Buffalo trace distllery

Today we talk about Buffalo trace distllery.

Walking through the gates of Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, I can’t help but absorb the rich history and craftsmanship surrounding me. Established in 1773, Buffalo Trace is recognized as one of the most awarded distilleries in the world, producing over 1 million cases of bourbon annually. Join me as we dive deep into various facets of this iconic distillery that has captivated bourbon lovers for generations.

STAND STRONG

Commitment to Quality and Craftsmanship

Buffalo Trace Distillery stands as a testament to quality and craftsmanship, producing exceptional bourbons that have won over 300 awards since 2000. Their commitment is evident in several aspects:

Time-Honored Techniques: The distillery utilizes methods, such as pot still distillation, passed down through generations.
Ingredient Integrity: Buffalo Trace’s bourbon is crafted from locally sourced corn, rye, and malted barley, ensuring the taste is true to Kentucky bourbon traditions.
Age and Maturation: Many of their whiskeys are aged between 4 to 12 years in new charred oak barrels, creating distinct flavor profiles that are celebrated.

What Buffalo Trace Is Selling Today

Latest Releases and Offerings

Buffalo Trace continually excites the market with new releases, often limited edition and highly coveted. Some notable recent releases include:

Buffalo Trace Bourbon: Retailing at around $25, this flagship bourbon is celebrated for its deep caramel and vanilla notes.
Weller Special Reserve: This wheated bourbon is a fan-favorite, averaging $25-$50 at retail, known for its approachable sweetness.
E.H. Taylor, Jr. Series: Ranging from $40 to $500, these limited-edition bourbons reflect the high standards set by Colonel E.H. Taylor.

Buffalo Trace Distillery Products

Overview of Signature Spirits

Buffalo Trace Distillery produces a variety of signature spirits that each tell a part of their story, known for their quality and taste. Notable products include:

Buffalo Trace Bourbon: A balanced spirit with a mash bill of 10% rye, offering flavors of vanilla, toffee, and a hint of spice.
Blanton’s Bourbon: The first single barrel bourbon, averaging $65-$100 a bottle, offers complex flavors with a spicy finish.
Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Bourbon: This premium bourbon often retails for upwards of $100, noted for its rich caramel and oak characteristics.

Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection

Innovative Spirits for the Adventurous Palate

The Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection exemplifies innovation, featuring unique spirits that push the boundaries of traditional bourbon making. Highlights include:

Hearing vs. No Hearing Experiments: These experiments monitor how the presence or absence of sound affects flavor development during aging.
Seasonal Yeasts: An exploration of how different yeast strains enhance distinct flavors across maturation seasons.
Wood Experiments: Using various wood types for aging has led to new flavor profiles, with some whiskies showing sweeter and spicier notes.

Top Ways to Experience Buffalo Trace Distillery

Unique Tours and Tastings Available

Experiencing Buffalo Trace is a sensory adventure, and they offer engaging tours and tastings tailored for every visitor. Notable options include:

The Hard Hat Tour: A free 2-hour deep dive into the distilling process, including exclusive access to barrel warehouses.
Distillery Tour: A 1-hour journey through the rich history of Buffalo Trace and its bourbon production, typically attracting over 200,000 annual visitors.
Private Tastings: Curated experiences to taste limited-edition spirits, ideal for events, averaging $75 per person.

Amenities at Buffalo Trace Distillery

Visitor Experience and Facilities

The visitor experience at Buffalo Trace is exceptional, with various amenities that enhance enjoyment. Key features include:

Gift Shop: Stocked with exclusive Buffalo Trace merchandise and spirits, it sees sales increase by 20% during the holidays.
Picnic Areas: Scenic spots that invite visitors to relax and savor their bourbon during pleasant Kentucky weather.
Research Center: Home to a vast library of bourbon literature, contributing to the education of every bourbon lover.

Buffalo Trace Distillery’s Signature Bourbons

Features of Popular Bourbons

The flavor profiles of Buffalo Trace’s signature bourbons capture the essence of American whiskey. Notable features include:

Buffalo Trace Bourbon: Priced around $25, this bourbon offers a delightful mix of vanilla, toffee, and dark fruit.
Blanton’s: Known for its distinctive flavor, averaging $65 per bottle, it showcases notes of citrus and dark chocolate.
E.H. Taylor, Jr.: Often priced at over $100, it is characterized by rich caramel and an elegant, oaked finish.

