In the wise words of SLJ – “HOLD ON TO YOUR BUTTS“…Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY) dropped a bomb of a release announcement this week with its first ever The Prohibition Collection: an annual limited-edition, multi-bottle collection honoring the whiskeys that were legally produced and sold at the distillery during arguably the most contentious time […]
In the wise words of SLJ – “HOLD ON TO YOUR BUTTS“…Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY) dropped a bomb of a release announcement this week with its first ever The Prohibition Collection: an annual limited-edition, multi-bottle collection honoring the whiskeys that were legally produced and sold at the distillery during arguably the most contentious time period in alcohol history.
Known then as the George T. Stagg Distillery, the debut release tributes five Prohibition Era-brands that have, until now, disappeared: Old Stagg, Golden Wedding, Three Feathers, Walnut Hill and George T. Stagg Spiritus Frumenti.
From 1920 to 1933, the production, sale and transportation of alcohol was banned in the United States due to the ratification of the 18th amendment to the United States Constitution, an era known as Prohibition. Purchasing alcohol was only legal with a medical prescription. At the time, many doctors believed spirits to be a cure for a wide variety of ailments. As such, the U.S. Government granted licenses to six distilleries to bottle medicinal whiskey: one of those distilleries was the George T. Stagg Distillery in Frankfort, KY. Known today as Buffalo Trace Distillery, it is the longest continually-operating distillery in America.
Inaugural 5 Bottle Collection:
The inaugural Prohibition Collection features five whiskeys, each created in tribute to a historic brand that was housed at the Buffalo Trace Distillery site during Prohibition:
• Old Stagg, a barrel-proof (132.4 proof), uncut and unfiltered whiskey featuring an oaky, vanilla aroma; sweet and mellow taste with notes of leather and dark cherries and a smooth vanilla finish. Old Stagg was originally created in honor of former owner George T. Stagg and replaced O.F.C. Bourbon as the Distillery’s flagship brand. Today, the brand lives on as Stagg and George T. Stagg, both barrel proof whiskeys that have their roots in this Prohibition era brand.
• Golden Wedding, a 107-proof rye whiskey that has heavy rye on the nose; a grainy, herbal taste with notes of dill pickle and rye; and a spicy, smokey finish with a hint of banana. The brand, which dates back to 1869, was originally produced by Schenley Distilling at the Joseph S. Finch Distillery in Pennsylvania. During Prohibition, its bottling was split between Schenley’s Pennsylvania distillery and the George T. Stagg Distillery. In the late 1940’s, the brand was moved to Schenley’s distillery in Canada and would become a Canadian whiskey before ceasing to exist in the late 20th century.
• Three Feathers, a 100-proof, bottled-in-bond whiskey created by Buffalo Trace Master Blender Drew Mayville. Dating back to at least 1812, Three Feathers was first advertised as a luxurious rye before becoming a bonded and then a blended whiskey. Today’s recreation presents a vanilla, charred oak aroma with stone and light tropical fruit taste, and smokey, caramel and a slight cocoa finish.
• Walnut Hill, a 90-proof high-rye bourbon featuring a slightly citrus aroma with light corn and oak notes; sweet molasses, stone fruit and vanilla taste; and a smokey, woodsy finish. This historic spirit was bottled by the George T. Stagg Distillery during Prohibition with production overseen by President Albert Blanton.
• George T. Stagg Distillery Spiritus Frumenti, a 110-proof wheated bourbon honoring the medicinal whiskey produced at the George T. Stagg Distillery. “Spiritus Frumenti,” which translates as “Spirit of the Grain” in Latin, existed as a generic name for medicinal whiskey during Prohibition. Tasting notes include an aroma of caramelized brown sugar; fruity yet floral taste with notes of cherry and oak; and finishes with vanilla, wheat and citrus.
“We stand behind our motto, ‘Honor Tradition, Embrace Change’,” says Harlen Wheatley, Buffalo Trace Master Distiller. “Each of these brands disappeared slowly in the years after Prohibition, but they were integral to our survival. Without them, today there would be no Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare or Weller bourbons. The Prohibition Collection is a tribute to these great whiskeys from our past.”
“At Buffalo Trace Distillery, we build brands based on real, authentic stories firmly rooted in the rich history of excellent whiskey making in America,” says Andrew Duncan, Global Brand Director for Buffalo Trace Distillery. “When we discovered these brands – and others – in our distillery’s history, we could not wait to bring them back to life and tell their stories again. By aging and selling barrels from numerous distilleries all over the country, the Buffalo Trace Distillery site played a key role in keeping American Whiskey alive during one of the most unique periods in the history of the spirits industry.”
The entire collection is housed in a custom wooden display case, with each of the five 375ml bottles heavily-inspired by their Prohibition Era packaging and original bottle size: even the back cartons feature the cut-out for doctors to apply the prescription for medicinal whiskey, without which one could not legally purchase alcohol.
The Prohibition Collection will be rolling out in limited quantities to its distributor network, which will ship to select retailers, bars and restaurants across the United States as of October 2023 at a suggested retail price of $999.99 (five 375ml bottles); state taxes will vary per market.
Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee. Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is a National Historic Landmark as well as is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 40 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Its George T. Stagg was named World Whiskey of the Year for 2022 and its Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye was named 2nd Finest Whiskey in the World for 2022. Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.
Some “jolly good” and interesting news today from Buffalo Trace. They’re taking the visitor experience across the pond to the land of London. Per their website, OPENING DATE listed as “LATE 2023”. Here is the PRESS RELEASE for more details: Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY) distiller of some of the most sought-after whiskeys in the […]
Some “jolly good” and interesting news today from Buffalo Trace. They’re taking the visitor experience across the pond to the land of London. Per their website, OPENING DATE listed as “LATE 2023”.
Here is the PRESS RELEASE for more details:
Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY) distiller of some of the most sought-after whiskeys in the world including Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare, Sazerac Rye, W.L. Weller, and Pappy Van Winkle, today announces the forthcoming opening of Buffalo Trace Distillery London, a first-of-its-kind American whiskey experience at 32-33 Long Acre in the highly coveted Covent Garden area of London in late 2023.
“Buffalo Trace Distillery’s relentless commitment to quality aging and distilling has cultivated fans around the globe,” said Jake Wenz, CEO and President at Buffalo Trace Distillery. “Buffalo Trace Distillery London is the first home for our American whiskeys outside of Kentucky, USA, and we are honored to put down roots in the United Kingdom. Many spirits consumers are more familiar with bourbon’s global whiskey counterparts, and Buffalo Trace Distillery London aims to offer a space to learn more about – and hopefully, fall in love with – our bourbon whiskey. We are excited to share our pursuit of the world’s best whiskey with all those interested in London and beyond.”
Buffalo Trace Distillery London will invite spirits enthusiasts to taste the best of what American whiskey has to offer while introducing them to the storied history and authenticity of the third oldest distillery in the world and oldest continually operating distillery in the United States. Featuring an immersive, sensorial experience that brings a taste of Kentucky, the homeplace of Buffalo Trace Distillery, to London, guests will embark on a narrative journey culminating in an exclusive tasting experience at one of two inspiring bars.
“For over 200 years, our Distillery has been defined by a dedication to one craft: making the finest American whiskey,” said Andrew Duncan, Global Brand Director, Buffalo Trace Distillery. “In the heart of Bourbon Country in Frankfort, Kentucky, Buffalo Trace Distillery has built a generation of enthusiasts, one at a time, by showcasing the timeless craft of whiskey making alongside a sharp focus on experimentation and innovation. Our London location will bring that genuine, authentic experience to a new generation of global fans, allowing them to discover all that American Whiskey and the award-winning brands of Buffalo Trace Distillery have to offer.”
What To Expect: On-site Tasting Experiences
FIRST TASTE EXPERIENCE: Guests visiting Buffalo Trace Distillery London can select from one of two tasting experiences. The first offering – Taste of the Trace– will feature a guided tasting of three outstanding expressions from Buffalo Trace Distillery’s core product lineup:
Buffalo Trace Bourbon
Sazerac Rye
Bourbon Cream
Option of a Buffalo and Ginger Ale cocktail sample.
SECOND TASTE EXPERIENCE: Tradition & Change: Crafting the Most Awarded American Whiskey – will feature a selection of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s premium expression lineup, including:
White Dog Mash #1
Buffalo Trace Bourbon
Eagle Rare 10-Year-Old
E.H. Taylor Small Batch
Small pour of a Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned.
PRICING: Tastings will range in price depending on selection, up to £29.99.
“Whether you’re an existing fan of American whiskey, or if the category is entirely new to you, we’re confident Buffalo Trace Distillery London will offer an experience and a pour that will delight every palate,” said Duncan.
The location of Buffalo Trace Distillery London has been completely renovated to create a guest-first experience aimed at attracting Londoners and tourists alike. The 2,000-square-foot space will pay homage to Buffalo Trace’s legendary bourbon craftsmanship with special finishes and custom materials that evoke the essence of the Distillery in Kentucky.
In the retail store, fans will be able to purchase whiskey bottles and unique merchandise – in fact, some of the merchandise can only be found at Buffalo Trace Distillery London. Rarer whiskey offerings from Buffalo Trace will also be offered during special surprise times throughout the initial opening months.
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED: Reservations are required to secure a tasting appointment at Buffalo Trace Distillery London. Prebooking is highly encouraged and can be arranged via BuffaloTraceDistillery.co.uk. Reservation appointments will open up in the next few weeks.
In the meantime, fans can join the waitlist via the website to be the first to know once bookings are available. Guests will also have the option of ‘walking in’ and inquiring about availability in-person, appointments of which will be granted on a first come, first served basis. Buffalo Trace Distillery London looks forward to welcoming guests from the UK and around the globe beginning later this year.
PRESS RELEASE From Buffalo Trace Distillery Buffalo Trace Distillery Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley and 11x American Country Music Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician Chris Stapleton (who was born just down the road from the Distillery in Lexington, KY) are partnering to create a new-to-world whiskey brand: Traveller Whiskey. A first-of-its-kind collaboration from Buffalo Trace Distillery, […]
Buffalo Trace Distillery Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley and 11x American Country Music Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician Chris Stapleton (who was born just down the road from the Distillery in Lexington, KY) are partnering to create a new-to-world whiskey brand: Traveller Whiskey.
