Buffalo Trace Bourbon
Buffalo Trace Bourbon is one of the most iconic and sought-after bourbon brands in the world. Hailing from the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, this bourbon has earned a reputation for its quality, craftsmanship, and smooth, rich flavor. The distillery’s products range from its flagship Buffalo Trace Bourbon to premium, limited-edition bottles that attract collectors and connoisseurs alike. Whether you are new to bourbon or a seasoned whiskey enthusiast, Buffalo Trace’s offerings have something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the different bourbon products from Buffalo Trace, answer common questions, and share tips on finding the best bottles.

The History of Buffalo Trace Distillery
Buffalo Trace Distillery, located in Frankfort, Kentucky, has a rich history that spans more than two centuries. Originally established as the Old Fire Copper Distillery in 1775, it holds the distinction of being one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the United States. Throughout its long history, Buffalo Trace has produced exceptional whiskey and has seen many transformations. It was renamed Buffalo Trace Distillery in 1999. Today, the distillery is owned by the Sazerac Company, which also produces several other popular whiskey brands. Buffalo Trace has become synonymous with quality, and its products are cherished by bourbon lovers worldwide.
Buffalo Trace Bourbon: The Flagship Product
The heart and soul of Buffalo Trace Distillery is its Buffalo Trace Bourbon. Known for its smooth, well-balanced profile, this bourbon is made from a corn, rye, and barley mash bill, resulting in a flavor profile that’s rich with notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of spice. With an ABV of 45% (90 proof), it offers a full-bodied experience that works well for sipping neat or in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan. This bourbon’s affordability and consistent quality have earned it a dedicated following, and it’s widely considered a great entry point for those new to bourbon.
Weller Bourbon: A Wheated Bourbon Delight
Another celebrated product from Buffalo Trace is Weller Bourbon, which is part of the wheated bourbon category. Unlike traditional bourbons that use rye as the secondary grain, Weller Bourbon uses wheat, giving it a smoother, softer taste. This gives Weller a distinct sweetness that appeals to those who prefer a less spicy profile. The Weller lineup includes several expressions: Weller Special Reserve, Weller Antique 107, Weller 12 Year Old, and the rare William Larue Weller. Each expression has its unique character, but all are known for their smooth texture and rich, approachable flavors.
Pappy Van Winkle: The Pinnacle of Bourbon
Perhaps the most famous bourbon produced by Buffalo Trace is Pappy Van Winkle, a legendary brand that has become synonymous with exclusivity and exceptional quality. Pappy Van Winkle includes several expressions, such as Pappy Van Winkle 12 Year Old, Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year Old, Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year Old, and the ultra-rare Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year Old. The bourbon is aged for long periods, allowing the flavors to mature and develop deep complexity. Pappy Van Winkle is highly sought after and often sold at a premium on the secondary market due to its limited availability and reputation for perfection.

