The Story of Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery, located in Frankfort, Kentucky, holds the title of the oldest continuously operating distillery in America. The distillery's name pays homage to the ancient buffalo migration paths, known as "traces," that guided America's early pioneers westward. Its roots trace back to 1775, when pioneers Hancock and Willis Lee founded Leestown along the Kentucky River. Over the years, the distillery evolved under different names, including George T. Stagg Distillery and Old Fire Copper (O.F.C.) Distillery.

How was Buffalo Trace whisky made?

Making Buffalo Trace whiskey is both an art and a science, carefully balancing tradition with precision. It all starts with selecting the finest grains—corn, rye, and malted barley for bourbon, with a higher rye content used for rye whiskeys. These grains are milled and mixed with pure Kentucky limestone water to create a mash. After cooking, this mash is ready for fermentation, where yeast is added to convert sugars into alcohol, creating what's known as "distiller’s beer."

From here, the magic of distillation begins. The beer is heated in column stills, where alcohol is separated from water and impurities. What’s left is a clear, high-proof liquid called "white dog." Before aging, it’s diluted to 125 proof (62.5% ABV) and placed into brand-new, charred American oak barrels. Then, patience takes over. The barrels rest in historic warehouses, where shifts in temperature help develop the whiskey’s deep flavor and signature amber hue. When the whiskey reaches its peak, it's time for the finishing touches—filtration, proofing, and bottling.

Buffalo Trace Bottle Selections

Buffalo Trace Distillery offers a wide range of bourbons, from classic staples to exclusive limited editions. Each bottle reflects the distillery’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship, making every sip a celebration of tradition and innovation.

Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

If you're searching for a bourbon that honors history while delivering exceptional flavor, Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is the perfect choice. Inspired by the trails carved by migrating buffalo, this whiskey represents both exploration and heritage. With over 200 years of expertise behind every bottle, you’re experiencing a true piece of American whiskey-making.

The Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, valued at €69 EUR, is a refined choice featuring caramel, toasted oak, and spice at 40% ABV. For those who enjoy a bolder profile, the Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Cask Nr.222, bottled at 45% ABV, offers deep vanilla, rich oak, and a smooth yet powerful finish. And for a classic pour, the Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 90 Proof, at 45% ABV, delivers sweet corn, dark fruit, and warming spice.

Buffalo Trace Single Barrel

For those who appreciate unique character in every sip, Buffalo Trace Single Barrel stands out. Each bottle is drawn from a single barrel, highlighting the distinct flavors developed during aging. With the same expert craftsmanship behind every release, this bourbon offers a smooth and complex experience.

The Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Select balances sweetness and spice at 40% ABV, making it an excellent addition to any collection. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Nr. Lot 12-E-21 delivers an intense, well-rounded flavor with a long, satisfying finish. Single Barrel Nr.44 impresses with its bold yet smooth notes, while Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Nr.234, valued at €69 EUR, unfolds deep aromas and layers of richness—perfect for collectors and whisky lovers alike.

Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Handpicked In The Distillery

If you want something truly special, Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Handpicked In The Distillery offers a rare opportunity to own a personally selected barrel straight from the source. Each bottle reflects the unique aging process and craftsmanship that sets Buffalo Trace apart.

The Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Handpicked In The Distillery Cask Nr.106, bottled in 2020, is a standout choice. At 40% ABV, this 700ml bourbon delivers a beautifully balanced taste with warm caramel, toasted oak, and a touch of spice. If you're adding to your collection or looking for the perfect gift, this exclusive release captures the essence of Buffalo Trace’s dedication to quality.

Buffalo Trace 9 Years Old

If you appreciate a well-aged bourbon with depth and complexity, the Buffalo Trace 9 Years Old Single Cask Cask Nr.173 is a rare find that deserves a place in your collection. Extra time in the barrel enhances its character, bringing out layers of rich caramel, warm oak, and a finish that’s both smooth and bold. This single cask release, Cask Nr.173, is bottled at 45% ABV and showcases a refined balance of sweet vanilla, toasted spice, and a hint of dark fruit. Perfect for sipping neat, it’s a true standout for collectors and connoisseurs alike.

