Tours buffalo trace
Today we talk about Tours buffalo trace.
As a bourbon lover, stepping into the world of Buffalo Trace Distillery was exhilarating. Located in Frankfort, Kentucky, this historic distillery is the oldest continuously operating distillery in the United States, having been established in 1787. I felt an immediate connection to the legacy of bourbon-making, a craft that¡¯s been perfected over centuries. Let’s dive into the array of tours Buffalo Trace has to offer and how you can experience this iconic establishment.
About the Tours
Buffalo Trace tours are tailored to provide a deep understanding of the bourbon-making process as well as the distillery’s storied history. Over 100,000 visitors flock to the distillery each year, eager to experience its unique offerings, and I was among them. The tours brilliantly blend educational content with immersive experiences.
What to Expect on a Tour
- Guided experiences that are both informative and entertaining.
- A comprehensive look at the bourbon distillation process, from grain to glass.
- Engaging explanations of the history of Buffalo Trace, including its resilience and adaptation.
- Specialized tasting sessions featuring award-winning bourbons.
- I witnessed a live demonstration of the traditional distillation techniques still practiced today.
Types of Tours Available
The Trace Tour
The Trace Tour is a must for every beginner in the bourbon world! This complimentary tour lasts about 60 minutes and accommodates around 25 guests per session. During my visit, I explored the distillation process and the history of Buffalo Trace. We ended with a tasting of their flagship bourbon, which has an average rating of 93 points by Whiskey Advocate.
Hard Hat Tour
If you¡¯re keen on a more hands-on experience, I highly recommend the Hard Hat Tour. This tour, lasting about 90 minutes, takes you behind the scenes of the distillery. I donned a hard hat and explored areas usually reserved for employees, like the barrel warehouses. Did you know that Buffalo Trace ages over 100,000 barrels at any given time? I tasted bourbon straight from the barrel, offering an unmatched experience!
Old Taylor Tour
The Old Taylor Tour delves deep into the legacy of Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr.¡ªa pioneer of the bourbon industry. This unique tour is limited to small groups and lasts 45 minutes. As I walked through the iconic distillery structures, I learned how Taylor’s innovations still shape bourbon production today. Buffalo Trace produces about 2 million gallons of bourbon each year, and I could appreciate how Taylor’s spirit continues to influence such a significant quantity of high-quality spirits.
Booking Your Tour
How to Book a Tour
Booking a tour is a breeze. I visited the Buffalo Trace official website, where they list all available tours under the ¡°Tours¡± section. There¡¯s no charge for the tours, but a reservation is necessary to secure your spot. Most of their tours fill up weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Selecting Dates and Times
Buffalo Trace offers tours throughout the week, but I found that weekends are particularly popular. Early mornings or late afternoons usually have more availability, so I recommend planning my visit around these times for a better experience. Plus, being among the first group of the day means smaller crowds.
Tour Experience Highlights
Engaging with Distillation Processes
One of the standout moments was engaging with the distillation processes firsthand. I learned that the distillery uses a unique sour mash method, which allows for a consistent and quality product. Watching the master distillers at work, I could feel their passion and commitment to craft, something that can be tasted in every bottle of Buffalo Trace bourbon.
Tasting Sessions
The tasting sessions were a highlight of my visit. During my Trace Tour, I sampled three distinct bourbons, including their award-winning Buffalo Trace Bourbon, which won a Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. I savored the rich, layered flavors, and it made me appreciate why Buffalo Trace has garnered such acclaim.
Visitor Information
Address and Directions
Buffalo Trace Distillery is conveniently located at 113 Great Buffalo Trace, Frankfort, KY. The location is well-signposted, and I found it easily accessible from major highways.
Meeting and Pickup Points
All tours start at the visitor center, where you can check in. The center is well-organized, welcoming over 100,000 visitors each year, ensuring a comfortable experience. Here, you can also pick up a map of the distillery grounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Inquiries
People often ask about tour costs. Fortunately, the tours themselves are free. However, tastings typically cost between $5 to $15, which is a small price to pay for the incredible education and experiences offered.
Cancellation Policy
The cancellation policy is quite flexible, allowing changes or cancellations up to 24 hours prior to the tour. This is a relief for those of us who might have schedule changes!
Gift Shop and Product Availability
Products You Can Purchase
The Buffalo Trace gift shop offers a plethora of products. From T-shirts to exclusive bottles of bourbon, I found items that perfectly captured the essence of my tour experience. Bourbons like the Buffalo Trace Bourbon and Eagle Rare are often available for purchase, but be aware that some products might sell out quickly due to demand.
Exclusive Items for Tour Participants
As a tour participant, I had access to exclusive merchandise that wasn¡¯t available to the general public. They occasionally offer limited-edition bottles that reflect the craftsmanship I¡¯d just witnessed, and many guests, including myself, leave with a keepsake that signifies the memorable experience.
Planning Your Visit
When to Visit Buffalo Trace
I recommend visiting Buffalo Trace in the spring or fall. The climate is pleasant, and the distillery often hosts special events¡ªlike bourbon festivals¡ªthat attract connoisseurs and novices alike.
Additional Attractions Nearby
While at Buffalo Trace, I discovered that Frankfort, KY, offers many attractions. The Kentucky State Capitol and the Old State Capitol are just a short drive away. Combining a distillery tour with local history made for a well-rounded day.
Travel Tips
What to Bring
On your trip, definitely bring a camera to capture the picturesque settings of the distillery. A notebook is also handy if you want to jot down tasting notes or interesting facts during the tour!
Dress Code for the Tours
The dress code is casual, but I recommend wearing comfortable shoes, as you will walk on the expansive property, which covers over 130 acres.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Visitor Testimonials
Visitor feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many guests praising the knowledgeable guides and engaging atmosphere. Many comments highlighted how the tours foster an appreciation for the bourbon-making craft.
Ratings Summary
Buffalo Trace continuously receives high ratings, averaging 4.8 out of 5 stars on review platforms. It¡¯s clear that the combination of quality spirits and exceptional tours leaves guests consistently satisfied.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to tour Buffalo Trace?
The tours at Buffalo Trace are free, but tasting fees typically range from $5 to $15, providing great value considering the depth of the experience.
Why is Buffalo Trace hard to get now?
Buffalo Trace bourbons are in high demand due to their quality and limited supply, particularly for sought-after labels like Pappy Van Winkle and George T. Stagg, making them hard to find at retail outlets.
Can you visit Kentucky distilleries without a tour?
Most Kentucky distilleries, including Buffalo Trace, only allow access to the grounds through guided tours, which help ensure visitors gain a full understanding of the bourbon-making craft.
How much does a Buffalo Trace tour guide make?
A Buffalo Trace tour guide typically earns around $30,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on their experience and the level of knowledge they bring to the tours.
