Spirit Review | Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Neat Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Cocktail Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
And Coke Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Buffalo Trace. My favorite bourbon in the world. What greater compliment can I give? None. I am a Kentucky boy, so as they say, bourbon is in my blood. In case you're wondering, I do LOVE horse racing, fried chicken and Louisville Slugger baseball bats as well. Stereotypes exist for a reason folks. I do wear shoes though, so, some rumors will just have to remain rumors.
Brief History:
Buffalo Trace Distillery is located in Frankfort, Kentucky. Right smack in the middle of the famed bourbon trail. BTD is the oldest continuously-operating distillery in the United States. Other than Buffalo Trace, this distillery is known for many other amazing bourbons; Blanton's, Eagle Rare and perhaps its most infamous--Pappy Van Winkle. As most bourbon enthusiasts know, Pappy is a 23 year aged gem that is known for selling for well over $1,000 per bottle. In other words, this distillery knows their s**t.
For The Snob In Us:
The magic in this bottle for me is that it manages to deliver that bold bourbon punch while leaving you with a little Trace (see what I did there) of sweetness to savor on the back end. The flavors you'll find in this nectar of the Gods is heavy on spicy vanilla, caramel and cinnamon. If you close your eyes and try real hard you might even find a hint of toffee, toasty wood and brown sugar. For some of you though, it will just taste like bourbon.
What Really Matters:
Buffalo Trace is versatile. No matter how you like your bourbon, this bottle will deliver. My favorite cocktail is an Old Fashioned and BT really makes that one sing. However, I gotta tell you, nothing much beats a cigar and some Buffalo Trace and Coke while chilling on a patio enjoying a warm summer night. The spicy vanilla and cinnamon in that Coke really makes the Trace shine. Not to mention, Coca Cola is awesome, so any excuse to throw that liquid diabetes down my throat, I'm gonna do it.
Keep in mind that my palate favors the sweet. If yours is different, maybe try the aforementioned Blanton's instead. Either way, just make sure you enjoy it. Take time to take the time to really savor the things you love in life. Moreover, grab your favorite person and share what you love with them. Every. Chance. You get.
-B