Buffalo Trace looks to stave off the competition by by trying new and unique ways of aging their whiskey. The Frankfort, KY-based distillery recently released its latest round in its experimental whiskey collection, two bourbons aged for more than nine years in barrels made from oak staves seasoned for three and four years.
The bourbons, filled with Buffalo Trace’s mash recipe #1, were put away to age on October 27, 2009 in new barrels with staves that were seasoned for 36 months and 48 months. Most barrel staves air dry for six months, but these were allowed to season for much longer in hopes the barrels would offer a unique flavor.
“Although the taste difference is slight between the two experiments, these whiskeys taste different than our flagship Buffalo Trace bourbon,” stated Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley. “The 48 month seasoned stave barrels created a more mellow taste and holds less flavor from the wood. The 36 month seasoned stave bourbon is a little more flavorful with oak notes and caramel present
This is the 22nd experimental release from Buffalo Trace, having started with its first experimental release in 2006. In total, there are more than 22,000 experimental barrels of whiskey aging in their warehouses, the largest number of experimental barrels ever held in inventory at the National Historic Landmark Distillery. Each experimental barrel has unique characteristics that differentiate them in distinct ways. Some examples of experiments include unique mash bills, types of wood, and different barrel toasts.
In order to further increase the scope, flexibility, and range of the experimental program, an entire micro distillery, named The Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. “OFC” Micro Distillery. Buffalo Trace has also increased its commitment to experimentation with the recent addition of its Warehouse X. Although small in size, Warehouse X is designed to explore the extent of environmental influences on the flavor profiles of whiskey.
The Experimental Collection, sold in a two pack case so consumers can evaluate the two and compare taste differences for themselves, is packaged in 375ml bottles and each label includes all the pertinent information unique to that barrel of whiskey. These whiskeys retail for approximately $46.35 each.
