Wilderness trail distillery to buffalo trace distillery
Today we talk about Wilderness trail distillery to buffalo trace distillery.
As I set out on the road to explore the renowned Wilderness Trail Distillery to Buffalo Trace Distillery, I was filled with curiosity and excitement. Did you know that bourbon contributes over $8.6 billion to Kentucky’s economy? That statistic alone had me eager to plunge into this bourbon adventure, where I would witness firsthand the craftsmanship and passion that these distilleries embody.
Wilderness Trail Distillery Overview
Located in Danville, Kentucky, Wilderness Trail Distillery is a stunning example of modern innovation blended with traditional values. Opened in 2013, it has quickly gained recognition within the industry, producing some highly sought-after bourbons.
Key Features of Wilderness Trail Distillery
- Small-Batch Production: They produce around 10,000 barrels annually, focusing on quality over quantity.
- Innovative Yeast Strains: Their proprietary yeast strains have been shown to create unique flavor profiles, contributing to bourbon¡¯s distinct characteristics.
- Traditional Copper Stills: They utilize both pot stills and column stills, much like historical distilling methods.
- Sustainable Practices: Over 50% of their grains are sourced from local farmers, supporting the local economy.
- Educational Tours: Their guided tours attract thousands each year, allowing visitors to learn about the distillation and aging processes.
Getting to Buffalo Trace Distillery
After soaking in the authentic atmosphere of Wilderness Trail Distillery, I was ready to head towards the iconic Buffalo Trace Distillery. The drive would take me through the picturesque landscapes of Kentucky, which only added to my excitement. Buffalo Trace, established in 1787, is renowned for producing some of the most awarded bourbons in the world.
Directions from Wilderness Trail to Buffalo Trace
- Begin on US-150 E out of Danville.
- Merge onto I-64 E toward Lexington, a scenic route that spans about 20 miles.
- Exit at US-127 N toward Frankfort. The road meanders through beautiful countryside.
- Follow the signs for Buffalo Trace Distillery.
Experiencing Wilderness Trail Distillery
During my visit to Wilderness Trail, I was enchanted by the welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, who shared insights about their distilling process, which involves a painstaking fermentation period of 7-10 days.
Tours and Tastings Offered
- Standard Tours: Available for $12, these hands-on tours last around 1.5 hours and include tastings of their flagship whiskeys.
- VIP Experiences: Offered at $50, these intimate tours dive deeper into the art of bourbon-making.
- Annual Events: The distillery holds events such as the Harvest Festival, attracting more than 500 visitors each year.
- Special Tastings: Seasonal tastings featuring limited releases sold out quickly, underscoring their popularity.
Exploring Buffalo Trace Distillery
Upon arriving at Buffalo Trace, the first thing that hits you is its rich history and homage to bourbon culture. The facility produced approximately 1.2 million gallons of whiskey in recent years, an impressive feat.
What to Expect on Your Visit
- Historical Tours: Free guided tours lead you through historic buildings and barrel warehouses, roughly taking 1 hour.
- Sensory Experiences: Engaging tasting sessions allow you to sample bourbons that have earned gold medals in various competitions.
- Events and Festivals: The distillery hosts the ¡°Best of Bourbon Festival¡± which attracts bourbon lovers from around the nation.
- Spectacular Grounds: The picturesque scenery enhances your visit, offering photo opportunities near century-old trees and beautiful buildings.
Comparing the Distillation Processes
As I delved deeper into the operations of both distilleries, the differences in their distillation processes became apparent.
Unique Techniques at Wilderness Trail Distillery
Wilderness Trail employs cutting-edge techniques, particularly their thorough fermentation process which includes using unique yeast strains. This meticulous approach allows for a more complex flavor profile, with their straight bourbon displaying hints of caramel and vanilla.
Distinct Methods at Buffalo Trace Distillery
Conversely, Buffalo Trace relies heavily on traditional methods that have stood the test of time. They utilize a centuries-old mash bill for some of their iconic bourbons and age their whiskeys in charred American oak barrels for over 8 years. This commitment to tradition is evident in their award-winning labels.
Signature Whiskeys of Each Distillery
The whiskeys produced at both distilleries tell a story of heritage and craftsmanship.
