Last Updated on March 20, 2024 by Lydia Martin
The Buffalo Trace Distillery, located in Frankfurt, Kentucky, is the continuously-operating distillery in the United States. When alcohol wasn’t even allowed to be manufactured and sold, this distillery miraculously survived and sold whiskey for “medicinal purposes.”
Its flagship product, the Buffalo Trace Bourbon, is well-loved by bourbon aficionados. Let’s look at the Buffalo Trace Bourbon price and its unique flavor notes.
An Overview On Buffalo Trace Bourbon
While the actual inception of the Buffalo Trace Distillery remains vague, records indicate that distilling on the site began as early as 1775.
In 1812, Harrison Blanton constructed the actual distillery, and over the years, it has changed quite a few hands in ownership.
Probably the most profound is George T. Stagg, as some people still refer to the location as the George T. Stagg Distillery. In 2013, the 130-acre bourbon behemoth was declared a National Historic Landmark.
The Buffalo Trace Bourbon is as carefully made today as it was over 200 years ago: rich and complex, yet incredibly smooth and silky.
Buffalo Trace is double-distilled and aged in new oak barrels. It is said that the distillery produces around 10,000,000 liters of this whiskey per year. But why is Buffalo Trace difficult to find?
Fun Facts
How It’s Made
The Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon is specially handcrafted in the world’s most awarded distillery.
Its low-rye proprietary mash bill is double-distilled and aged in new oak barrels for eight to ten years before being bottled at 90 proof.
This makes Buffalo Trace special and well-loved.
The long aging process ensures that all sharpness is rounded out. Check out the Kentucky Bourbon Festival here.
Read: Buffalo Trace Cigar Guide
Main Ingredients
The company has never disclosed the main ingredients nor the mash bill for its bourbon, but being the experts that we are, here’s what we can tell you.
Buffalo Trace Bourbon is friendly on the nose, unintimidating even for bourbon beginners. It has pleasant notes of honey and caramel, laced with hints of oak and citrus.
As you sip, rich butterscotch, toffee, and brown sugar say hello, but these are slowly balanced out with spicy rye the longer the bourbon sits on your tongue. It has a moderate finish with a lingering spice.
Read: Bradshaw Straight Bourbon Guide
Ways To Drink Buffalo Trace Bourbon
Like other bourbons, you can enjoy Buffalo Trace neat, with a little water, or mixed drinks. Whiskey connoisseurs (us included!) highly recommend sampling Buffalo Trace Bourbon in its pure, unadulterated form first.
This process will allow you to fully experience all the flavor nuances within the spirit.
Make sure that you use a brandy snifter for the added aroma. However, if you find Buffalo Trace’s neat is too harsh for you, you can dial the bite down by adding ice or a tiny drop of water [1].
Read: Who Really Owns Howler Head Whiskey?
If you use ice, keep in mind that a larger ice cube is better preferred as this won’t easily melt and dilute your drink.
And lastly, Buffalo Trace Bourbon shines beautifully in whiskey-based cocktails.
The Whiskey Sour, Old Fashioned, and Mint Julep are just some of the best cocktails for this spirit. Here’s a more thorough liquor guide for newbies.
Common Buffalo Trace Bourbon Prices
| Type | Size | Alcohol Proof | Average Price |
| Buffalo Trace Bourbon | 750ml | 90 | Around $34.99 |
| Buffalo Trace Distillery Bourbon Cream | 750ml | 34 | Around $27.99 |
| Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection | 750ml | 90 | Around $149.99 |
| Buffalo Trace Kosher Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey | 750ml | 94 | Around $54.99 |
| Buffalo Trace Kosher Rye Recipe | 750ml | 94 | Around $124.99 |
| Buffalo Trace Kosher Wheat Recipe | 750ml | 94 | Around $69 |
| Buffalo Trace White Dog Wheated Mash | 375ml | 114 | Around $22.99 |
Compared To Other Bourbons
Evan Williams
Evan Williams is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey brand produced in Bardstown, Kentucky, otherwise known as the Bourbon Capital of the World.
Much like Buffalo Trace, this bourbon is sweet and smooth, with strong notes of caramel and chocolate. This works extremely well when taken neat or in cocktails.
A 750 ml bottle of Evan Williams is around $17.99, about half of Buffalo Trace at a similar size.
Read: Top Buffalo Trace Bourbon Alternatives
Bulleit Bourbon
Bulleit Bourbon is well-known for its 150-year-old high-rye bourbon recipe, made with 95% rye and 5% malted barley.
The high rye content contributes to a bold, spicy character, laced with hints of vanilla, honey, and nutmeg. The spirit is bottled at 45% ABV, which is stronger than Buffalo Trace’s 40%.