A first-of-its-kind collaboration from Buffalo Trace Distillery, Traveller was inspired by the belief that good whiskey is a lot like a good song… it requires no explanation, and you can simply settle in and enjoy without pressure or pretense.
Buffalo Trace Distillery. Courtesy
Traveller will be proudly blended under Harlen Wheatley’s expert supervision and bottled at Buffalo Trace Distillery. Bringing together the collective artistry of Stapleton and Wheatley, dozens of blends were considered on the journey to find the chosen recipe for Traveller.
“In creating Traveller, we tried over 50 different recipes, experimenting, testing, and adjusting until we found a complex and approachable flavor profile worthy of the whiskey drinker who will enjoy it. In the end, there was one clear winner – Blend No. 40 – that everyone agreed was worthy to be Traveller Whiskey,” said Wheatley.
Tasting details and product information will be available later in the year, with the whiskey slated to be widely released beginning in early 2024.
Buffalo Trace Distillery has honored Daniel Weller – the ‘forefather of American whiskey’ and grandfather to William Larue (WL) Weller, who was the first to sell a wheated bourbon in Kentucky – with a new range of bourbons showcasing wheat varieties. Buffalo Trace plans to launch a new limited edition entry every other year in […]
Buffalo Trace Distillery has honored Daniel Weller – the ‘forefather of American whiskey’ and grandfather to William Larue (WL) Weller, who was the first to sell a wheated bourbon in Kentucky – with a new range of bourbons showcasing wheat varieties. Buffalo Trace plans to launch a new limited edition entry every other year in the newly created series.
It was actually Daniel’s father, Johannes Weller, who started the Weller family on the pathway to the business when he originally distilled rye whiskey for currency, Daniel followed suit and when Daniel died in 1807, his son, Samuel, carried on the family pseudo-business before passing on to his son, William, who properly founded the alcohol wholesale business, WL Weller & Sons.
Buffalo Trace Distillery’s inaugural Daniel Weller Emmer Wheat bourbon was aged for nearly 12 years and made with Emmer wheat, [a ‘rare’ ancient Egyptian grain mainly used in beer and bread], bottled at 47% alcohol by volume [94 proof] and is said to offer notes of caramel, cinnamon, hazelnut, honey and orange zest.
Buffalo Trace Distillery Daniel Weller Emmer Wheat is being made available for $500 per 750ml bottle [which comes with a compass stopper that, once opened, reveals coordinates pinpointing the location of Daniel’s farm near Botland, Kentucky].
The IWC (International Whisky Competition) just released its 2023 winners ranging from all corners and categories around the whisk(e)y globe. One Bourbon Country based distillery in particular wracked up the winners hardware from Region USA. Hint: “Oh give me a home, where the ___ roam”. You guessed it, Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY) swept a […]
The IWC (International Whisky Competition) just released its 2023 winners ranging from all corners and categories around the whisk(e)y globe. One Bourbon Country based distillery in particular wracked up the winners hardware from Region USA. Hint: “Oh give me a home, where the ___ roam”. You guessed it, Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY) swept a number of categories and scored 2 of the 3 highest rated American Whiskies in the whole shebang. More about the American Whiskey winners shortly, for now, we look at the competition itself and what makes it worth looking at.
About IWC – What Makes It Relevant?
ONLY 3 WINNERS per each category: Gold, Silver, Bronze. We like that a lot. Creates less winners thus putting more value on the selected winners.
Double blind style. No judge awareness for BRAND nor PROOF (unless cask strength)
Impressive collection of judges. Important to always look into who is behind the judges box. To see all IWC judges, CLICK HERE.
CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT: Judging takes place in one setting under one roof. No food or drink (besides water). 8 min per sample.
All Regional Categories
Scotland
USA
Canada
Ireland
Japan
World (all other)
USA: American Whiskey Winners
Picking up where we left off earlier. Yeah, so there was no shortage on Sazerac made products in the winners circle. George T. Stagg receiving the highest American Whiskey score (94.4) and its younger sibling Stagg, formerly called Stagg Jr., at 93.4. These were the only American Whiskies with ratings placed in the overall Global Top 10.
Of the first five categories listed below, Sazerac grabbed 12 out of 15 medals, snatching Gold in each category.
Per IWC’s COO, Sebastien Gavillet, there were ballpark 200 American Whiskey labels entered in the competition, for context.
We know, some of you are over it. Meaning chasing or even hearing about labels that have become near impossible to find. With that in mind, it feels notable and even somewhat validating that these marks came from a judging panelist assembly with solid rules in place. Experienced pallets going at it blindly. Say what you want about the buyer’s landscape, but in a blind competition, these whiskies stood out for a reason.
Other Takeaways: Stranahan’s getting the third highest American Whiskey score with their Sherry Cask finish. New face Good Trouble Bourbon grabbing Silver for Best Small Batch Whiskey. Paul Sutton Bourbon grabbing Silver for Best Single Barrel and a 91.3 score. Uncle Nearest scoring 1st, 2nd 3rd (tie) for Rye.
