Buffalo Trace Whiskey Price: How Much Does a Bottle Cost?

Published October 30, 2023 | By jesuspreciado789

When it comes to attaining a bottle of Buffalo Trace, price can vary based on several factors. Factors including bottle size, retailer, geographic location, demand and availability. For example, Buffalo Trace Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey price has been steadily increasing over the years due to its growing popularity and high demand. In some areas, a bottle of Buffalo Trace Whiskey price can be as high as $60 or more.

It is a highly sought-after bourbon and can be difficult to find in some areas. In these cases, retailers may charge a premium price for the product. They release limited edition bourbons and offer a variety of bourbons at different ages, ranging from 6 to 23 years that often exceed $100. Generally, the older the bourbon, the higher the price. For instance, a bottle of Buffalo Trace’s 23-year-old bourbon can cost upwards of $2,000.

The whiskey is made in small batches, which adds to its exclusivity and appeal. Some stores may offer discounts or promotions, while others don’t, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for deals. But on average, a 750ml bottle of Buffalo Trace may cost anywhere from $25 to $40.

The Significance of the Buffalo Trace Mash Bill and Aging Process

buffalo trace mash bill. corn, rye, and malted barley around a whiskey barrel

The brand is known for its rich and complex flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice. They are able to achieve this through a combination of factors that include the Buffalo Trace mash bill and aging process as well as other factors.

The exact proportions of these grains are not disclosed by the distillery, but in order to be classified as bourbon, the mash bill must contain at least 51% corn. This is a critical component in bourbon production because it is a pivotal role in shaping the flavor profile of Buffalo Trace.

Buffalo Trace’s aging process varies. The focus is on the flavor profile of their bourbon rather than the aging time. They use taste, rather than time to determine when their bourbon is ready. The barrels are sampled regularly to assess their quality and readiness. The master distiller determines when the bourbon has reached its peak flavor and is ready to be bottled. This allows them to achieve a consistent flavor profile.

If you find yourself drawn to this exceptional bourbon, you might be curious about where you can acquire a bottle for yourself. We talk about the intricacies of Buffalo Trace whiskey price, exploring various bottle sizes and providing invaluable tips on where to make your purchase.

History of Buffalo Trace Whiskey

old farmhouse with buffalo roaming around the front.

Buffalo Trace, a renowned name in the world of bourbon whiskey, has acquired praise for its exquisite blend of flavors and smooth finish. They have a rich history dating back to the late 1700s. The distillery was originally named Old Fire Copper (O.F.C.) Distillery and was established in 1773 by Hancock Lee. The distillery was later sold to George T. Stagg in 1870, who renamed it to George T. Stagg Distillery. In 1904, the distillery was sold to Edmund H. Taylor Jr., who renamed it to the Old Taylor Distillery.

During the Prohibition era, the distillery was shut down and used for other purposes. However, in 1933, it was reopened under the name George T. Stagg Distillery. In 1952, the distillery was sold to a group of investors who renamed it to the Ancient Age Distillery. In 1992, the distillery was renamed again to Buffalo Trace Distillery, which is its current name.

Over the years they have won numerous awards including the World Whiskies Award for “World’s Best Bourbon” in 2019 and 2020. With a legacy dating back to the late 1700s, Buffalo Trace has stood the test of time, captivating whiskey enthusiasts around the globe. Producing bourbon for over 200 years and is one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the United States.

Today, Buffalo Trace Distillery produces a range of bourbon and also produces a straight rye whiskey under the Buffalo Trace brand, which is made from Buffalo Trace mash bill consisting mostly of rye grain. Rye whiskey tends to have a spicier and fruitier flavor profile compared to bourbon.

field and distillery

Production Process

1. Mash Bill: The first step in making Buffalo Trace Whiskey is to create a mash bill, which is a mixture of grains that will be used to create the whiskey. The mash bill for Buffalo Trace Whiskey includes corn, rye, and malted barley.

2. Cooking: Once the mash bill has been created, it is cooked to break down the starches and release the sugars. The cooking process involves adding hot water to the mash bill and then heating it to a specific temperature.

3. Fermentation: After cooking, the mash is transferred to fermenters where yeast is added to begin the fermentation process. The yeast consumes the sugars in the mash and converts them into alcohol. The fermentation process takes between three and five days.

4. Distillation: Once fermentation is complete, the mash is distilled in copper stills. Buffalo Trace Whiskey is distilled twice, which helps to refine the flavor and remove impurities.