Bulleit Rye costs around $21.99 to $29.89 for a 750 ml bottle, only slightly cheaper than Buffalo Trace.
Read: Bulleit Bourbon vs Buffalo Trace
Jim Beam
When you say bourbon, Jim Beam is probably number one on the list. This brand has a whopping 18 variants, each as delicious as the other.
Each shares Jim Beam’s signature caramel and vanilla notes with a crisp and clean finish.
Jim Beam is probably one of the cheapest bourbons on the market. You can get a 750 ml bottle for less than $20, relatively more inexpensive than Buffalo Trace.
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- Howler Head Whiskey Full Guide
- Uncle Nearest Whiskey Full Guide
Popular Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cocktails
Old Fashioned
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Sugar cube
- Water
- Large ice cube
- Orange peel
Instructions:
Put the sugar cube in a rocks glass, followed by the bitters and a splash of water. Muddle until the sugar has fully dissolved. Drop the large ice cube and pour in the bourbon. Gently stir until combined. Garnish with the orange peel.
Serving: 1
Buffalo Brew
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 0.5 oz Amaro Meletti
- 2 oz strong cold brew coffee
- 0.25 oz rich demerara simple
- 1 dash orange bitters
- 2 dashes Bittermens Xocolatl Mole bitters
- Bourbon cream
- Espresso bean
Instructions:
Pour all ingredients (except the cream) into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well until combined. Pour and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Top with bourbon cream and garnish with an espresso bean. More Buffalo Trace bourbon cream recipes here.
Serving: 1
Bourbon Peach Smash
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 1 oz simple syrup
- ½ peach, diced
- 4 mint leaves
- Ginger beer
- Peach slice
- Fresh mint
- Ice
Instructions:
Put the diced peach, mint leaves, and syrup in a cocktail shaker and muddle until the ingredients have released their natural juices.
Add the ice and bourbon and shake until everything is combined and chilled.
Pour and strain the mixture into a rocks glass with fresh ice and top with ginger beer. Lastly, garnish it with fresh mint and a peach slice.
Serving: 1
FAQs
What is a good price for Buffalo Trace Bourbon?
You can expect to pay about $40 for a bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, which we believe is a fair price for its excellent quality. Let’s compare Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare bourbon here.
Is Buffalo Trace expensive?
No, Buffalo Trace is not expensive. It’s not as cheap as other bourbon brands, like Jim Beam and Jack Daniels, but it’s not crazy expensive either.
We would consider it a mid-range bourbon brand at around $40-ish for a 750 ml bottle. Here’s our detailed comparison between Buffalo Trace and Woodford Reserve.
Is Buffalo Trace good bourbon?
Buffalo Trace is widely regarded as an excellent bourbon by whiskey enthusiasts and critics alike. Its smooth, balanced flavor profile, characterized by notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice, has earned it numerous accolades in the spirits industry. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the base for classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan, Buffalo Trace consistently delivers a high-quality drinking experience. Its affordability relative to other premium bourbons further adds to its appeal, making it a favorite among both seasoned bourbon aficionados and newcomers to the spirit.
Is Buffalo Trace top shelf whiskey?
While Buffalo Trace is undeniably a high-quality bourbon, it may not always be categorized as a top shelf whiskey in the strictest sense. The term “top shelf” typically refers to ultra-premium spirits commanding premium prices and often featuring unique aging processes or limited availability. While Buffalo Trace offers exceptional quality and taste, its relatively widespread availability and more accessible price point may place it in a tier slightly below the most exclusive and sought-after whiskeys. Nonetheless, it remains a favorite among discerning drinkers for its consistent quality and value.
Why is Buffalo Trace so hard to find?
Buffalo Trace’s scarcity on store shelves is primarily due to its popularity and the limited production capacity of its distillery. As demand for bourbon has surged in recent years, particularly for well-regarded brands like Buffalo Trace, supply shortages have become common. Additionally, the aging process required for bourbon means that producers cannot simply increase output to meet rising demand overnight. Furthermore, Buffalo Trace’s reputation for quality and value only serves to increase its desirability among consumers, exacerbating the challenge of finding bottles on the market. Despite these difficulties, the allure of Buffalo Trace’s exceptional taste and heritage ensures that enthusiasts continue to seek out this elusive bourbon wherever it can be found.
How much should I pay for Buffalo Trace Bourbon?
