This is the core whiskey from the Buffalo Trace distillery in the American state of Kentucky. The distillery name originates from its close proximity to ‘The Great Buffalo Trace’ – an ancient migration path, which is also known as a trace, used by buffalo and other animal species.
This stretches across the North American continent from west to east, and along the banks of the Kentucky River. It remains in use by the animals today. Early settlers used this route to traverse the country and set up a community in what is now Kentucky during the late 1700s. The distillery has been operating on the same site in Frankfort since 1812.
Buffalo Trace was one of the few distilleries to continue distilling during the Prohibition era (1920 to 1933) for the production of medicinal alcohol. Now, it is regarded as one of the best American whiskies in the world and is one of the most awarded. Buffalo Trace make several other bourbons and rye whiskeys at the distillery, each with a different mashbill. These include Blanton’s, Eagle Rare, George T. Stagg and Sazerac.
This whiskey has been aged in charred virgin American oak barrels for an average of six years. It is produced using a selection of corn, rye and malted barley which are all grown in Franklin County, near the distillery. The mashbill is a secret but said to contain a low percentage of rye.
This Buffalo Trace original bottling is released at 40% ABV (80 Proof) and is widely available in specialist retailers and supermarkets across the world. It is also a bartender favourite so it often seen in bars. A bottle should cost around £25.
Our Tasting Notes
The colour is bright gold and the nose is gorgeous. There are plenty of vanilla and coconut aromas with hints of marzipan, sugared almond and cherry quickly following. Fresh oak aromas also develop, as does a deep earthy spice, which is reminiscent of gingerbread. Hints of waxy polish and cola bottles add complexity.
On the palate, this whiskey is soft and creamy with expressive and sugary notes. Again, there is plenty of vanilla and coconut present – think of vanilla fudge and creamed coconut. Following this, some more subtle flavours are revealed with lemon zest and a hint of orange marmalade coming through.
Then come the sugared almond and marzipan from the nose, plus something spicy (think of nutmeg and that gingerbread again), bitter chocolate, a hint of aniseed and maraschino cherry. The finish is of decent length and starts off sweet and creamy but interestingly twists to be slightly drier, woodier and more savoury towards at the end.
What’s The Verdict?
Buffalo Trace is extremely well balanced and has long been a favourite American whiskey of ours. It also seems a bargain price for something of this quality and why it has won so many awards. It is not the most complex but does not need to be. It drinks superbly well and is highly enjoyable. Also a fabulous choice to mix in a classic American cocktail such as a Manhattan or Old Fashioned.
