialty items among bourbon collectors. This elegant decanter, inspired by the history of the distillery, attracts both collectors and bourbon aficionados alike. Limited editions bring immense value, often reselling in the collector’s market for over $500, showcasing the passion and dedication to excellence in bourbon craftsmanship.
Travel Guides
Helpful Resources for Planning Your Visit
Planning my visit was simplified by numerous resources. The official Buffalo Trace website provides a wealth of information, including tour schedules and special events. In addition, various travel blogs and forums present reviews and tips from other bourbon enthusiasts, enhancing my adventure and allowing me to make the most of my time.
The Area
Attractions and Highlights Nearby
Beyond the distillery, the Frankfort area has attractions worth exploring:
- Kentucky State Capitol: A stunning building with rich history.
- Buffalo Trace Park: Outdoor recreation opportunities abound.
- Local Wineries: Sample the best of Kentucky’s vineyard offerings.
Extending my visit to experience these sites added depth to my bourbon journey.
Customer Care
Support and Assistance for Visitors
The customer care at Buffalo Trace is exceptional. I found staff members eager to answer questions and share their passion for bourbon. Their guidance made each step of my visit enjoyable, enhancing my overall experience and ensuring that I left with a deeper understanding of the bourbon world.
Stay Connected
Stay Updated on Events and Promotions
To keep up with the latest happenings at Buffalo Trace, I recommend following them on social media. Their active presence keeps fans updated on tours, special promotions, and limited releases, ensuring I never miss out on exciting news or events!
FAQ
Where is Buffalo Trace distilled?
Buffalo Trace is distilled in Frankfort, Kentucky, along the stunning Kentucky River, a location famed for high-quality bourbon production.
How much does it cost to tour the Buffalo Trace Distillery?
Most tours at Buffalo Trace are free, although specific tours such as the Hard Hat Tour incur a fee of around $10, offering a more in-depth experience.
Why is Buffalo Trace Distillery not on the bourbon Trail?
Although not included on the official Bourbon Trail, Buffalo Trace boasts a distinguished reputation as one of the highest-rated bourbon producers, showcasing quality over mere geographical designation.
Where do you fly into for Buffalo Trace Distillery?
Flying into Blue Grass Airport in Lexington is most convenient, being just 30 minutes away from Buffalo Trace, providing quick access to this bourbon haven.
