History

Ah, Buffalo Trace Distillery! This is one place I’ve been meaning to check out for ages, and finally, I got my chance. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but this bourbon distillery has become one of my favorite places in Kentucky.

For starters, the history of this place is simply fascinating. Did you know that Buffalo Trace has been in operation since 1787? It’s true! The distillery has been making bourbon for over 200 years, and that’s just crazy. It’s like stepping back in time when you walk through the doors, and I felt like I was experiencing something truly special.

I was enticed to tour Buffalo Trace as they have a daily special release to visitors. You may be able to purchase a bottle of Blanton’s, Eagle Rare, or on the rare occasion a bottle of Pappy. This particular day it was Weller Special Reserve.

The Bourbon Tour

But let’s talk about the tour! The staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, and it made the experience even better. I learned all about the history of the distillery, the process of making bourbon, and the different types of bourbon and vodka they make. Yes, they make vodka but that is a story for another time. I was also happy to learn that they use only the finest ingredients, like local limestone-filtered water, and that their bourbon is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of eight years.

One of the highlights of the tour was getting to see the barrell room. It’s like a little piece of heaven for bourbon lovers! They have the equipment from the olden days on how they use to create the barrels. They also show the different charring levels they use prior to putting the bourbon in. The more charred the more the alcohol will soak in the flavor of the barrel. It’s a slow and meticulous process. They take pride in their work, and it shows in the final product.

The Bourbon Tasting

The best part of the tour –of course is the bourbon tasting! I couldn’t wait to dive right in. I was pleasantly surprised by how smooth and delicious each of the bourbons were. The staff was great at explaining the different flavors and notes, and I learned so much about bourbons in general.

I even discovered a new favorite – Weller Special Reserve. This Bourbon is made with a high percentage of wheat, making it a smoother, sweeter alternative to traditional bourbon recipes. On the nose, it has a nice mix of sweet caramel, vanilla, and apples. The inital taste is a burst of sweetness that is well balanced with notes of spice and oak. The finish is long, smooth, and leaves a pleasant warmth in your mouth. It’s the perfect bourbon to enjoy after a long day, or to celebrate a special occasion.

All in all, my visit to Buffalo Trace Distillery was one of the best experiences I’ve had in Kentucky. I learned so much about bourbon, the history of the distillery, and I even discovered a new favorite bourbon. I highly recommend checking out Buffalo Trace if you’re a Bourbon lover, or just looking for a fun and educational experience. You won’t regret it!