Last Updated on March 1, 2024 by Lydia Martin
If you’re looking for a whole Kentucky bourbon drinking experience, you don’t want to miss out on the Buffalo Trace.
This flagship holds a rich background history and a classic bourbon profile.
Most bourbon enthusiasts would prefer sipping it neat, but the versatility of Buffalo Trace’s tasting profile can do a lot more.
Prepare your palate and discover the best way to drink Buffalo Trace bourbon. Read on.
5 Great Ways To Drink Buffalo Trace
5. Pair It
Cigars
Brown spirits like Buffalo Trace bourbon make a great pairing with cigars. The smooth, oaky profile of Buffalo Trace surprisingly blends well with the toasty leather notes of cigars.
But when pairing cigars with Buffalo Trace, choose a cigar that will not overpower but will match the well-rounded profile of Buffalo Trace.
Cigars use tobacco leaves as wrappers [1] which can add boldness, bring out the sweetness of bourbon and make a pleasurable drinking experience when paired with Buffalo Trace.
Corn Snacks Or Tortilla Chips
Corn snacks and tortilla chips are an excellent tandem with bourbon to enjoy the notes of bourbon. It can also act as a palate cleanser when doing some bourbon tasting.
Although salty chips work fine, we recommend you pair Buffalo Trace with unsalted corn snacks and tortilla chips to set back your palate for your next sip.
4. Straight Up
If you’re looking for other ways to drink your Buffalo Trace, try drinking it ’straight up.’
You can experience your bourbon cold, iced-shaken, or stirred with ice but served with no ice.
Drinking your Buffalo Trace straight up can give a refreshing drink experience with a little dilution twist on its flavor profile after shaking it with ice.
3. On The Rocks
Buffalo Trace with ice or on the rocks is a great way to savor the balanced heat from the bourbon. The dilution with ice opens up its complex aroma and flavors.
However, the ice dilution may alter the quality of your bourbon drinking experience, depending on the type, size, and amount of ice used.
When taking Buffalo Trace on the rocks, we suggest you use one large ice ball or cube because larger ice dilutes slower. [2]
2. Mixed
A Little Bit Of Water
Adding a little bit of water to your bourbon is common for many Buffalo Trace drinkers, and the right amount of water can improve the taste profile of the bourbon.
The water dilution also tends to open the bourbon up and bring out another set of nuanced flavors and aromas to create a balanced drinking experience.
“But whatever you like, whatever tastes good for you, is what you should go for. It’s your whiskey — drink it how you want.”
– Adam Montgomerie, Bar Manager
But be careful when adding water because too much dilution can ruin the drink’s flavors.
Ginger Ale
If you want a classic bubbly highball drink with a little ginger kick, pair your Buffalo Trace with ginger ale. These two drinks compliments each tasting profile.
Giger ale brings out its bubbly spiciness and blends well with the sweet, oaky flavor of Buffalo Trace. It is an ideal choice for an everyday mixer with Buffalo Trace.
Club Soda
Club soda works so well with bourbons. It is a lightly carbonated soda made with water and minerals, mild enough not to overpower the flavor of Buffalo Trace.
It dilutes the Buffalo Trace bourbon but adds fizziness and creates a bubbly drink.
1. Neat
Most bourbon lovers take Buffalo Trace neatly, without additives, in a Glencairn or rocks glass.
It is the most straightforward way to consume your bourbon in the purest possible form.
When served neat at room temperature, you can appreciate the intricate, well-rounded aroma and classic tasting notes of oak, caramel, and vanilla of Buffalo Trace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Buffalo Trace good for sipping?
Yes, Buffalo Trace is good for sipping. It is a solid and affordable option for neat drinkers who enjoy a simple yet balanced classic bourbon taste.
Is there really a “right” way to drink Buffalo Trace?
There is neither a right nor wrong way to drink Buffalo Trace bourbons. Although you can experience its full-tasting notes neatly, its well-rounded profile can be enjoyed in many ways.
How are you supposed to drink Buffalo Trace?
Buffalo Trace, being a high-quality bourbon, can be enjoyed in various ways to suit individual preferences. The most traditional and classic method is to savor it neat, at room temperature, allowing the rich flavors and aromas to unfold without any dilution.
Pour a measure of Buffalo Trace into a whiskey glass, sipping it slowly to appreciate the complex notes and smooth finish.