Buffalo Trace Ancient Age Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Looking for something classic yet approachable? Buffalo Trace Ancient Age Kentucky Straight Bourbon has been a favorite since the 1940s, originally crafted for everyday enjoyment. Now produced by Buffalo Trace, it continues to offer an affordable yet high-quality whiskey experience. The Buffalo Trace 4 Years Old Ancient Age Kentucky Straight Bourbon, bottled at 40% ABV, is a great introduction to bourbon with its inviting notes of vanilla and caramel, followed by a gentle spice for a well-rounded sip. This 700ml bottle is crafted with care, making it a great addition to any whiskey shelf.

Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection

For those who love innovation, the Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection pushes the boundaries of bourbon-making. Since 2006, Buffalo Trace has been testing new mash bills, barrel treatments, and aging techniques, resulting in some of the most unique releases in the industry.

A prime example is the Buffalo Trace 15 Years Old 1998 Experimental Collection. Bottled in 2013, this rare bourbon has been aged to perfection for 15 years, developing a deep and layered profile. At 45% ABV, it delivers a rich combination of bold oak, smooth vanilla, and dark fruit notes. Its rarity makes it a prized addition for collectors, while its craftsmanship highlights Buffalo Trace’s expertise in aging and flavor development.

Eagle Rare: A Legacy of Aged Bourbon

If you’re drawn to bourbons with extended aging and refined complexity, Eagle Rare is a name worth knowing. Crafted at Buffalo Trace Distillery using Mash Bill #1, it undergoes a patient maturation process to develop its signature depth. Originally a single-barrel bourbon, it transitioned to small-batch in 2019, maintaining its rich and bold character.

Notable Eagle Rare Releases:

Eagle Rare 17 Years Old

This exceptionally aged bourbon is bottled at 45% ABV, offering deep caramel richness, bold vanilla, and a warm spice finish. The 17-year maturation process creates an extraordinary depth, making it a collector’s favorite. The value of this rare release is €1,144 EUR.

Eagle Rare 10 Years Old Single Barrel Select (Cask #80)

Bottled in 2021, this 700ml release from Buffalo Trace Distillery delivers a robust and complex profile at 45% ABV. Its depth and intensity highlight the craftsmanship behind single-barrel selections. The price tag for this exclusive bottle is currently unavailable.

Eagle Rare 10 Years Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon (2020)

This 45% ABV bourbon showcases a smooth balance of vanilla, oak, and light spice. Aged for a decade, it embodies the rich tradition and quality of Eagle Rare. The worth of this bottle was last recorded at €73 EUR.

W.L. Weller: The Smooth Side of Buffalo Trace

If you prefer a smoother, softer bourbon, W.L. Weller is a standout in Buffalo Trace’s lineup. Unlike traditional bourbons that use rye, Weller replaces it with wheat, creating a sweeter and more approachable flavor. Many compare it to Pappy Van Winkle since both share the same mash bill and aging process. However, Weller is often seen as a more accessible alternative.

Notable W.L. Weller Releases

Weller 12 Years Old

Aged for 12 years, this bourbon delivers rich caramel sweetness, spicy oak, and hints of vanilla. Bottled at 45% ABV in a 700ml size, it reflects Buffalo Trace’s craftsmanship. The last recorded price for this bottle was €104 EUR.

W.L. Weller Full Proof (57% ABV)

Bottled at 114 proof with no chill filtration, this bold bourbon offers aromas of vanilla, dark cherries, and caramel. The palate features caramel and toasted oak, leading to a finish of crème brûlée and chocolate. The market value is around 245 € for a 750ml bottle.

W.L. Weller Antique 107 (53.5% ABV)

This full-bodied wheated bourbon balances sweet fruit notes, deep vanilla, and bold spice. It finishes with lingering cinnamon warmth. The market worth is about €104 EUR per 750ml bottle.

Each bottle showcases Weller’s smooth yet flavorful character, making it a favorite among bourbon lovers.

Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve

Originally produced at Stitzel-Weller, this bourbon became part of Buffalo Trace’s lineup through a partnership with the Van Winkle family. Using the original wheated mash bill, Buffalo Trace maintains its legacy with long aging, exceptional smoothness, and rare releases. Its craftsmanship and scarcity make it one of the most sought-after bourbons.

