Special whiskey at buffalo trace distillery
Today we talk about Special whiskey at buffalo trace distillery.
If you share my passion for whiskey, then visiting Buffalo Trace Distillery is like stepping into paradise. The rich scent of aged bourbon fills the air as I walk through the historic grounds of one of the most celebrated distilleries in the world. Buffalo Trace is famed for its special whiskey offerings, and it is through these selections that the legacy of American bourbon is celebrated, making it a haven for whiskey enthusiasts like me.
Special Whiskey Selection at Buffalo Trace Distillery
Overview of Special Whiskeys
Buffalo Trace Distillery boasts several prestigious whiskeys, including the highly regarded Blanton¡¯s and Pappy Van Winkle. According to the Distilled Spirits Council, bourbon consumption has risen to over 24 million 9-liter cases in 2022, with Buffalo Trace leading the charge in producing unique small batch and limited edition whiskeys that resonate with collectors and connoisseurs. This trend has reaffirmed the distillery¡¯s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon
Tasting Notes and Availability
When I first tasted Blanton’s, it was like experiencing a burst of flavors. Known for its smooth blend of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of cherry, this bourbon is bottled from a single barrel, which is part of what makes it so unique. Its alcohol content is 93 proof, providing a warming sensation with each sip. However, its rarity means it’s often priced between $65 and $150. The higher price point stems from the limited production, with only around 100,000 bottles released annually.
Eagle Rare 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Flavor Profile and Pairing Suggestions
Eagle Rare is another gem that I can¡¯t get enough of. With its rich, complex flavor profile, I often pick up notes of toffee, almonds, and a touch of oak. This bourbon is aged for a minimum of 10 years, allowing it to develop its distinct characteristics. The recent statistics show that Eagle Rare has received multiple awards, including a double gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. I love pairing it with aged cheese or dark chocolate, which complement its flavors beautifully.
Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon
What Makes It Unique?
What’s truly fascinating about Colonel E.H. Taylor is the legacy it carries. This bourbon is crafted using the traditional sour mash technique, resulting in a balance of sweetness and spice. Priced around $50, its unique profile includes hints of caramel, vanilla, and a slight smokiness. The commitment to excellence is clear when I taste the richness that comes from being aged in a charred oak barrel, reflecting the distillery¡¯s dedication to preserving the art of bourbon-making.
Pappy Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year Old
Notable Awards and Recognition
Pappy Van Winkle has become synonymous with high-quality bourbon, and rightfully so. It has won numerous prestigious awards, including the ¡°Best Bourbon¡± title at various competitions. Retail prices often exceed $1,000 due to its limited annual production of just 7,000 cases. With its deep flavors of caramel, butterscotch, and oak, the rarity and recognition of Pappy make it a coveted addition to any bourbon lover¡¯s collection, including mine!
Old Weller Antique 107 Bourbon Whiskey
Reasons for Its Popularity
Old Weller Antique 107 is often referred to as the ¡°poor man’s Pappy¡± due to its complex flavors and higher proof of 107, while being significantly more accessible at around $60 to $100. I cherish its full-bodied profile that includes rich notes of caramel and spices, making it perfect for sipping neat or in cocktails. The growing fanbase often sees the demand outstrip supply, driving up its popularity, making it a special whiskey worth hunting for.
W.L. Weller Special Reserve
How to Enjoy Weller
W.L. Weller Special Reserve is my go-to wheated bourbon, known for its smoothness and easy drinkability. With a lower proof at 90, this whiskey is perfect over ice or in a refreshing cocktail like a whiskey sour. The price usually hovers around $25 to $50, making it accessible for casual enthusiasts like me. Pairing it with grilled chicken or roasted veggies elevates the experience, as the whiskey enhances the meal¡¯s flavors.
Limited Edition Releases from Buffalo Trace
Current Selections and Future Releases
Buffalo Trace consistently updates its portfolio with limited edition releases. As of 2023, they recently introduced the O.F.C. vintage collection, with bottles from 1980 selling at auction for over $20,000. The thrill of anticipation around such releases keeps collectors like myself on our toes, checking for new drops. It’s exciting to think about what unique expressions the distillery will showcase in the future!
