Buffalo Trace Distillery has some of the most popular bourbons on the market today. Besides the bourbon that shares the name with the Distillery they produce EH Taylor, Eagle Rare, George T. Stagg, Stagg Jr, Weller and Pappy Van Winkle. The company doesn’t disclose their mash bills, but there is a great article over at Lost Cargo breaking down what uses each bill.
As the $9 billion bourbon industry expands, Buffalo Trace just recently announced plans for expansion though the community has been trying to fight the proposal.
According to the label, “Ancient buffalo carved paths through the wilderness that led American pioneers and explorers to new frontiers. One such trail led to the banks of the Kentucky River where Buffalo Trace Distillery has been making bourbon whiskey the same way for more than 200 years. In tribute to the mighty buffalo and the rugged, independent spirit of the pioneers who followed them, we created our signature Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.”
Review: Buffalo Trace
ABV: 45% (90 Proof)
Type: Bourbon
Color: Amber
Age: 8 Years
Mash Bill: Mash Bill #1 (Low Rye)
Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery
Location: Franklin County, KY (USA)
The Nose: The nose of the Buffalo Trace serves up caramel and honey which dominate the aroma with hints of citrus and vanilla. It’s wonderfully robust without a heavy alcohol content.
The Experience: Sweet and smooth the Buffalo Trace reveals notes of brown sugar, toffee and oak. Subsequent sips reveal rye along with a touch of vanilla and honey. There is a subtle heat on the finish but not enough to detract from the flavors held within the bourbon.
The Pairing: We chose to pair the cigar with the Nestor Miranda Special Selection Connecticut which was just re-released to the market after a hiatus. The cigar on its own offers notes of almonds, brown sugar and a buttery richness. The two compliment each other well enhancing their stand alone notes while added a confectioners sugar. We never allow our pairing to affect our scoring, but if we did its would add 2 points to the bourbon and the cigar which got a 94 on our sister site, The Cigar Authority.
Conclusion: In 2021, finding Buffalo Trace bourbon in New Hampshire was near impossible. This year, every time I’ve gone into the liquor store I’ve been able to get it. Buffalo Trace for the price is by far the best bourbon at the price point. It’s smooth, balanced and offers a flavor easily enjoyable by anyone. For the seasoned bourbon drinkers there might be a knock on the sweetness which does give it a rum like feel. But with that said this is the quintessential bourbon that every bar should have.
Score: 92
Price: $27.99 (New Hampshire)