Best American Whiskey (All Categories) 1st Place: George T. Stagg – 94.4 Pts 2nd Place: Stagg – Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – 93.4 Pts 3rd Place: Stranahan’s Sherry Cask – 93.33 Pts
Best Bourbon Whiskey 1st Place: George T. Stagg – 94.4 Pts 2nd Place: Stagg – Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – 93.4 Pts 3rd Place: William Larue Weller – 93.28 Pts
Best Bourbon Whiskey 10 Year and Over 1st Place: Eagle Rare 10 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – 90.5 Pts 2nd Place: Eagle Rare 17 Year Old – Fall 2022 – 90.3 Pts 3rd Place: Sazerac 18 Year Old – Fall 2022 – 90.2 Pts
Best Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey (Full Proof) 1st Place: George T. Stagg – 94.4 Pts 2nd Place: Stagg – Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – 93.4 Pts 3rd Place: William Larue Weller – 93.28 Pts
Best Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey 1st Place: 1792 Small Batch – 90 Pts 2nd Place: Good Trouble Bourbon – Small Batch – 89.13 Pts 3rd Place: Jefferson’s Very Small Batch – 89.1 Pts
Best American Blended Whiskey 1st Place: Five Trail Cask Finish – 91.6 Pts 2nd Place: Five Trail Barrel Proof – 89.5 Pts 3rd Place: Bardstown Bourbon Company Discovery Series #10 – 88.8 Pts
Best Barrel Finish / Special Cask Whiskey 1st Place: Stranahan’s Sherry Cask – 93.33 Pts 2nd Place: Olde Stogie – Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Armagnac & Tawny Port Casks – 92.8 Pts 3rd Place: Olde Raleigh Whiskey Society Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in a Honey Barrel – 92.75 Pts
Best Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey 1st Place: Maker’s Mark Private Select Mustang’s #5 – 91.6 Pts 2nd Place: Paul Sutton Bourbon – 91.3 Pts 3rd Place: Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel – 87.8 Pts
Best American Single Malt Whiskey 1st Place: Stranahan’s Sherry Cask – 93.33 Pts 2nd Place: Stranahan’s Mountain Angel 10 year – 92.9 Pts 3rd Place: Brother Justus American Single Malt Cold-Peated Whiskey – 90.88 Pts
Best American Corn Whiskey 1st Place: Rockfish Whiskey
Scotland wreaking havoc (meh, lol) and Taiwan’s lone horse Kavalan Distillery really doing the work. Kavalan grabbing overall Distillery Of The Year award.
2023 Whiskies Scoring Over 90 Points
1.) Gordon & MacPhail Connoisseurs Choice 1989 Mortlach 31-Year-Old – 54.2% ABV – 97.1 Pts 2.) Kavalan Solist Port Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky – 96.95 Pts 3.) Gordon & MacPhail Connoisseurs Choice Caol Ila 1997 23-Year-Old – 59.9% ABV – 95.9 Pts 4.) Kavalan Triple Sherry Cask Single Malt Whisky – 95.5 Pts 5.) George T. Stagg – 95.3 Pts 6.) Kavalan Distillery Reserve Madeira Cask Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky – 94.9 Pts 7.) Kavalan Distillery Reserve Peated Malt Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky – 94.8 Pts 8.) Glenmorangie The Accord – 12 Year Old – 94.6 Pts 9.) Stagg – Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – 94.4 Pts 10.) Ardbeg BizzareBQ – 94.2 Pts 11.) Kavalan Classic Single Malt Whisky – 94 Pts 12.) Dewar’s Double Double – 37 Years Old – 93.8 Pts 13.) Stauning KAOS – Triple Malt Whisky – 93.75 Pts 13.) Kavalan Solist ex-Bourbon Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky – 93.75 Pts 15.) Ardbeg Corryvreckan – 93.7 Pts 16.) Timah Double Peated Blended Whiskey – 93.4 Pts 17.) Kavalan Podium Single Malt Whisky – 93.38 Pts 18.) Whisky entered for evaluation purpose only – 93.35 Pts 19.) Stranahan’s Sherry Cask – 93.33 Pts 20.) Whisky entered for evaluation purpose only – 93.28 Pts 20.) William Larue Weller – 93.28 Pts 22.) Royal Brackla OLOROSO – 12 Year Old – 93.2 Pts 23.) Stranahan’s Mountain Angel 10 year – 92.9 Pts 24.) Dewar’s Double Double – 21 Years Old – 92.85 Pts 25.) Olde Stogie – Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Armagnac & Tawny Port Casks – 92.8 Pts 26.) Maker’s Mark 101 – 92.77 Pts 27.) Olde Raleigh Whiskey Society Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in a Honey Barrel – 92.75 Pts 28.) Uncle Nearest Single Barrel Whiskey – Barrel #028 -92.68 Pts 29.) Dewar’s Double Double – 32 Years Old – 92.63 Pts 30.) The Glenlivet 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch; The Sample Room Collection – 92.58 Pts 31.) Dewar’s Portuguese Smooth – 8 Years Old – 92.53 Pts 31.) Benromach 15 – 92.53 Pts 33.) Glenmorangie The Tribute – 92.45 Pts 33.) Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban – 92.45 Pts 35.) Aberlour Casg Annamh – 92.4 Pts 36.) Ardbeg An Oa – 92.3 Pts 37.) Aberlour A’Bundah – 92.28 Pts 38.) Aberfeldy 21 – Red Wine Cask St. Emillion – 92.15 Pts 39.) Aberlour 18 – 92.13 Pts 40.) Aberfeldy Madeira Cask – 21 Year Old – 92.08 Pts 41.) Aberlour 12 – 92 Pts 42.) Imperial 12 Year Old Blended Scotch – 91.95 Pts 43.) Ardbeg Wee Beastie – 5 Year Old – 91.93 Pts 44.) Glenmorangie Nectar d’Or – 12 Year Old – 91.88 Pts 44.) Kavalan Concertmaster Sherry Cask Finish Single Malt Whisky – 91.88 Pts 46.) Dewar’s French Smooth – 8 Years Old – 91.83 Pts 47.) 1792 Full Proof- 91.73 Pts 48.) Five Trail Cask Finish – 91.6 Pts 48.) Maker’s Mark Private Select Mustang’s #5 – 91.6 Pts 50.) Hatozaki Small Batch – 91.50 Pts 51.) Ardbeg 8 Year Old for Discussion – 91.43 Pts 52.) Amrut – Indian Single Malt Cask Strength – 91.33 Pts 52.) Giant Texas Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey – 91.33 Pts 52.) Paul Sutton Bourbon – 91.33 Pts 55.) Dewar’s White Label – 91.3 Pts 56.) Kavalan Distillery Select No.1 Single Malt Whisky – 91.25 Pts 57.) Glenmorangie The Cadboll Estate Batch #3 – 91.2 Pts 58.) Dewar’s Double Double – 36 Years Old – 91.18 Pts 59.) Ardbeg Uigeadail – 91.1 Pts 60.) King Car Conductor Single Malt Whisky – 91.08 Pts 61.) Ardbeg Heavy Vapours Committee Release – 91.05 Pts 61.) Uncle Nearest Master Blend Edition Batch 017 – 91.05 Pts 63.) Dewar’s 19 Years Old – The Champions Edition – 123 U.S Open – 91 Pts 64.) Dewar’s Double Double 30 – 30 Years Old – 90.93 Pts 65.) Brother Justus American Single Malt Cold-Peated Whiskey – 90.88 Pts 66.) The Glenlivet 25 Year Old Single Malt Scotch; The Sample Room Collection – 90.85 Pts 66.) Glenmorangie Lasanta – 90.85 Pts 68.) Ardbeg Heavy Vapours General Release -90.8 Pts 69.) Aberlour A’bunadh Alba – 90.78 Pts 69.) The Glenlivet 14 Year Old Single Malt Scotch – 90.78 Pts 71.) Godawan Single Malt Rich and Rounded Artisan Whisky – 90.75 Pts 72 ) Royal Brackla OLOROSO – PALO CORTADO & PERDO XIMENEZ – 21 Year Old – 90.7 Pts 72.) Dewar’s Ilegal Smooth – 8 Years Old – 90.7 Pts 74.) Dewar’s Japanese Smooth – 8 Years Old – 90.48 Pts 74.) Whisky entered for evaluation purpose only – 90.48 Pts 76.) W.L. Weller C.Y.P.B. – Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – 90.45 Pts 76.) Eagle Rare 10 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – 90.45 Pts 78.) The Glenlivet 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch – 90.43 Pts 79.) The Taoscán by The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. – 90.4 Pts 80.) Ardbeg Smoketrails Batch #1 – 90.25 Pts 80.) Eagle Rare 17 Year Old – Fall 2022 – 90.25 Pts 82.) Dewar’s Caribbean Smooth – 8 Years Old – 90.23 Pts 83.) Dewar’s 15 Years Old – 90.2 Pts 84.) Sazerac 18 Year Old – Fall 2022 – 90.18 Pts 85.) Aberlour 16 – 90.15 Pts 85.) Tenjaku Blended Whisky – 90.15 Pts 87.) W.L. Weller Antique – Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – 90.13 Pts 88.) Stranahan’s Diamond Peak – 90.08 Pts 89.) Dewar’s Double Double 26 – 26 Years Old – 90.05 Pts 90.) Glenmorangie Elementa – 90.03 Pts 90.) 1792 Small Batch – 90.03 Pts 92.) Bushmills Black Bush – 90 Pts 92.) Ardbeg 25 Year Old – 90 Pts 92.) Aberfeldy Madeira Cask – 16 Year Old – 90 Pts
The ultimate bragging rights lay at your fingertips – the chance to buy your very own barrel of whiskey from Buffalo Trace Distillery! How is this possible? Their “SINGLE BARREL SELECT” program which is open to any Joe/Jane Q consumer (21yrs and older). Here’s how it works. HOW TO ENTER “SINGLE BARREL SELECT” PROGRAM To […]
The ultimate bragging rights lay at your fingertips – the chance to buy your very own barrel of whiskey from Buffalo Trace Distillery! How is this possible? Their “SINGLE BARREL SELECT” program which is open to any Joe/Jane Q consumer (21yrs and older). Here’s how it works.