Buffalo Trace Distillery’s Award-Winning Spirits

Recognitions and Industry Accolades

Buffalo Trace’s spirits are highly decorated, with over 300 awards since the start of the 21st century, including:

Double Gold Medals: At prestigious events like the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Whiskey Advocate Scores: Frequently receiving scores above 90 from expert tasters in leading publications.
Best Bourbon Awards: Recognized as “Best Bourbon” by multiple industry sources, affirming their superior craftsmanship.

Buffalo Trace Distillery Shopping Experience

How to Purchase Buffalo Trace Products

Purchasing Buffalo Trace products is seamless, whether through their gift shop, major retailers, or reputable online platforms. They offer exclusive releases through special events and via their website, reinforcing their commitment to engaging their loyal fan base.

Special Events at Buffalo Trace Distillery

Annual Festivals and Themed Events

Buffalo Trace hosts various events throughout the year that offer unique experiences, including:

Whiskey Festival: An annual event attracting thousands, featuring tastings, food pairings, and live music performances.
Buffalo Trace Bourbon 101: Offerings include classes designed to teach consumers about bourbon, attendance exceeding 500 each year.
Themed Pairing Dinners: Culinary experiences that celebrate spirits, often selling out quickly due to high demand.

Join the Buffalo Trace Community

Engagement through Social Media and Newsletters

Connecting with Buffalo Trace is easy; their active presence on social media and newsletters keeps enthusiasts engaged. The community boasts over 250 thousand followers on Instagram, where fans can share experiences and receive updates on new releases.

Buffalo Trace Distillery Behind the Scenes

Insights into the Production Process

Going behind the scenes at Buffalo Trace is a rewarding experience that highlights their bourbon-making processes, including:

Mashing: The process blends grains with hot water, extracting sugars crucial for fermentation.
Fermentation: Lasting around 3-5 days, yeasts convert the sugars into alcohol, producing an essential “wash.”
Distillation: The wash is heated to separate alcohol, achieving a clear spirit with a unique character.
Aging: The bourbon ages in new charred oak barrels for anywhere from 4 up to 12 years, which heavily influences the final flavor profile.

Visitor Testimonials

What Travelers Are Saying about Buffalo Trace

Visitors consistently laud their experiences at Buffalo Trace, often noting the knowledgeable guides and stunning setting. Common feedback highlights how friendly the staff is, enhancing the entire experience and leaving a lasting impression.

Buffalo Trace Advocate Programs

Become a Member and Enjoy Exclusive Benefits

Joining the Buffalo Trace Advocate Program provides members with exclusive access to limited releases, special promotions, and unique events. With over 50,000 members, this program fosters a thriving community of bourbon aficionados.

Buffalo Trace Distillery Merchandise

Branded Products Available for Fans

Buffalo Trace offers an array of branded merchandise, allowing fans to express their love for the distillery, including glassware, apparel, and collectibles. The merchandise often sees a 30% increase in sales during peak tourist seasons, illustrating the loyalty of their fanbase.

FAQ

What distillery makes Buffalo Trace?

Buffalo Trace Distillery is the producer of Buffalo Trace Bourbon and operates out of Frankfort, Kentucky—a hub for some of the finest bourbon in the world.

How much does it cost to tour the Buffalo Trace Distillery?

A tour of the Buffalo Trace Distillery is free of charge but requires advanced reservations due to high demand, especially during peak season.

Why is Buffalo Trace Distillery not on the Bourbon Trail?

Buffalo Trace Distillery, despite its high profile, is not part of the official Bourbon Trail but remains one of the most visited and celebrated distilleries in Kentucky.

Is Blanton’s and Buffalo Trace made in the same distillery?

Yes, Blanton’s Bourbon and Buffalo Trace Bourbon are both produced at Buffalo Trace Distillery, sharing the same commitment to quality and craftsmanship.