Buffalo Trace
Buffalo Trace Distillery: Two Centuries of History and Innovation
Located in Frankfort , Kentucky , on the banks of the Kentucky River, Buffalo Trace is one of the oldest and most prestigious distilleries in the United States. Its name, adopted in 1999 , pays homage to the ancient trails forged by the bison herds that once roamed the region. These paths, which became routes for explorers and pioneers, symbolize the free and independent spirit with which the distillery still identifies today.
A history marked by the great names of bourbon
While the first traces of distillation on the site date back to the late 18th century, the distillery was officially founded in 1812. It changed hands and names several times over the decades: Old Fire Copper Distillery under Colonel Edmund H. Taylor in 1870, then George T. Stagg Company after its acquisition by George T. Stagg at the end of the 19th century. Despite a devastating fire in 1882, it was quickly rebuilt and continued to thrive.
During Prohibition (1920–1933), Buffalo Trace was one of the very few distilleries authorized to produce "medicinal whiskey," allowing it to survive when the majority of American producers closed their doors. This exceptional continuity earned it National Historic Landmark status in 2013, as a rare example of a distillery that remained active before, during, and after Prohibition.
In the 20th century, major figures in bourbon contributed to its influence, notably Elmer T. Lee , master distiller from 1949 to 1985, who revolutionized the category by creating the very first premium single barrel bourbon.
Technical expertise of excellence
Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon is made from a traditional mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley . The grains are stored and milled separately before being transferred to huge fermentation tanks. The first distillation takes place in a continuous column still , followed by a second distillation in a pot still .
The aging process takes place in new American oak barrels , the wood of which has been dried for a minimum of six months before blending and toasting. The distillery's century-old warehouses house tens of thousands of barrels; those from the middle floors are often preferred for bottling, offering an optimal balance between intensity and elegance.
Buffalo Trace is also known for its spirit of experimentation: the distillery has thousands of experimental barrels designed to explore the influence of wood, toasting and maturation conditions on the flavor profile of bourbon.
Global recognition
With numerous international accolades —including nearly 18 medals in 2020 alone—Buffalo Trace is regularly cited among the world's most awarded distilleries . A multiple "Distillery of the Year," it continues to innovate while preserving a unique heritage spanning over 200 years.
Today, Buffalo Trace remains a distillery deeply rooted in American history. Research, mastery of aging, and respect for traditional craftsmanship give rise to bourbons recognized worldwide. Read less
