Buffalo Trace Distillery Review

The Buffalo Trace Distillery, nestled in the heart of Kentucky, stands as a testament to the rich heritage and enduring tradition of American bourbon making. Established in 1773, this historic distillery has evolved over the centuries to become a cornerstone of the bourbon industry, renowned for its craftsmanship and commitment to quality.

My friends are I recently had the opportunity to visit the distillery and see their beautiful grounds. If you’d like to read about our trip, continue reading. But first, let’s take a look at our bottle reviews of some of their most popular brands!

Buffalo Trace Bottle Reviews

  • Benchmark Bonded

    Benchmark Bonded (Score: 6/10)

    At a budget-friendly price, does this bottle deliver on flavor despite its youthful profile? Explore its nose, palate, finish, and value compared to other budget bourbons.

  • benchmark full proof

    Benchmark Full Proof (Score: 6.75/10)

    Looking for a budget-friendly, high-proof bourbon? This may be it! Our Benchmark Full Proof review covers its flavor profile, price, and how it compares to other Buffalo Trace offerings.

  • buffalo trace bourbon whiskey

    Buffalo Trace (Score: 5.75/10)

    As the namesake of the popular distillery, is Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey worth the hype? Find out if this entry-level bourbon is a good starting point for newcomers.

  • sazerac rye

    Sazerac Rye (Score: 6/10)

    Interested in finding your next budget pour? Sazerac Rye may be the bottle for you. While not the most complex pour, this whiskey review will highlight the areas where this rye shines!

  • eagle rare 10 year

    Eagle Rare (Score: 5/10)

    Let’s discuss Eagle Rare, analyzing its aroma, taste, and finish to determine whether it's worthy of its secondary price and the hunt it often requires — or if you should only pay MSRP.

  • EH Taylor Small Batch

    E.H. Taylor Small Batch (Score: 7.5/10)

    You’ve heard the buzz surrounding E. H. Taylor. Discover why bourbon lovers can't stop raving about its complex flavors. Is the cult-like following justified? Find out in our no BS review!

  • Blanton's Single Barrel

    Blanton's (Score: 6/10)

    Blanton's, a bourbon known for its iconic horse toppers and elusive availability, can definitely be divisive. Learn if it’s worth paying secondary to attain in this review!

  • Blanton's Gold Edition

    Blanton's Gold (Score: 6.5/10)

    Curious if Blanton's Gold Edition lives up to the hype? Our review has the answers. Learn if it’s better than regular Blanton’s and justifies secondary market prices.

  • Blanton's Straight from the barrel

    Blanton's SFTB (Score: 7.5/10)

    Is Blanton's Straight from the Barrel worthy of the hunt or should you just pay secondary prices to attain it? How does it compare to other barrel-proof bourbons?

  • Elmer T Lee Bourbon

    Elmer T Lee (Score 7.5/10)

    Discover the nostalgia and flavor of Elmer T Lee Single Barrel Bourbon in this review. Explore its fruity nose, mellow palate, and lingering finish. Is it worth the hype? Find out here.

  • Weller Full Proof

    Weller Full Proof (Score 8/10)

    Here we sample a local Missouri store pick to see if you should hunt this bourbon at MSRP, or is it worth paying secondary to have a bottle?

  • Weller 12

    Weller 12 (Score 6.75/10)

    Curious if Weller 12 Year Bourbon Whiskey lives up to the hype? Should you hunt this bottle or pay secondary prices? Find out if it's worth the MSRP and beyond.

 A Brief History of Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky

 

Buffalo Trace Distillery's origins trace back to the late 18th century, making it one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the United States. Originally known as the Old Fire Copper Distillery, it was later renamed Buffalo Trace in honor of the ancient buffalo paths that meandered through the region.

The Buffalo Trace name pays homage to the early pioneers who navigated these trails and laid the groundwork for the bourbon industry we know today.

Throughout its storied history, Buffalo Trace has weathered numerous challenges, from Prohibition to economic downturns, yet it has consistently produced high-quality bourbon. The distillery's resilience and dedication to its craft have solidified its reputation as a leader in the bourbon world.

Buffalo Trace Tour Review

Last year, I had the pleasure of touring Buffalo Trace Distillery with a group of friends, and the experience was nothing short of remarkable. The tour offered an immersive look into the distillery's operations and its rich heritage.

Buffalo Trace Tour Review

The property itself is a sight to behold. Set amidst rolling hills and lush landscapes, the distillery's picturesque setting perfectly complements its storied past. The grand architecture of the distillery buildings, combined with the serene Kentucky countryside, creates a captivating atmosphere.

Buffalo Trace Tour Rickhouses

One of the highlights of the tour was experiencing the distinct aroma of the rickhouses. The smell of aging bourbon, with its rich, sweet, and oaky notes, permeates the air and adds an almost magical quality to the visit.

Walking through these rickhouses, you can sense the history and craftsmanship that go into every bottle of Buffalo Trace bourbon.

During the tour, we learned about the distillery's impressive expansion efforts. Buffalo Trace has doubled its production capacity in recent years, reflecting both the growing demand for its products and the distillery's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality.

This expansion ensures that more bourbon enthusiasts can experience the exceptional products Buffalo Trace has to offer.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Trace Distillery stands as a beacon of tradition and excellence in the bourbon industry.

Its rich history, picturesque setting, and commitment to quality make it a must-visit destination for any bourbon enthusiast. The distillery's impressive expansion and dedication to craftsmanship ensure that its legacy will continue to thrive for generations to come.

Whether you're savoring a classic Buffalo Trace Bourbon or indulging in the rare Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve, each product reflects the distillery's enduring passion for creating exceptional bourbon.

Buffalo Trace Tour Barrels