Buffalo Trace
America's Most Storied Bourbon Distillery
The distillery's origins trace to 1773 when Hancock Lee began distilling on the site — before America was even a country. Over the centuries, it changed hands and names multiple times (Old Fire Copper, George T. Stagg), before becoming Buffalo Trace in 1999.
During Prohibition (1920–1933), Buffalo Trace was one of only four distilleries in America permitted to continue production — solely for 'medicinal purposes,' of course. This unbroken production run means they never lost their yeast cultures or institutional knowledge, giving them a continuity few distilleries can claim.
The Story
Founded 1773
Today, Buffalo Trace is famous for its experimental programme. Over 10,000 experimental barrels are currently ageing in the warehouses, testing variables like unusual grain recipes, infrared light exposure, and even playing music to the barrels. Most experiments fail. The successes become legends.
The Buffalo Trace Style
Buffalo Trace produces multiple mash bills (grain recipes), each creating a distinct whisky profile. Mash Bill #1 (used for Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare) is lower in rye, delivering a sweeter, more approachable bourbon. Mash Bill #2 (used for Blanton's and Elmer T. Lee) is higher in rye, offering more spice and complexity.
Kentucky's extreme seasons are critical: searing summers cause bourbon to expand deep into the charred oak, extracting caramel and vanilla. Freezing winters pull it back out. This annual breathing cycle is what gives bourbon its distinctive sweetness and colour in a fraction of the time scotch needs.
Signature Notes
Eagle Rare 10 Year Old
Buffalo Trace's flagship bourbon is exceptional value, but Eagle Rare takes it further — 10 years of ageing adds depth, complexity, and a rich toffee character that punches well above its price point. One of the best bourbons under $40.
Whiskies from Buffalo Trace
15 expressions in our collection · Average rating: 4.5
Visiting Buffalo Trace
Buffalo Trace offers free tours — one of the best deals in American spirits tourism. The grounds are a National Historic Landmark.
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