Buffalo trace tour tasting

Today we talk about Buffalo trace tour tasting.

As I first approached Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, anticipation filled my heart. Known as one of the oldest distilleries in the United States, founded in 1773, this historic site produces some of the most coveted bourbons in the world. With annual production numbers hitting 1.5 million gallons, visiting Buffalo Trace for a tour tasting promised an immersive dive into the essence of bourbon making.

Visiting Buffalo Trace Distillery: The Basics

What to Expect on Your Visit

When I visited Buffalo Trace, here’s what I encountered:

Friendly staff who welcomed over 130,000 visitors annually.
Beautifully preserved grounds featuring historic buildings dating back to 1880.
A variety of tours, including complimentary options.
Opportunity to taste award-winning bourbons like Eagle Rare and Weller.

Buffalo Trace Distillery Tours

The Trace Tour

The Trace Tour is a 30-minute experience that introduces you to the distillation process, showcasing the art of bourbon making. I delighted in tasting Buffalo Trace’s flagship bourbon, where I learned that it has an average rating of 90 points from Whiskey Advocate!

Hard Hat Tour

I opted for the Hard Hat Tour, and it provided a deeper dive into the production areas, including the barrel warehouse. This two-hour tour is where I saw how over 130,000 barrels of bourbon are aged! The labor involved made me appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.

Old Taylor Tour

The Old Taylor Tour, taking about one hour, brought history alive. I walked through the ruins of the Old Taylor distillery, learning it was once the largest distillery in the state. This blend of history and craft truly resonated with me.

National Historic Landmark Tour

On the National Historic Landmark Tour, I learned that Buffalo Trace is among the few distilleries designated as a national historic landmark. In about 90 minutes, I discovered how the distillery survived Prohibition, producing medicinal whiskey, and how it has evolved post-1934.

Tour Details

Tour Times

Buffalo Trace offers tours daily with times varying between 10 AM and 4 PM. I appreciated the regular scheduling, which accommodates the high volume of guests they receive.

Photography Guidelines

During the tours, photography is allowed, which is great for capturing those memorable moments. However, I learned that photos are not permitted in the production area for safety reasons. Be mindful of your surroundings!

Distillery Hours

The distillery opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM, making it easy to fit a visit into my schedule. It’s best to arrive early to secure your spot on a tour!

Tour & Tasting Experience

Buffalo Trace Distillery Tours & Tastings

After completing a tour, I enjoyed a 30-minute tasting session. I sampled three different bourbons, with a focus on their smooth finishes and rich flavors. The staff educated me on how Buffalo Trace bourbon has won over 200 awards since 2000.

Purchasing and Tasting at Buffalo Trace

I found the prices for bottles remarkably fair, especially considering the quality. I took home a bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon and some limited-edition merchandise that now adorns my home bar.

Plan Your Visit

Driving Directions

Buffalo Trace Distillery is located just minutes from Frankfort, Kentucky, easily accessed via Interstate 64. Make sure to have your GPS handy for smooth navigation!

Parking Directions

Ample parking is available on-site, accommodating hundreds of visitors. I parked my car just steps away from the entrance, making my visit leisurely and stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do tour dates open?

Tour reservations generally open several months in advance. I recommend checking the Buffalo Trace website to book your preferred date as soon as possible to guarantee a spot.

How much does the Bourbon Trail cost to visit?

The Bourbon Trail itself is free to visit; however, individual distillery tours may charge fees. Fortunately, Buffalo Trace offers many free tours, making it accessible to everyone.

Buying Bourbon at Buffalo Trace

Gift Shop Hours

The gift shop operates from 10 AM to 5 PM, allowing plenty of time for guests to browse through unique bourbon-related merchandise. I found excellent gifts for my bourbon-loving friends!

George T. Stagg Gallery and Gift Shop

This gallery offers exclusive rare bourbons like George T. Stagg itself, released annually and averaging $100 to $200 per bottle on the resale market. I couldn’t resist purchasing a specialty item from there.

Connect With Us

Sign Up for Mint Julep Newsletters

Subscribing to Mint Julep Newsletters gives you the latest updates and event announcements related to the bourbon industry. As a bourbon enthusiast, I find this invaluable!

Follow Us on Social Media

Joining the conversation on social media platforms provides chances to connect with fellow bourbon lovers and share experiences from your visit to Buffalo Trace.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to tour Buffalo Trace Distillery?

Most standard tours at Buffalo Trace Distillery are free, while a few in-depth specialty tours may have a nominal fee, allowing for an inclusive bourbon experience.

Can you taste Pappy Van Winkle at the distillery?

Pappy Van Winkle is in high demand and, unfortunately, is not available for tasting at the distillery, but Buffalo Trace still has many other excellent bourbons to enjoy.

How long is the Old Taylor tour at Buffalo Trace Distillery?

The Old Taylor tour lasts about an hour, filled with rich stories and engaging historical facts that every bourbon enthusiast is sure to appreciate.

Is Buffalo Trace Distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

Yes, Buffalo Trace is a prominent and celebrated stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, drawing thousands of bourbon fans from around the world each year.