The price of Buffalo Trace Bourbon can vary depending on several factors, including location, retailer, and any prevailing market conditions. Generally, Buffalo Trace is considered a mid-range bourbon in terms of pricing, offering exceptional quality at a relatively affordable price point compared to some other premium brands. In the United States, a standard 750ml bottle of Buffalo Trace typically ranges from $25 to $40, although prices may fluctuate slightly based on local taxes and distribution. Limited edition releases or specialty bottlings may command higher prices due to their rarity and collectibility. Ultimately, the value of Buffalo Trace Bourbon lies in its exceptional taste and versatility, making it a worthwhile investment for bourbon enthusiasts seeking a high-quality drinking experience without breaking the bank.
Why is Buffalo Trace Bourbon so popular?
Buffalo Trace Bourbon has achieved widespread popularity and acclaim for several reasons. Firstly, it boasts a rich history dating back to 1773, with the Buffalo Trace Distillery being one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the United States. This heritage lends authenticity and prestige to the brand, appealing to whiskey connoisseurs and history buffs alike. Additionally, Buffalo Trace’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and traditional production methods ensures that each bottle of bourbon maintains consistent excellence. Its smooth, balanced flavor profile, characterized by notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice, has garnered a devoted following among whiskey enthusiasts. Furthermore, Buffalo Trace Bourbon offers excellent value for its quality, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, Buffalo Trace remains a beloved choice for discerning drinkers seeking a classic American bourbon experience.
How does Buffalo Trace Bourbon rank?
Buffalo Trace Bourbon consistently ranks highly among bourbon enthusiasts and critics, earning numerous awards and accolades for its exceptional quality and taste. In blind tastings and competitions, Buffalo Trace frequently competes favorably with more expensive and prestigious brands, showcasing its outstanding value and craftsmanship. Whiskey advocates praise its smooth, well-balanced flavor profile, which combines sweet caramel and vanilla notes with a subtle hint of spice. Additionally, Buffalo Trace’s affordability relative to other premium bourbons further enhances its standing in the eyes of consumers. While individual preferences may vary, Buffalo Trace remains a top choice for many bourbon enthusiasts seeking a high-quality drinking experience without breaking the bank. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, Buffalo Trace Bourbon consistently delivers excellence and remains a staple in the world of American whiskey.
How much should I pay for Buffalo Trace Bourbon?
The price of Buffalo Trace Bourbon can vary depending on several factors, including location, retailer, and any prevailing market conditions. Generally, Buffalo Trace is considered a mid-range bourbon in terms of pricing, offering exceptional quality at a relatively affordable price point compared to some other premium brands. In the United States, a standard 750ml bottle of Buffalo Trace typically ranges from $25 to $40, although prices may fluctuate slightly based on local taxes and distribution. Limited edition releases or specialty bottlings may command higher prices due to their rarity and collectibility. Ultimately, the value of Buffalo Trace Bourbon lies in its exceptional taste and versatility, making it a worthwhile investment for bourbon enthusiasts seeking a high-quality drinking experience without breaking the bank.
Why is Buffalo Trace Bourbon so popular?
Buffalo Trace Bourbon has achieved widespread popularity and acclaim for several reasons. Firstly, it boasts a rich history dating back to 1773, with the Buffalo Trace Distillery being one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the United States. This heritage lends authenticity and prestige to the brand, appealing to whiskey connoisseurs and history buffs alike. Additionally, Buffalo Trace’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and traditional production methods ensures that each bottle of bourbon maintains consistent excellence. Its smooth, balanced flavor profile, characterized by notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice, has garnered a devoted following among whiskey enthusiasts. Furthermore, Buffalo Trace Bourbon offers excellent value for its quality, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, Buffalo Trace remains a beloved choice for discerning drinkers seeking a classic American bourbon experience.
How does Buffalo Trace Bourbon rank?
Buffalo Trace Bourbon consistently ranks highly among bourbon enthusiasts and critics, earning numerous awards and accolades for its exceptional quality and taste. In blind tastings and competitions, Buffalo Trace frequently competes favorably with more expensive and prestigious brands, showcasing its outstanding value and craftsmanship. Whiskey advocates praise its smooth, well-balanced flavor profile, which combines sweet caramel and vanilla notes with a subtle hint of spice. Additionally, Buffalo Trace’s affordability relative to other premium bourbons further enhances its standing in the eyes of consumers. While individual preferences may vary, Buffalo Trace remains a top choice for many bourbon enthusiasts seeking a high-quality drinking experience without breaking the bank. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, Buffalo Trace Bourbon consistently delivers excellence and remains a staple in the world of American whiskey
In Conclusion
Buffalo Trace Bourbon isn’t merely a spirit — it’s a piece of US history. The spirit, produced at one of the oldest distilleries in the country, is rich and complex, yet smooth and mellow at the same time.
It’s a firm staple to any bourbon lover’s collection and is friendly enough for a beginner’s palate.
It’s impossible to take a sip of Bourbon Trace bourbons without being in awe of their majestic history.
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