Buffalo Trace¡¯s Aging Process
Impact on Whiskey Flavor
The aging process at Buffalo Trace significantly influences the flavor profiles of its special whiskeys. With an average age of 8 to 12 years for many of their bourbons, climatic factors play a role in flavor extraction from the barrels. I find it fascinating that in warmer climates, whiskey ages faster, drawing more flavors from the wood. This intricate dance between heat and coolness in the warehouse is critical in creating the rich, character-full whiskeys that Buffalo Trace is known for.
Whiskey Tasting Events at Buffalo Trace
Schedule and How to Participate
Buffalo Trace hosts a variety of whiskey tasting events year-round, allowing aficionados like myself to deepen our knowledge. Typically, these events occur monthly and involve tastings of several different whiskeys, complemented by expert guidance. I always recommend checking their official website or calling in advance to nab a spot because these events fill up quickly, often boasting over 50 attendees each time.
Buying Special Whiskeys from Buffalo Trace
Where to Find and Purchase
I¡¯ve found that securing special whiskeys from Buffalo Trace often requires a combination of persistence and strategy. Local liquor stores may stock products, but for some rarer finds, I prefer website resources like Drizly or local auctions. Additionally, the distillery itself often sells exclusive releases during tours, which can be a delightful surprise during my visits.
Collecting Whiskey from Buffalo Trace Distillery
Tips for New Collectors
As I began my whiskey collection, I found a solid strategy helped immensely. First, familiarize yourself with Buffalo Trace’s special whiskey offerings and prioritize desired bottles. Engaging with online forums or local clubs provides insights into collecting trends and rare finds. It¡¯s also crucial to keep up with new releases and limited editions, ensuring that my collection stays current and exciting.
Special Whiskey Pairings
Food and Beverage Pairing Ideas
When it comes to pairing food with special whiskey from Buffalo Trace, I¡¯ve discovered that certain flavors compliment each other magically. For example, I enjoy sipping Eagle Rare with barbecued ribs, where the smoky sweetness of the meat enhances the rich, caramel notes in the bourbon. Another winning combo is pairing Pappy Van Winkle with a dark chocolate cake; the deep flavors of the bourbon elevate the experience and create a match made in heaven.
Exploring Buffalo Trace’s Distillery Tours
What to Expect from the Experience
When I take a distillery tour at Buffalo Trace, I am always eager to learn about its storied history and artisanal methods. Visitors can expect guided tours lasting about 1.5 hours, covering the distillation process, the aging warehouses, and, of course, samples of select whiskeys. With over 300,000 visitors annually, this experience enhances my appreciation for the craftsmanship and dedication behind every bottle I cherish.
Customer Reviews of Special Whiskeys
Insights from Whiskey Enthusiasts
Reading customer reviews of Buffalo Trace’s special whiskeys gives me perspective on how each whiskey resonates differently with drinkers. Many share stories of special occasions tied to particular bottles, reinforcing the emotional connection I feel when enjoying these spirits. It’s comforting to see my appreciation mirrored in the experiences of other enthusiasts.
FAQ
What other whiskey does Buffalo Trace make?
Alongside its special whiskey offerings, Buffalo Trace produces a wide variety including Sazerac Rye, Benchmark Bourbon, and Buffalo Trace Bourbon itself, showcasing the versatility of their craftsmanship.
How much is a bottle of Blanton’s at the distillery?
A bottle of Blanton’s at the distillery usually ranges from $65 to $150 based on the release and scarcity, reflecting its high demand among whiskey collectors and enthusiasts like myself.
What is Weller Special Reserve?
Weller Special Reserve is a smooth wheated bourbon known for its inviting flavor profile, priced reasonably between $25 and $50, making it popular among casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.
Is Eagle Rare rare?
Eagle Rare is not classified as extremely rare, but its limited releases and consistent popularity make it somewhat elusive, with a production of around 90,000 bottles annually, which keeps it sought-after by bourbon lovers.