However, personal taste plays a significant role, and some may prefer to add a splash of water to open up the flavors and reduce the alcohol intensity slightly.
What is good to mix with Buffalo Trace?
Buffalo Trace’s versatile profile makes it an excellent base for cocktails. Classic bourbon cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or Whiskey Sour are popular choices.
The sweetness and robust character of Buffalo Trace complement the mixers and other ingredients in these cocktails, creating a balanced and enjoyable drink.
Experimenting with different bitters, syrups, or garnishes can enhance the complexity of the cocktail, tailoring it to your taste preferences.
What is the best way to enjoy Buffalo Trace?
The best way to enjoy Buffalo Trace ultimately depends on individual preferences. For purists, sipping it neat or with a splash of water allows the full spectrum of flavors to shine.
If you prefer a longer, refreshing drink, incorporating Buffalo Trace into cocktails adds a new dimension to the experience.
Additionally, pairing Buffalo Trace with premium chocolate or a mild cigar can create a delightful sensory combination, bringing out the whiskey’s nuances and enhancing the overall tasting experience.
Can you drink Buffalo Trace straight?
Absolutely, Buffalo Trace is crafted to be enjoyed straight. Pouring it into a glass without any mixers allows you to fully appreciate its intricate flavor profile.
The combination of sweet notes, hints of vanilla, and a balanced spice make sipping Buffalo Trace neat a rewarding experience for those who enjoy the purity of a well-crafted bourbon.
Can you drink Buffalo Trace with coke?
While purists may argue against mixing high-quality bourbon with cola, the choice ultimately lies with personal preference. Mixing Buffalo Trace with cola, often referred to as a Bourbon and Coke, can create a sweeter and more approachable drink.
The caramel and vanilla notes of Buffalo Trace may complement the soda, offering a different kind of refreshment.
However, it’s essential to note that this method may mask some of the whiskey’s nuanced flavors compared to enjoying it neat or in classic cocktails.
Is Buffalo Trace a good beginner whiskey?
Yes, Buffalo Trace is often considered an excellent choice for beginners due to its approachable and well-balanced flavor profile.
Its smoothness, combined with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice, makes it a welcoming introduction to the world of whiskey.
Is Buffalo Trace a good sipping whiskey?
Absolutely, Buffalo Trace is a superb sipping whiskey. Its complex flavor profile, ranging from sweet to slightly spicy, provides a delightful experience when enjoyed neat or with a splash of water.
The smooth finish and well-rounded taste make it a favorite among those who appreciate savoring their whiskey slowly.
What is the healthiest thing to mix with whiskey?
If health is a concern, mixing whiskey with plain water or soda water is a low-calorie and low-sugar option. This allows you to enjoy the flavors of the whiskey without the added sugars found in many mixers.
Opting for water not only maintains the integrity of the whiskey but also keeps the calorie count minimal, making it a relatively healthier choice.
Why is Buffalo Trace expensive?
Buffalo Trace’s pricing is influenced by several factors. Firstly, its production involves high-quality ingredients, including a unique mash bill and aging in new charred oak barrels, contributing to the whiskey’s exceptional flavor.
Additionally, Buffalo Trace’s popularity and critical acclaim contribute to its demand, impacting its market value.
Limited releases and allocated batches can also drive up prices as enthusiasts eagerly seek these exclusive offerings.
The combination of craftsmanship, quality, and market dynamics collectively contribute to the perceived expense of Buffalo Trace.
What is special about Buffalo Trace?
Buffalo Trace stands out for several reasons. It’s crafted at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, renowned for its rich history and commitment to traditional bourbon-making methods.
The whiskey’s mash bill, combining corn, rye, and barley, results in a well-balanced and flavorful spirit. Buffalo Trace is aged in new charred oak barrels, allowing it to develop a unique character over time.
Its versatility shines, whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a base for cocktails.
Furthermore, Buffalo Trace has received numerous awards, solidifying its reputation as a premium and special bourbon in the world of whiskey.
Final Verdict: Best Way To Drink Buffalo Trace
You can enjoy every drop of Buffalo Trace any way you like it. It is a versatile spirit that pairs well with many mixers.
Try drinking Buffalo Trace straight up, on the rocks, or mixing it with sodas or a few drops of water to open up the flavor and aroma.
But most purists appreciate sipping Buffalo Trace neat.
No matter how you drink your Buffalo Trace bourbon, you can always pair it with cigars or food like corn snacks and tortilla chips on the side.
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