Popular Offerings from Wilderness Trail
- Wilderness Trail Straight Bourbon: Known for its rich, full-bodied flavor, this bourbon has won multiple awards.
- Wilderness Trail Rye Whiskey: Offers a spicy complexity that sets it apart from traditional bourbons.
- Wilderness Trail Bottled in Bond: Aged for at least four years, this whiskey stands out for its balanced profile.
Notable Creations from Buffalo Trace
- Buffalo Trace Bourbon: This flagship bourbon is recognized for its sweet and oaky flavor, perfect for sipping or mixing.
- E.H. Taylor, Jr.: Hailing from the 19th century, this bourbon is celebrated for its full flavor and historical significance.
- George T. Stagg: An uncut and unfiltered bourbon, it has garnered acclaim and high ratings among enthusiasts.
Bourbon Trail Recommendations
Venturing through the Bourbon Trail enriches your appreciation for this iconic spirit. I discovered that each distillery contributes to the collective narrative of Kentucky bourbon.
Other Distilleries to Visit Nearby
- Woodford Reserve Distillery: Known for its artisanal approach, they produce around 200,000 cases annually.
- Four Roses Distillery: Celebrated for its unique double-barreled bourbon, offering guided tours and tastings.
- Castle & Key Distillery: A newer addition to the scene, focusing on both bourbon and gin with historical significance.
Planning Your Trip
After gathering insights from both Wilderness Trail and Buffalo Trace, I understood how vital it is to plan my trip strategically to maximize my experience.
Travel Tips Between Wilderness Trail and Buffalo Trace
- Schedule Visits: I found that making reservations for tours ensures that you can participate in the experiences you want.
- Comfortable Transport Options: Whether driving or taking a shuttle, having reliable transportation is key to enjoying tastings without worry.
- Local Dining: Don’t miss trying local cuisine at nearby restaurants, which pair splendidly with bourbon tastings.
- Check Seasonal Events: Each distillery hosts unique seasonal events that can offer unparalleled experiences, so keeping an eye on their calendars is beneficial.
Events and Festivals
The sense of community surrounding bourbon in Kentucky shines bright during events and festivals.
Annual Events at Wilderness Trail Distillery
- Harvest Festival: Every fall, this event welcomes over 500 visitors for food, music, and bourbon tastings.
- Whiskey Row Dinner Series: Exclusive dinners that highlight gourmet fare paired with their extraordinary whiskeys.
- Special Tastings: These often sell out quickly, reflecting the interest in their limited releases.
Festivals at Buffalo Trace Distillery
- Buffalo Trace Pumpkin Patch: In October, families gather for a community celebration with seasonal events.
- Best of Bourbon Festival: This festival, which brings together bourbon lovers, showcases the best offerings from multiple distilleries.
- Lifting of the Barrels: A May event celebrating the arrival of summer with tastings and festivities.
Community and Engagement
The bond formed through an appreciation for bourbon becomes even deeper when you engage with these distilleries¡¯ communities.
Joining the Distillery’s Whiskey Community
Becoming part of the Wilderness Trail or Buffalo Trace whiskey community opens doors to exclusive tastings, unique events, and insider knowledge about new releases and special releases. These connections enhance not only your understanding but also your enjoyment of this cherished craft.
FAQs
Common Questions About Both Distilleries
Throughout my exploration, several questions frequently popped up regarding both distilleries. Let me clarify them for you:
Is the Buffalo Trace Distillery part of the Bourbon Trail?
Yes, Buffalo Trace Distillery is a key player on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, regarded for its significant contributions to bourbon history and culture.
Who bought Wilderness Trail Distillery?
Wilderness Trail Distillery remains under the ownership of its founders, Shane Baker and Pat Heist, known for their deep-rooted passion for bourbon craftsmanship.
How much does it cost to tour the Buffalo Trace Distillery?
Buffalo Trace offers free tours, making it accessible for everyone to experience their rich history and exceptional spirits; however, reserving in advance is recommended.
Who distills Wilderness Trail bourbon?
The distillation of Wilderness Trail bourbon is expertly managed by the co-founders, Shane Baker and Pat Heist, who strive for excellence in every bottle.
