The Great Story Behind Buffalo Trace: A Legacy of American Whisky

Buffalo Trace is a name synonymous with the rich history and tradition of American whisky. Its story is one of lineage, resilience, and innovation, tracing back to the 19th century and beyond. This article unravels the fascinating tale behind Buffalo Trace and celebrates the remarkable journey of one of America's most respected liquor brands.

Origins: From Family Businesses to Legendary Craftsmen

The foundation of Buffalo Trace's legacy began with a few pivotal figures and businesses that laid the groundwork for its future success. In the late 1840s, William Larue Weller developed a commercially viable recipe for wheated bourbon in Kentucky. Weller's use of wheat instead of rye in his bourbon and his own distribution company were groundbreaking moments that have echoed through the centuries.

The Rise of the Sazerac

At the same time, in New Orleans, the popular Sazerac Coffee House was known for making the iconic Sazerac cocktail. The original recipe used Cognac bitters and Absinthe rinse. However, a grape blight and Cognac stock depletion led to Thomas Handy substituting rye whiskey for cognac. This innovation helped the Sazerac Bar become a legend and led to Handy founding The Sazerac Company after the Civil War.

Modernization and Legacy

In 1870, Edmund Taylor purchased an old distillery and modernized it with copper stills, naming it the OFC Distillery (Old Fired Copper). By 1897, he had sold it to George Stagg, who renamed it GTS (George T. Stagg) and hired Albert Blanton, a young office boy, in 1897. Meanwhile, in 1893, Julian Van Winkle, known as 'Pappy' to his friends, hired salesmen like Julian W. Van Winkle II, who went on to merge the Stitzel and Weller distilleries, thus creating a powerhouse in the whiskey industry.

Advancements and Influences

The legacy of these craftsmen continued into the early 20th century. In 1897, the U.S. Congress passed the Bottled in Bond act, which served to protect legitimate Bourbon distillers. This act was partly due to the lobbying efforts of Edmund Taylor. Julian Van Winkle was one of those who benefited, buying the Weller company in 1908 and acquiring the Stitzel distillery in 1910. By 1921, Albert Blanton became President of GTS, leading the company into new eras of innovation and leadership.

Modernizing Ideas and Innovations

In 1949, Elmer T. Lee joined Blanton's and later introduced single-barrel whiskey, changing the game with unique flavors like Blanton's. In the mid-1980s, William Goldring bought the Sazerac company and later renamed the GTS to Buffalo Trace in 1992. This move marked a significant step in the brand's evolution, embracing the rich history while modernizing its processes.

Present and Future

Today, Buffalo Trace stands as a testament to resilience and innovation. Its products like E.H. Taylor Bourbon and Rye honor the legacy of early distillers. Brands like Blanton's, Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel, Rock Hill Farm Single Barrel, and George T. Stagg Antique Bourbon all continue to push the boundaries of production, ensuring that Buffalo Trace remains at the forefront of premium whisky.

Family Legacy and Ownership

Many of the legendary brands produced by Buffalo Trace are managed by the third and fourth generations of founding families, including the Van Winkles and Maker’s Mark. The Sazerac company itself remains family-owned, continuing the tradition of crafting exceptional American whisky.

Conclusion

Buffalo Trace's rich history and continual innovations make it a true gem in the world of American whisky. From its humble beginnings with Weller and Stitzel to the modern-day impact of Elmer T. Lee and others, the story of Buffalo Trace is a celebration of American craftsmanship and heritage.

Buffalo Trace continues to innovate and evolve, ensuring that its legacy of fine whisky will endure for generations to come. Whether you are a whisky enthusiast or a collector, Buffalo Trace offers a unique journey into the heart of American distillery history.