What is Buffalo Trace whiskey and why is it so popular?

If you’re a whiskey enthusiast or just like a browse of the drinks aisle when you shop, then you’ll know Buffalo Trace whiskey. It’s both the name of a suitably drinkable bourbon and the distillery that makes it. The former is a reliable, affordable, charming option for all, the latter is best known as the epicentre of the cream of bourbon’s corny crop, producing such whiskey highlights as Pappy Van Winkle and the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection.

With so much attention going to these superstars, we’re going to turn our attention to the sometimes overlooked mainstay at the core of the brand. The whiskey that lets Buffalo Trace stretch its hooves and create remarkable things. If a seemingly ordinary whisky facilitates the extraordinary, is it really ordinary? 

Let’s explore the story of Buffalo Trace whiskey.

What is Buffalo Trace whiskey and why is it so popular?

What is Buffalo Trace whiskey?

Buffalo Trace is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, made at the aforementioned historic Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. The distillery has been producing whiskey for over 200 years, making it one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the United States. It’s survived wars, Prohibition, and plenty of changes in the whiskey world, yet it remains at the top of its game. Like Jeff Goldblum. 

The bourbon itself is made from a mash bill that’s relatively high in corn, which gives it that characteristic sweet, smooth flavour. Buffalo Trace is aged in new, charred oak barrels, which imparts deep caramel and vanilla notes to the whiskey.

Why the name “Buffalo Trace”?

The name “Buffalo Trace” comes from the paths, or “traces,” that buffalo herds once carved through the wilderness as they migrated. Early American settlers recognised these trails led them to fertile lands near rivers. Perfect farming land, in other words. At the cornerstone of the early United States adventure were grains like corn. Where there was grain, particularly farmed by Irish and Scottish settlers, there was whiskey made with the surplus farmed. The Buffalo Trace distillery is located near one such trail, giving it both a historical and geographical connection to America’s frontier past.

Why did Buffalo Trace Whiskey become so popular?

1. Rich History and Legacy

Buffalo Trace’s popularity leverages its heritage. When you have over 200 years of whiskey-making experience and a distillery with a reputation for quality and consistency – you dang shout about it. Its history is not just a selling point, though. It’s a testament to the dedication and craft that goes into each bottle. That might sound corny, but ask people in whiskey how much they value the people who make Buffalo Trace and they’ll tell you it’s true. Plus, it’s fitting given how much corn is in the mashbill. The distillery’s ability to maintain its legacy while still innovating is a big reason why people respect and trust the brand.

2. Approachable and Affordable

Buffalo Trace offers incredible value for money. In today’s market, the amount of money it takes to prize the bottle off the shelf doesn’t really go very far. So it’s particularly rewarding that it nabs you a bourbon of this quality. The price tag also does something brilliant: it encourages whiskey newcomers. Plus repeat customers. Seasoned enthusiasts disillusioned with the current market. Affordable meets a lot of criteria. The problem is people equate cheap with a lack of quality. Not the case here.

3. Award-Winning Quality

Buffalo Trace whiskey has a great balance of sweetness, spice, and richness, which makes it easy to sip neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail. It’s an all-rounder that doesn’t compromise on flavour, and that’s a big part of its appeal. Over the years, those qualities have seen it and the distillery that makes it rack up numerous awards. International spirit competitions launch their proverbial panties at the big BT like it’s a Beatle crossed with Mr Darcy. This steady stream of accolades only helps boost its reputation. When a whiskey consistently wins awards, it’s bound to attract attention.

4. Versatile and Bartender-Friendly

Buffalo Trace is a bartender’s favourite. It’s often used in classic bourbon drinks like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan, where its sweet, oaky notes shine through without overpowering the other ingredients. Its versatility and cost have made it a staple in many bars, contributing to its widespread popularity.

5. Solid Reputation Among Whiskey Enthusiasts

Ask any bourbon lover about Buffalo Trace, and they’re likely to speak highly of it. It’s a whiskey that has earned a solid reputation in whiskey circles for its reliability and flavour. Unlike some bourbons that are hard to find or priced out of reach, Buffalo Trace is widely available and delivers every time. That consistency builds loyalty among drinkers, and word of mouth has played a significant role in its rise to popularity.

6. Innovative Distillery Practices

While Buffalo Trace sticks to traditional bourbon-making techniques, the distillery is also known for its innovation. They’ve experimented with different barrel types, unique mash bills, and various ageing conditions over the years. The core Buffalo Trace whiskey might be steady Eddie, but people respect it because they respect the distillery behind it. 

What Does Buffalo Trace Taste Like?

What you can expect when you pour yourself a glass of Buffalo Trace?

On the nose, you’ll immediately get a strong sense of caramel, vanilla, and warm oak, with hints of dried fruits and a touch of spice. It’s a very classic bourbon in that sense, rich in comforting aromas. Deep, sticky, toasty sweetness. Like a fireplace made out of toffee, oak, and vanilla ice cream. When you take a sip, those flavours deepen. The palate is sweet and smooth, with layers of toffee, brown sugar, and a bit of orange zest, balanced by a nice subtle spiciness. Think cinnamon and clove. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering vanilla and oak notes. 

It’s satisfying to drink. A good, uncomplicated bourbon embraces your throat and nestles with warm assurance in your stomach. I’m a romantic at heart and can’t help feeling like a bit of a cowboy when I drink Buffalo Trace. I want to sit by a fire and eat beans out of a pot when I knock it back. Living in Kent, you make do. Stick on Red Dead Redemption 2 and set up camp and watch the virtual world go by or put on Tombstone and revel in Val Kilmer’s Doc Holiday when you sip this bourbon for maximum effect. 

Should You Try Buffalo Trace?

Hell yeah. Whether you’re just starting your bourbon journey or are a seasoned whiskey drinker, Buffalo Trace is a must-try. Let’s run through the list again:

Affordable – tick.

Versatile – tick.

Well-made – tick.

Cool ass bottle – tick.

Tasty – tick.

Buffalos – tick. 

Buffalo Trace is a bourbon that delivers time and again. It’s the kind of bourbon that’s easy to enjoy whether you’re new to whiskey or have been sipping it for years. That balance of sweetness, spice, and wood hits the mark every time for this cowboy.

You can buy Buffalo Trace whiskey here.

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