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Buffalo Trace Distillery

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Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery produces fine Kentucky bourbon and is located in the city of Frankfort. Although it is named Buffalo Trace, it is operated by The Sazerac Company. The company name refers to an ancient buffalo crossing on the banks of the Kentucky River in Franklin County, Kentucky.

For over 200 years, it has operated under several names which include George T. Stagg Distillery, and The Old Fashioned Copper Distillery. 

Undoubtedly, Buffalo Trace honors tradition and deep Kentucky distilling roots. Importantly, the unmatched history is what makes Buffalo Trace Distillery one of the premier spirit makers of the world!

The History of Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace is known as the oldest continuously operating distillery in the United States. Additionally, it is listed on the registry of National Historic Landmarks. Records show that the distillery started in 1775 by Hancock Lee alongside brother Willis Lee. It was first constructed in 1812 by Harrison Blanton. In 1870, it was purchased by Edmund H. Taylor with an investment of $70,000. Taylor named the distillery Old Fire Copper. Later on, it was sold to George T. Stagg along with the Old Oscar Pepper Distillery.

Undoubtedly, at that time, the whiskey industry was booming just like it is today. Not only did Stagg build several new warehouses, but two of them are still standing today. Unfortunately, a lightening strike burned the O.F.C. Distillery in what was known as “The Great Fire.”

The distillery was immediately rebuilt, along with new advances. It is important to know that Buffalo Trace was the first distillery to install steam heating for climate control in 1886.

In 1921, Albert B. Blanton becomes President of the George T. Stagg Distillery while Stagg kept it running throughout the prohibition period for medicinal purposes. In 1952, the distillery was named Blanton’s Distillery to honor him prior to an investor group purchasing in 1982.

Nevertheless, it became family owned again in 1992 by the Goldring family, owners of the Sazerac Company. Today, it generates great tourism in The Bluegrass State. Many from near and afar come to Frankfort to experience the history, the whiskey, and all of what Kentucky hospitality has to offer.

Being that the distillery years upon years of heritage, there is always something new to learn. You may or may not find that some of the employees have worked there for decades, and continue to honor the spirit of their predecessors.

Buffalo Trace Bourbon

Buffalo Trace is produced as it’s own brand of bourbon under The Sazerac company at Buffalo Trace Distillery. Importantly, it is one of the top selling bourbon names worldwide. In addition to the this staple spirit, there are countless more included in the portfolio:

  • Eagle Rare
  • O.F.C. Vintages
  • Experimental Collection
  • E.J. Taylor Jr.
  • Van Winkle
  • George T. Stagg
  • W.L Weller
  • Old Charter
  • Benchmark
  • Sazerac Rye
  • Wheatley Vodka
How to Drink Spirits Produced at Buffalo Trace Distillery

Many say, that the best Sazerac cocktail is made with Sazerac Rye. Nevertheless, there are various ways one can enjoy the spirits listed above. Many bartenders craft the most delicious cocktails, however, you don’t have to be an expert to enjoy Buffalo Trace. Many of these spirits can be enjoyed simply neat or on the rocks. No matter the preference, there’s always a way to enjoy!

KY Supply Co x Buffalo Trace Distillery

Kentucky Supply Co is here to cover all things related to the Buffalo Trace Distillery!  Follow us along as we cover the latest bottle releases, cocktail recipes, and bourbon news.