Here are the most award-winning and famous bottles of Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve:

• Pappy Van Winkle’s 15-Year – One of the most sought-after bourbons, winning multiple Double Gold Medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. It’s celebrated for its bold caramel, oak, and spice flavors.

• Pappy Van Winkle’s 20-Year – Named "Spirit of the Year" by Wine & Spirits Magazine and consistently ranked among the best bourbons worldwide. Its deep oak, toffee, and fruit notes make it legendary.

• Pappy Van Winkle’s 23-Year – The oldest and rarest in the lineup, winning Gold at the International Wine & Spirits Competition. Its luxurious leather, tobacco, and caramel profile sets the gold standard for aged bourbon.

Blanton’s: The Pioneer of Single Barrel Bourbon

Blanton’s stands out as one of the most sought-after bourbons from Buffalo Trace Distillery. Unlike Buffalo Trace and Weller, it’s made from Mash Bill #2, which has a higher rye content, adding more spice and complexity. In 1984, master distiller Elmer T. Lee introduced Blanton’s as the first commercially available single-barrel bourbon. Named after Colonel Albert B. Blanton, who hand-picked barrels for VIPs, it has since become a collector’s favorite.

Blanton’s Notable Releases:

Each Blanton’s release brings something unique to the table. From bold and intense cask-strength editions to smoother, well-balanced expressions, there’s always a reason to explore this lineup.

• Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel Nr.268 Bottled in 2016 at a powerful 63.5% ABV, this bourbon delivers deep caramel, toasted oak, and dark chocolate notes with a long, spicy finish. The last recorded price was €176 EUR.

• Blanton’s Single Barrel Gold Edition Cask Nr.607 Released in 2019, this smooth 51.5% ABV bourbon highlights rich vanilla, honey, and dried fruit flavors with a touch of peppery spice. The last sale price was €148 EUR.

• Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel Nr.43 A 2021 bottling at a bold 64.1% ABV, this full-bodied bourbon layers dark fruit, leather, and smoky oak with a lingering finish. Currently available for €180 EUR.

• Blanton’s Whisky Live Paris 2020 Single Barrel Nr.455 This special edition brings forward bold vanilla, deep oak, and a warm spice kick. Since it’s a single-barrel whiskey, every bottle offers a one-of-a-kind experience.

Blanton’s remains a top choice for collectors and bourbon lovers alike.

George T. Stagg

Buffalo Trace Distillery pays tribute to its past with this special collection. During Prohibition, when most distilleries shut down, the George T. Stagg Distillery was one of the few permitted to produce medicinal whiskey. The Prohibition Collection revives legendary labels from that time, offering a rare glimpse into history with every sip.

George T. Stagg Notable Releases:

These whiskeys showcase the bold character and rich flavors of their era. Each bottle reflects the craftsmanship that made George T. Stagg a household name.

• Old Stagg (132.4 proof) This uncut, unfiltered bourbon delivers bold oak and vanilla aromas. The palate bursts with dark cherries and leather, finishing smoothly with warm vanilla. Market value sits at around €200 EUR per 375ml bottle.

• Golden Wedding (107 proof) A high-rye whiskey with a grain-forward nose and herbal spice. Hints of dill, smoke, and banana add depth to its long finish. Priced at approximately €200 EUR per 375ml bottle.

• Three Feathers (100 proof) A bottled-in-bond whiskey with vanilla and charred oak on the nose. Stone fruit and tropical notes lead to a smoky caramel and cocoa finish. Estimated value is €200 EUR per 375ml bottle.

This collection is more than just whiskey—it’s a tribute to resilience, history, and the craft of bourbon-making.

O.F.C. Vintages: A Tribute to Time

Some bourbons are made for the moment, but others are crafted for history. The O.F.C. Vintages Collection honors the legacy of the Old Fire Copper Distillery, founded in 1870 by Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. These rare releases showcase Buffalo Trace’s mastery of long-term aging, with each bottle offering a glimpse into the past. Aged for decades and presented in hand-cut crystal, they are as much a collector’s piece as they are a sensory experience.