HOW TO ENTER “SINGLE BARREL SELECT” PROGRAM
To ENTER, just CLICK HERE to their website and then click on “SIGN UP”. Very easy. You’re in!…As noted, you MUST ENTER by June 30th to be eligible for the July 26th drawings which include Sazerac Rye, Blanton’s, Eagle Rare, and Buffalo Trace Bourbon.
For a more thorough rundown on the program and the inner workings – CLICK HERE.
DEADLINE TO ENTER NEXT DRAWING: June 30th, 2023
DRAWING TAKES PLACE LIVE: July 26th, 6:15pm – 6:45pm EDT
Buffalo Trace Distillery dropped a bombshell on the release world today with the news of its “Daniel Weller” Experimental Release. Per the brand, this is an experimental line of wheated bourbons exploring the impact of different strains of wheat, inspired by and named after the trailblazer of the Weller family. Daniel Weller is the grandfather […]
Buffalo Trace Distillery dropped a bombshell on the release world today with the news of its “Daniel Weller” Experimental Release. Per the brand, this is an experimental line of wheated bourbons exploring the impact of different strains of wheat, inspired by and named after the trailblazer of the Weller family.
Daniel Weller is the grandfather William Larue (W.L.) Weller. Inspired by Daniel’s pioneering spirit, Buffalo Trace Distillery plans to release one expression every other year as each experiment is deemed ready for bottling. The inaugural release focuses on Emmer wheat – an ancient Egyptian grain thought to be one of the first wheats utilized by humans that’s rarely seen in modern-day stills – a purposeful first experiment from the world’s original wheated bourbon.
Aged for nearly 12 years and bottled at 94 proof, the nose is fresh and nutty, with notes of orange zest, hazelnut, cinnamon and caramel; the palate a well-rounded blend of bold oak, sweet honey and orchard fruits with a complex oak-forward finish complemented by baking spice and leather notes.
The following copy is directly from today’s PRESS RELEASE by Sazerac:
While William Larue (W.L.) Weller’s place in whiskey history is widely known as one of the first to sell a “wheated” bourbon in Kentucky, his grandfather’s story has yet to be shared. After fighting in The Revolutionary War, Daniel Weller embarked on a flatboat voyage down the Ohio River with his wife and children, ultimately settling in Kentucky in 1794. Following in his father Johannes Weller’s footsteps, who distilled rye whiskey used as currency in early American barter economy, he soon began producing whiskey and leased his still to proprietors like Jacob Hirsch to supplement his income.
When Daniel passed away in 1807, he left no will, requiring his son Samuel to purchase his stills and equipment to continue the family legacy, which he would ultimately pass down to his son William Larue, founder of W.L. Weller & Sons.
The Daniel Weller experimental line is inspired by Daniel and his pioneering spirit, with plans to release one limited expression every other year, when each experiment is deemed ready for bottling by Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley. The inaugural release is made with Emmer wheat, an ancient Egyptian grain that’s rarely seen in modern-day stills, and mainly used to make beer and bread. Archaeologists have found evidence of Emmer wheat domestication over 6,000 years ago, and its symbol is etched into the Egyptian pyramids.
“We began this experiment to see how one of the original, long-forgotten wheat strains would taste in our wheated bourbon,” says Harlen Wheatley, Buffalo Trace Master Distiller. “We’ve found it offers just a slightly – yet delightfully – different taste that brings us into a new bourbon territory. It will taste like Weller, but with distinct, unique notes that make it stand apart from the other Weller whiskies we’ve released to date.”
The mashbill is not the only variable in this experiment. It was distilled in the E.H. Taylor, Jr. Microstill, named after the father of the modern bourbon industry, which Harlen spent two years custom-designing. A combination pot and column still, the Microstill is both versatile and innovative, allowing the team to experiment with very small batches without interrupting main production capabilities.
“At Buffalo Trace Distillery, we are appreciative that many of our brands have found a place in whiskey culture and we continue to invest in making more whiskey to meet the demand. However, our motto is ‘Honor Tradition, Embrace Change’ because we believe the world’s best whiskey has not yet been created,” says Andrew Duncan, Global Brand Director for Buffalo Trace Distillery. “We will continue to experiment with multiple variables that affect the final taste profile – grains, techniques, aging, barrels, and more – in pursuit of that ultimate goal. When an experiment ‘graduates’ to be released under a beloved brand like Weller, it’s a reflection of our confidence in the whiskey.”
In homage to Daniel’s pioneering journey, each release from the Daniel Weller series is packaged in a clear 750ml glass bottle with a unique compass stopper. Once opened, underneath the stopper one will find the coordinates pinpointing the location of Daniel’s farm near Botland, KY.
Daniel Weller Emmer Wheat will be rolling out in limited quantities to its distributor network, which will ship to select retailers, bars and restaurants across the United States as of June 2023 at a suggested retail price of $499.99 (750ml); state taxes will vary per market.
It joins the Weller lineup of Weller Special Reserve, Weller Antique 107, Weller 12 Year Old, Weller Full Proof, Weller C.Y.P.B. (“Craft Your Perfect Bourbon”), and Weller Single Barrel as well as William Larue Weller, which is released each fall as part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection.
Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY), the mighty maker of whiskey nestled on the enchanted banks of the Kentucky River, recently announced the latest innovation from their ongoing Experimental Collection – Buffalo Trace Experimental Peated Bourbon, a Kentucky Straight Bourbon made with smoked peated malt. Riding the coattails of BTD’s recent Old Charter Oak “Spanish Oak” release, […]
Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY), the mighty maker of whiskey nestled on the enchanted banks of the Kentucky River, recently announced the latest innovation from their ongoing Experimental Collection – Buffalo Trace Experimental Peated Bourbon, a Kentucky Straight Bourbon made with smoked peated malt.
Riding the coattails of BTD’s recent Old Charter Oak “Spanish Oak” release, it feels right and appropriate to provide context to the importance of The Experimental Collection.
A Deep Dive Look at Experimental Collection
The Experimental Collection (EC) debuted 17 years ago in 2006 as the upcoming Peated Bourbon is the 26th expression. The famed distillery would need a trophy vault larger than Ft. Knox to house all its whiskey awards. The backbone of its colossal achievements, the secret sauce of its success lies in its mantra – Honor Tradition. Embrace Change. This buffalo walks like it talks.
Look back at the inaugural 3 releases of EC in 2006:
French Oak Barrel – aged ten years in French Oak.
Twice Barreled – initially aged 8+ years, then finished in a new charred white oak barrel.
Fire Pot Barrel – Aged in a barrel that was heated to 102 degrees Fahrenheit for 23 minutes.
The inaugural three releases had a primary focus – THE BARREL. Each release isolating its own variable in demonstrating the powerful effects that the oak vessel has on final flavor outcome. Of particular note “TWICE BARRELED”. Sounds a lot like Double Barreled, doesn’t it? That seems to be a consumer darling these days. BTD initially aged it’s standard #2 mashbill for 8 eight years, then aged it an additional 8 years in a new white oak barrel.
The EC is vastly impressive and overall mind blowing. The lengths of which BTD meticulously embarked to demonstrate the power and might of the individual pillars of whiskey flavor: Wood (aging vessel), Secondary Finishing, Mashbill, Barrel Entry Proof. These experiments started way back in the early 90’s. A time when American Whiskey was viewed more appropriately as a jester rather than a king.
The goal of EC is to continue accumulating a deeper understanding of whiskey’s flavor dynamics. BTD’s intense obsession and disciplined focus on experimentation is not a new thing and is certainly paramount in its display of whiskey making excellence. It’s really cool in offering the consumer an insider’s look at invaluable R&D.
And per the brand, as in real life, not every experiment is a winner worthy of bottling hence the true limited availability of EC.
“Peated Bourbon” 26th Release
It felt necessary to provide more overall context to EC, given its backstory dates back decades ago. Now, switching gears to the current EC Release – Peated Bourbon.
QUICK FACTS
Mashbill: used smoked peated malt to its standard rye bourbon mashbill
Age: 10 years in new charred white oak barrels
SRP: $46.99 (375ml)
Availability: May nationwide; select retailers, bars, restaurants
“The Experimental Collection is not about breaking the rules of bourbon; in fact, 95% of our experiments stay within the confines of traditional methods of making whiskey. We conduct this research to better understand the variables that affect our final flavor profiles,” says Harlen Wheatley, Buffalo Trace’s Master Distiller. “We were eager to experiment with peat to see how the grain influenced our mashbill from a recipe perspective. We anticipated it providing the perfect hint of smoke, just enough to compliment the sweet and spicy notes from the rye, and I’m happy to report our hypothesis was correct.”
This latest outcome from the Experimental Collection has proven successful, resulting in a one-of-a-kind Kentucky straight bourbon subbing smoked peated malt as a flavoring grain for traditional barley, which lends just a hint of smoke to the revered rye bourbon mashbill. The experimental distillate aged for nearly ten years in new charred white oak casks, undergoing regular spot checks by Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley and his team before bottling at 90 proof. The nose is smoky and nutty, with hints of leather, mahogany and cacao beans; the influence of the peated malt provides a palate of light smoke, brown butter and a sweet toffee finish.
While common in Scotch and other global whisky categories, peated malt is an ingredient rarely found in American whiskey production. Wheatley hypothesized that if the peat character shined through distillation as they anticipated, the smokey flavor would add an extra complexity to Buffalo Trace’s traditional rye bourbon mashbill, resulting in a spirit appealing to connoisseurs that appreciate a traditional – yet completely unique – sipping whiskey.
Buffalo Trace Experimental Peated Bourbon will be rolling out in limited quantities to its distributor network who in turn will ship to select retailers and restaurants across the United States as of May 2023. Due to the limited nature of these releases, all expressions from the Experimental Collection are packaged in 375ml bottles and available in extremely limited quantities. Suggested retail pricing is $46.99; state taxes will vary per market. More information on the Experimental Collection series can be found here.
Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY) has just announced the fifth release of its Old Charter Oak series: “Spanish Oak”. Previous four releases include: Mongolian Oak, Chinkapin Oak, Canadian Oak, and French Oak. Quick Facts: 92 Proof SRP $69.99 Available beginning this Spring Perhaps lost in the shuffle of being unarguably the most decorated distillery in […]
Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY) has just announced the fifth release of its Old Charter Oak series: “Spanish Oak”. Previous four releases include: Mongolian Oak, Chinkapin Oak, Canadian Oak, and French Oak.
Quick Facts:
92 Proof
SRP $69.99
Available beginning this Spring
Perhaps lost in the shuffle of being unarguably the most decorated distillery in American Whiskey of recent times is BTD’s veracious appetite for R&D and whiskey experimentation. Projects in the last decade such as the Single Oak Project and the Experimental Collection demonstrate their unquenchable thirst to continue discovering the micro-nuances of whiskey. Breaking down the influential flavor impacting parts of which affect the final taste sum.
Hey, who could blame them for getting a bit content and saying We make Pappy, Blanton’s, BTAC, E.H. Taylor, et et…I think we’re good.
The Old Charter Oak series is an extension of their discovery appetite. The term “Charter” is symbolic for exploring and chartering new discovery territory, if you will.
The Spring 2023 oak tree varietal release explores the use of Spanish Oak (Quercus hispanica). Harvested from the forests of northern Spain, the trees used in this year’s experiment were made into staves that were seasoned outdoors before becoming the aging vessels for this unique whiskey.
Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley provides a nice breakdown of the contrast between traditional American Oak vs Spanish Oak as it applies to whiskey aging.
“The whiskey extracts from the charred oak barrel exciting elements like eugenol, vanillin and whiskey lactone,” said BTD’s master distiller Harlen Wheatley. “American Oak has higher proportions of vanillin and whiskey lactone. Resulting in bourbon with a softer, sweeter taste and notes of vanilla and caramel. Our Spanish Oak, on the other hand, has more eugenol. Meaning drier, spicier notes and flavors like clove are imparted onto the liquid. We specifically wanted to test Spanish Oak as part of this collection because of its connection to sherry, which is known to be a nuttier, fruitier spirit. We were curious how those flavors would impact the taste of whiskey, and we are very pleased with the result.”
Old Charter Oak “Spanish Oak”. Courtesy
Per Sazerac, Old Charter Oak collection honors and celebrates the role of oak in making great whiskey by exploring the various possible taste profiles of whiskey resulting from barrels created from trees grown in different countries, climates, and soil. The oak trees used each year vary by country of origin, species, or U.S. state with some barrels made from century-old trees that grew between 100 to 300 years.
“A common misconception about the distilling process is that bourbon must be aged in new American Oak barrels,” Wheatley continued. “Though most bourbons mature in American White Oak barrels, federal regulations do not specify what type of oak the barrel must be, only that it must be a new, charred oak container. At Buffalo Trace Distillery, we are deeply committed to honoring the traditions of our category but also embracing change and pushing the limits of innovation to see where American whiskey can go in the future. Our Old Charter Oak collection is a superb example of trying new things and offering consumers and fans more ways to enjoy our award-winning portfolio of whiskeys.”
As if you needed another reason to visit the powerhouse whiskey producer Buffalo Trace Distillery, well, now you have it… Resuming and returning this month, iconic Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY) just announced their popular Blanton Arboretum and Botanical Gardens Tour and Tasting. Guests are invited to explore the distillery’s Albert B. Blanton Arboretum, Botanical […]
As if you needed another reason to visit the powerhouse whiskey producer Buffalo Trace Distillery, well, now you have it…
Resuming and returning this month, iconic Buffalo Trace Distillery (Frankfort, KY) just announced their popular Blanton Arboretum and Botanical Gardens Tour and Tasting.
Guests are invited to explore the distillery’s Albert B. Blanton Arboretum, Botanical Gardens, and Bird Sanctuary, which surround Col. Blanton’s historic 1934 residence on the sprawling, picturesque property of Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort — recognized as a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service and as a certified Level II Accredited Arboretum.
Starting April 18th and running through autumn, the complimentary Arboretum and Botanical Gardens Tour and Tasting will welcome garden and bird enthusiastsevery Tuesday at 11 am to be immersed in a unique outdoor educational experience. Guests will enjoy a special guided walking tour of the breathtaking natural beauty of the iconic distillery’s grounds in bloom while scoping for the 100 bird species that grace the facility, recently confirmed by Frankfort Audubon Society. The tour concludes with a sample of Buffalo Trace’s award-winning products.
“Buffalo Trace Distillery is thrilled to open our scenic gardens and bio-diverse sanctuaries up to those who share a love for nature’s majesty and Kentucky’s signature bourbon,” said Dennis Walsh, Homeplace Manager, Buffalo Trace Distillery. “As the days grow longer and our gardens begin to flourish, we look forward to offering a unique bourbon experience to first-time visitors and providing our returning visitors a chance to enjoy the distillery from a new perspective by showcasing our unique horticultural heritage.”
The 75-minute Blanton Arboretum and Botanical Gardens Tour and Tasting includes stairs, as comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. For safety purposes, this tour is unavailable to guests under 12 years old.
HOW TO BOOK YOUR TOUR
Individuals and groups interested in joining an upcoming tour can reserve their spot by emailing reservations@buffalotrace.com.