Buffalo Trace Antique Collection: Rare and Exceptional
Each year, Buffalo Trace releases the highly coveted Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC). This collection includes some of the distillery’s most rare and highly sought-after bourbons. The BTAC consists of William Larue Weller, George T. Stagg, Thomas H. Handy, Evan Williams Single Barrel, and Sazerac Rye 18 Year Old. These bottles are produced in small quantities and are released annually, making them a collector’s dream. Bottled at cask strength, the BTAC releases are known for their intense, full-bodied flavors and complexity. Finding a bottle of BTAC at retail prices is a rare occurrence, and collectors often pay a premium for these limited releases.
Eagle Rare Bourbon: A Refined Classic
Another standout product from Buffalo Trace is Eagle Rare Bourbon. This bourbon is aged for 10 years and features a rich, smooth flavor profile with notes of oak, toffee, and a hint of herbs. Eagle Rare is well-regarded for its complexity and is often considered an excellent choice for sipping straight or in cocktails. It’s also available in a rare 17-year-old edition, which offers an even deeper complexity and rich flavors. Eagle Rare is a great value for its age and quality, earning it a dedicated following among bourbon aficionados.
Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon: The First of Its Kind
Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon holds a special place in the history of bourbon. It was the first-ever single-barrel bourbon ever produced, and it remains one of the most beloved bourbons in the world today. Every bottle of Blanton’s comes from a single barrel, making each one unique in flavor. The bourbon features a smooth, rich profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of spice. Blanton’s has become a symbol of top-quality bourbon, and collectors often seek out rare bottles like Blanton’s Gold or Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel, which are limited editions with higher proof.
Buffalo Trace Rye Whiskey: A Spicy Alternative
For those who prefer a spicier flavor profile, Buffalo Trace Rye Whiskey is an excellent option. Made with a higher percentage of rye, this whiskey has a bold, peppery flavor that contrasts nicely with the smoothness of traditional bourbons. The Buffalo Trace Rye Whiskey is crafted to be a versatile spirit, suitable for sipping or mixing in cocktails like the Manhattan or Whiskey Sour. It is a great choice for anyone looking to explore the spicier side of whiskey, offering a refreshing change of pace from the sweeter notes of bourbon.
The Science of Buffalo Trace’s Mash Bills
One of the key elements behind the success of Buffalo-Trace Bourbon products is the distillery’s approach to mash bills. The distillery uses a range of mash bills (the combination of grains used in the whiskey production process) to create different flavor profiles. Buffalo Trace Bourbon itself uses a mash bill with a higher proportion of corn, balanced with rye and barley. Other products, such as Weller and Blanton’s, use different mash bills, such as the wheated mash bill for Weller, which creates a softer, sweeter flavor. Understanding these mash bills helps explain the distinct characteristics of each product.



People Also Ask: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes Buffalo Trace Bourbon special?
Buffalo-Trace Bourbon is celebrated for its smooth, well-balanced flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice. Its consistent quality, combined with its rich history and exceptional craftsmanship, makes it one of the top choices for bourbon lovers.
2. How long is Buffalo Trace Bourbon aged?
Buffalo-Trace Bourbon is aged for a period of 6-8 years. This allows the whiskey to develop its smooth, rich flavor without the heavy oak influence that longer aging can bring.
3. How much does Pappy Van Winkle cost?
The price of Pappy Van Winkle varies depending on the expression and market demand. Typically, bottles range from $200 to over $2,000. However, secondary market prices can be significantly higher, especially for rare editions like the 23 Year Old.
4. What is the best Buffalo Trace Bourbon to try first?
For newcomers, Buffalo-Trace Bourbon is a great starting point. It’s affordable, versatile, and offers a well-rounded flavor that will appeal to most bourbon drinkers. For those who enjoy sweeter bourbons, Weller Special Reserve is another excellent choice.
5. Is Eagle Rare a good bourbon?
Yes, Eagle Rare Bourbon is highly regarded for its complexity and smoothness. Aged for 10 years, it offers a rich flavor with hints of oak, toffee, and herbs, making it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts.
6. How do I find Buffalo Trace products?
Buffalo-Trace products can be found at most liquor stores, particularly those with a large selection of premium spirits. However, certain products, like Pappy Van Winkle or BTAC, may be harder to find due to their rarity. It’s also worth checking online retailers, but be prepared to pay a premium for rare bottles.
Conclusion: Buffalo Trace Bourbon’s Legacy of Excellence
Buffalo-Trace Distillery’s range of bourbon products showcases the distillery’s commitment to quality, innovation, and craftsmanship. From the flagship Buffalo Trace Bourbon to the ultra-rare Pappy Van Winkle and the highly collectible Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, these whiskeys represent some of the finest spirits in the world. Whether you’re a bourbon novice or a seasoned connoisseur, there’s a product in the Buffalo Trace lineup that suits every taste and occasion. The distillery’s dedication to the craft ensures that Buffalo-Trace will continue to be a cornerstone of the bourbon world for years to come.