Buffalo Trace has been enjoying a global reputation for its quality, which is evident because it is one of the most acclaimed bourbons in history.
Whiskeys from Buffalo Trace are made from superior ingredients and innovative production processes- such a timeless craft.
But how long is Buffalo Trace aged?
Let’s take a closer look at the Buffalo Trace’s aging process and how it affects the premium taste of the spirit.
All About Buffalo Trace’s Age
All bourbons should be aged for at least two years in new charred oak barrels to be labeled as one [1], and Buffalo Trace is not exempted. However, since Buffalo Trace whiskeys do not bear an age statement, there are rumors about how long it is aged.
Some believe that Buffalo Trace is aged for a minimum of 2 years, while others believe that the whiskey is aged for at least four years in oak barrels.
Others claim that Buffalo Trace is matured for 7-8 years, and some say it is aged for 9-10 years. Also, why is Buffalo Trace bourbon difficult to find?
Buffalo Trace’s Rumored Age Statements
Minimum of 2 Years
Based on the assumption of most bourbon lovers, Buffalo Trace is aged for a minimum of two years, and that can be true.
It is a fact that Buffalo Trace, being a bourbon whiskey, is aged for a minimum of 2 years because that is a requirement by the US Congress to be considered as a bourbon.
However, since Buffalo Trace does not have an age statement, it does not contain a blend of whiskey that is as young as two years. But is Buffalo Trace gluten-free?
Minimum of 4 Years
Another rumor about the Buffalo Trace’s aging is that the whiskey is matured for a minimum of 4 years in new charred oak barrels.
Again, whiskey with a minimum of 4 years of aging can be true because most bourbons are aged above their minimum aging requirement.
However, some whiskey enthusiasts may disagree that Buffalo Trace bourbon has a blend of whiskey aged for four years.
Based on its tasting notes and appearance, Buffalo Trace is aged longer than four years.
7 – 8 Years
Buffalo Trace is believed to have aged for 7-8 years in charred oak barrels before bottling.
It can be true because of three possible reasons: (1) It has no age statement, (2) it is a blended whiskey drawn from 25-30 barrels not younger than four years, and (3) great flavor profile.
Based on its appearance and premium tasting notes, it can aged for 7-8 years.
Also, based on Paste Magazine, the flagship bottle of Buffalo Trace is aged for at least eight years and was described to have a great flavor profile.
9 – 10 Years
Some websites claim that Buffalo Trace is aged for 9-10 years, which could be a long time for an entry-level bourbon like Buffalo Trace.
Based on Modern Thirst, Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley mentioned that the Buffalo Trace is aged around nine years before bottling.
Buffalo Trace Bourbon’s Maturation Process
The maturation process in new charred oak barrels is important to Buffalo Trace because it gives the spirit its color and unique flavor on its own.
However, Buffalo Trace believes that aging and location impact the maturation process of the spirit.
Since aging halts in colder climates and faster in warmer climates, Buffalo Trace embraced another innovation in whiskey production by using climate-controlled rickhouses.
It will help retain more whiskey fruit flavor and keep the unappealing wooden notes with over-aged bourbons at bay. But is Buffalo Trace wheated bourbon?
Does It Carry An Official Age Statement?
Buffalo Trace bourbon whiskey does not carry an official age statement. As you can see, the bottles are not labeled with an age statement since adding an age statement is voluntary in whiskeys matured above four years.
Since Buffalo Trace does not carry an age statement, it is proved that it does not contain whiskey younger than four years. Check out our favorite Buffalo Trace bourbon cream recipes here.
Does Age Matter In Buffalo Trace Bourbon?
Yes, age matters in Buffalo Trace bourbon. Every step in Buffalo Trace’s bourbon making is important, and aging is a vital factor that gives bourbon its developing flavor profile.
Aside from time, Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley says that the environment or location of maturation (rickhouses) is as important as aging.
FAQs Related to How Long is Buffalo Trace Aged?
Is Buffalo Trace bourbon’s age too young?
No, Buffalo Trace bourbon’s age is not too young. It is above the aging requirement of bourbon whiskey (2 years), so it cannot be considered too young. However, some whiskey enthusiasts find its flavor profile young.
Should Buffalo Trace be aged longer to become smoother?
No, there’s no need for Buffalo Trace to be aged longer for it to become smoother. The smoothness of whiskey is a matter of taste, and the sweet spot for bourbon age is 8-12 years.
What contributes to the aging process of Buffalo Trace bourbon?
During aging, Buffalo Trace bourbon interacts with the charred oak barrels it’s stored in, which imparts flavors such as caramel, vanilla, and oak. The duration of aging allows the bourbon to develop its unique taste and complexity.
Does Buffalo Trace produce any bourbons with different aging periods?
While Buffalo Trace Bourbon is typically aged for a minimum of eight years, the distillery also produces other expressions with varying aging periods. These may include Buffalo Trace Single Barrel Select or limited edition releases with longer aging.
What impact does aging have on the flavor of Buffalo Trace bourbon?
Aging in oak barrels allows Buffalo Trace bourbon to develop flavors such as caramel, toffee, spice, and oak. The longer aging period contributes to a smoother and more complex flavor profile.
Are there any regulations governing the aging of bourbon, including Buffalo Trace?
Yes, to be labeled as bourbon, the spirit must be aged in new charred oak barrels. While there is no minimum aging requirement for bourbon, Buffalo Trace chooses to age its bourbon for a minimum of eight years to achieve the desired flavor profile.
Can the aging process of Buffalo Trace bourbon vary between batches?
Yes, while Buffalo Trace aims for consistency in its products, variations can occur due to factors such as barrel placement, warehouse conditions, and aging environment. These variations can lead to subtle differences in flavor between batches.
Final Thoughts
Buffalo Trace is aged for 7-9 years in new charred oak barrels, and its age is vital because it gives the bourbon its flavor profile and identity.
Each barrel of Buffalo Trace is aged gracefully and uniquely using the traditional methods and innovative maturation process.
Each bottle of Buffalo Trace is truly a timeless craft that honors tradition and embraces change.
References:
- https://www.cnbc.com/2015/06/04/5-rules-that-make-it-bourbon.html
- https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/27/5.40
