Buffalo trace private tour
Today we talk about Buffalo trace private tour.
Tour Overview
When I first arrived at Buffalo Trace Distillery for my private tour, I was immediately drawn to the stunning architecture built in the 1800s. This distillery is not just famous for its bourbons but also for its rich heritage. As one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the United States, it has been producing quality spirits for over 240 years. The anticipation I felt promised an extraordinary experience ahead.
What to Expect During the Tour
During my private tour at Buffalo Trace, I was amazed by the insights shared by my guide. Here’s what I encountered:
- A look into the fermentation process, including specifics about the 75% corn mash bill used in their award-winning bourbon recipes.
- Details about their barrel aging process, which typically lasts 4-12 years, contributing to the distinct flavors of their offerings.
- The chance to taste some rare releases, with nearly 99% of bottles produced being sold through their distillery or select retailers.
- A guided walk through the aging warehouses, where over 12,000 barrels age, producing some of the finest bourbons known worldwide.
Tour Details
The Trace Tour
The Trace Tour, lasting about 90 minutes, provided a comprehensive look at the bourbon-making process. I was especially fascinated to learn that Buffalo Trace produces more than 21 labels, including the legendary Pappy Van Winkle, which often sees waiting lists exceeding three years.
Tour & Tasting Options
Buffalo Trace’s private tour offered several tailored tasting choices that catered to my preferences:
- The classic bourbon tasting, featuring standard offerings such as Buffalo Trace Bourbon, which has an average rating of 90 points from Whisky Advocate.
- Specialty tastings of limited-edition releases like George T. Stagg, often fetching over $1000 at auction.
- A unique pairing experience with artisan chocolates that complemented the tasting notes of the bourbons.
Types of Tours Available
I was delighted to find a range of tour options at Buffalo Trace to fit various interests:
- The Signature Trace Tour, providing a solid foundation of knowledge about their flagship products.
- The Bourbon Distillation Tour, diving deeper into the technical aspects of distilling.
- The Hard Hat Tour, ideal for aficionados seeking an intimate understanding of barrel-aged processes.
Plan Your Visit
Hours of Operation
Knowing the hours of operation was essential for planning; Buffalo Trace runs tours every day except major holidays, with tours starting from 10 AM to 4:30 PM. This flexibility ensured that I could find a time that worked perfectly for my schedule.
Driving Directions
Buffalo Trace Distillery is conveniently located just off US-60 in Frankfort, Kentucky. I used my GPS and followed the scenic route that took me through beautiful countryside, enhancing my overall experience as I anticipated my tour.
Parking Directions
Upon arrival, I found ample parking available right near the distillery entrance, making it easy to start my journey without any hiccups.
Purchasing and Tasting at Buffalo Trace Distillery
What’s Included in the Tour
The Buffalo Trace private tour package included several enriching components; I received a breakdown of the distillation process, a guided tasting session, and even a souvenir glass. Overall, I felt the affordable fee of $10 provided exceptional value.
Reservations and Costs
Reservations were a breeze, allowing me to secure a spot online for my private tour. I learned that most tours range from $10 to $50, depending on the experience selected, with specialty tastings generally costing a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Bring?
I recommend bringing your valid ID, comfortable shoes for walking around the distillery, and a camera to capture this unforgettable journey into the heart of bourbon production.
Are Children Allowed?
While Buffalo Trace welcomes visitors of all ages, children are only allowed on tours where bourbon tasting is not involved, ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere.
Cancellation Policy
I found the cancellation policy to be quite accommodating, allowing changes to my reservation with adequate notice, which added peace of mind to my travel plans.
Additional Visitor Information
Accessibility Information
Buffalo Trace Distillery is committed to accessibility; I noticed ramps and accommodations for those who may have mobility challenges, ensuring everyone could enjoy the tour fully.
Photography Guidelines
I was thrilled to learn that photography was allowed throughout the tour, particularly during tastings, making it easy to document the beautiful surroundings and moments.
George T. Stagg Gallery and Gift Shop
Gift Shop Hours
The gift shop operates daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, which aligned perfectly with my tour schedule, allowing ample time to browse.
Specialty Products Available
The gift shop boasted a variety of exclusive products, ranging from limited-edition bourbons that could be purchased only on-site to distillery-themed apparel and glassware.
Explore Similar Tours
Recommendations for Other Distilleries
If you’re seeking to expand your bourbon experience beyond Buffalo Trace, I highly recommend visiting Woodford Reserve and Four Roses distilleries, both of which are renowned for their unique production techniques and flavors.
Tour Packages and Group Discounts
For those planning a group visit, Buffalo Trace offers discounts on tour packages for groups of 10 or more, making it an excellent destination for a day out with friends or a celebration.
Traveler Testimonials
Recent Reviews
As I browsed through recent reviews, the overwhelmingly positive feedback indicated that visitors appreciated the knowledgeable staff and the immersive experience, echoing my sentiments perfectly.
Traveler Photos
Visitors enthusiastically shared their incredible experiences on social media, showcasing stunning photos of their own tastings and picturesque distillery grounds.
Contact Information
Customer Care and Support
Buffalo Trace’s customer service was highly responsive; I reached out with a few questions prior to my visit and received prompt, informative replies.
Follow Us on Social Media
By following Buffalo Trace on social media, I kept myself updated with their latest releases and events, fostering a deeper connection with this incredible distillery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost for a Buffalo Trace tour?
The cost for a Buffalo Trace tour typically ranges from $10 to $50 based on the specific tour type, offering various experiences for bourbon enthusiasts like me.
Why is Buffalo Trace hard to find now?
Buffalo Trace bourbons have become a high-demand product; limited production runs, combined with global interest, mean that acquiring certain labels can require patience and effort.
Who is the famous Buffalo Trace employee?
The late Elmer T. Lee stands out as a legendary figure at Buffalo Trace, known for his role in developing many of their signature offerings and enhancing the distillery’s reputation.
How long is the Old Taylor tour at Buffalo Trace Distillery?
The Old Taylor tour typically lasts about one hour, providing guests with engaging historical context and insights into the distilling process at Buffalo Trace.