What is the Most Expensive Buffalo Trace Whisky?

Not all bourbon is created equal, and some bottles reach legendary status. Among Buffalo Trace’s most prized releases, one whiskey stands above the rest: Old Rip Van Winkle 25-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

For those lucky enough to taste it, this bourbon delivers an unforgettable experience. You’ll find rich notes of oak, sugar, caramel, and vanilla, creating a perfectly balanced sip. A true masterpiece in the world of whiskey.

OTHER NOTABLE BRANDS FROM BUFFALO TRACE

Sazerac Rye

Named after the famed New Orleans Sazerac cocktail, Sazerac Rye revives a 19th-century tradition with a bold, spicy character. First produced by Buffalo Trace in the early 2000s, it pays homage to the Sazerac Coffee House, where America’s first cocktail was born. The whiskey balances mellow spice and dry sweetness, making it an essential ingredient in a classic Sazerac.

Notable Bottles:

• Sazerac Rye Whiskey (45% ABV) – Classic notes of vanilla, cloves, and citrus with a smooth, lingering finish.
• Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old (45% ABV) – Aged complexity with flavors of cinnamon, black pepper, and mint.
• Thomas H. Handy Sazerac (64.75% ABV) – Uncut and unfiltered, delivering intense caramel, spice, and toffee notes.

Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel

Created in 1986 by legendary master distiller Elmer T. Lee, this bourbon set the standard for single-barrel releases. Named in his honor, it features a perfectly balanced profile of caramel, vanilla, and spice. Each bottle is hand-selected to maintain Lee’s vision of exceptional bourbon craftsmanship.

Notable Bottles:

• Elmer T. Lee 90th Birthday Edition (45% ABV) – Rich honey, vanilla, and spice with a refined, smooth finish.
• Elmer T. Lee 100 Year Tribute (50% ABV) – Deep maple syrup aromas, creamy vanilla, and a coffee-tinged finish.
• Elmer T. Lee Commemorative Bottle (46.5% ABV) – Vanilla, caramel, and a silky honey palate with a luxurious finish.

Traveller Whiskey

Sometimes, a great whiskey is the result of patience. Other times, it’s about the perfect partnership. Traveller Whiskey is the latter—a collaboration between Buffalo Trace and country music star Chris Stapleton. After testing over 50 blends, they landed on Blend No. 40, a smooth, well-balanced bourbon that reflects Stapleton’s dedication to authenticity and craftsmanship.

Notable Bottle:

• Traveller Whiskey Blend No. 40 (45% ABV) – Vanilla, aged fruit, and buttery shortbread on the nose, with a caramel and toasted oak finish.

Old Charter

If you’ve ever wondered how different types of oak impact whiskey, Old Charter is your answer. Originally introduced in the late 19th century, this high-corn bourbon has stood the test of time. Today, Buffalo Trace continues the brand with both classic releases and experimental oak-aged expressions. The Old Charter Oak series explores unique wood influences, delivering fascinating flavor profiles.

Notable Bottles:

• Old Charter Oak French Oak (46% ABV) – Aged 12 years, featuring vanilla, cherry, and maple syrup richness.
• Old Charter Oak Chinkapin Oak (45% ABV) – Caramel, baking spices, and a touch of mint with a warm finish.
• Old Charter 13-Year-Old Proprietor’s Reserve (45% ABV) – Balanced dried fruits, spice, and oak with a lingering sweetness.

Benchmark

Originally a Seagram’s brand, Benchmark was acquired by Buffalo Trace in 1992 as an entry-level bourbon. Named after the surveyor marks left by early pioneers, it offers affordable and reliable whiskey expressions, from standard to higher-proof editions.

Notable Bottles:

• Benchmark Old No. 8 (40% ABV) – Caramel and stone fruit with a smooth, tobacco-tinged finish.
• Benchmark Top Floor (43% ABV) – Light citrus and butterscotch with a well-rounded, mellow character.
• Benchmark Small Batch (45% ABV) – Vanilla and oak with hints of leather and honey, leading to a smooth finish.

What is the Most Affordable Buffalo Trace Whisky?

What sets it apart from other whisky brands?