5. Aging: After distillation, the bourbon is aged in new, charred oak barrels for at least 4 years, the legal requirement for bourbon is that if it is aged less than 4 years the bottle must have an age statement. which gives it a deep, rich flavor. The barrels used for aging are made from American white oak and are charred on the inside to help impart flavor and color to the whiskey.

6. Blending: Once the whiskey has been aged, it is blended to create the final product. The blending process involves combining whiskeys from different barrels to create a consistent flavor profile.

Overall, the production process of Buffalo Trace Whiskey is a careful and deliberate process that takes time and expertise to execute properly.

Tasting Notes of Buffalo Trace Whiskey

Tasting is a personal experience, and different people might pick up on different notes in the whiskey. Your experience with Buffalo Trace Bourbon may differ slightly based on your palate and the specific bottle you’re tasting. Additionally, the flavor can be influenced by how the bourbon is served, whether neat, with water, or on the rocks.

Specific tasting notes can also vary from one batch or bottle to another. But here are some flavor characteristics.

Nose (Aroma):

Sweetness: Notes of caramel, vanilla, and brown sugar.
Fruitiness: Hints of dark fruit, such as cherries and plum.
Spiciness: A touch of spice, possibly from the rye in the mash bill.
Oak: The influence of the charred oak barrels, adding a woody aroma.

Palate (Taste):

Caramel and Vanilla: A rich sweetness from caramel and vanilla.
Fruit: Some fruity notes, which include dark fruits and citrus.
Spice: A warming spice, often attributed to the rye content and the aging process in charred oak barrels.
Oak: A woody flavor, contributing to the bourbon’s complexity.
Mouthfeel: Smooth, with a medium body

Finish:

Length: The flavors tend to linger, providing a medium to long finish.
Sweetness and Spice: A balance of sweetness and spice, with a warming sensation.
Oak: A lasting impression of the charred oak barrels.

Overall Impression:

Buffalo Trace Bourbon is well -balanced sweetness to spiciness and has richness and complexity. It provides a classic bourbon experience, showcasing the sweetness from the corn, the spice from the rye, and the depth of flavor developed during the aging process in charred oak barrels.

It’s a versatile bourbon that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It can be sipped neat, on the rocks, or used as a base for cocktails. Its unique flavor profile also makes it a great pairing for a variety of foods, including grilled meats, smoked fish, and aged cheeses. Great choice for bourbon lovers looking for a smooth and well-balanced flavor profile.

Comparing Buffalo Trace Whiskey with Other Brands

3 bottles that are different sizes of buffalo trace whiskey

When it comes to American whiskey, Buffalo Trace is a well-known brand that has gained a reputation for producing quality spirits. However, it’s not the only brand out there, and you may be wondering how the Buffalo Trace Whiskey price compares to other whiskey brands in terms of price and quality.

First, the term “top shelf”, can depend on individual preferences, and influenced by factors like availability, rarity, and regional preferences. There are many other bourbons and whiskeys in the world, each with its own unique characteristics and qualities, so what one person considers top shelf might differ from another person’s opinion.

“Top shelf” typically refers to premium or luxury spirits that are among the best in their category and are often priced accordingly. Buffalo Trace is not as expensive as some of the high-end brands like Pappy Van Winkle or Blanton’s, but it’s also not as cheap as some of the lower-end brands like Evan Williams or Jim Beam.

Mid-Shelf, High-Quality

When it comes to price, Buffalo Trace whiskey price is generally in the $25-$40 range for a 750ml bottle. This puts it in the same price range as mid-range brands like Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, and Four Roses.

There are some lower-end brands that are cheaper than Buffalo Trace, such as Old Grand Dad and Rebel Yell. However, these brands may not have the same level of quality and flavor as Buffalo Trace.

On the other hand, there are some higher-end brands that are more expensive than Buffalo Trace, such as Angel’s Envy and Basil Hayden’s. These brands may have more complex flavor profiles and higher quality ingredients, but they also come with a higher price tag.

Buffalo Trace Bourbon is certainly a respected brand and has a long history of craftsmanship and attention to detail in the whiskey-making process. Despite its high quality, Buffalo Trace is often priced reasonably compared to other premium bourbons, offering good value for money. Top Shelf is debatable, but you can’t argue about it being a high-quality bourbon.

Buffalo Trace Whiskey Price of Different Bottle Sizes

3 bottles that are different sizes of buffalo trace whiskey

Whiskey is typically available in a variety of bottle sizes, each serving different purposes and preferences. Buffalo Trace Bourbon is commonly found in 750ml bottles, but availability in other sizes vary.

Limited editions and special releases may come in different sizes and/or packaging. When shopping for Buffalo Trace Bourbon, it’s important to consider the bottle size that best suits your needs and budget. Here’s a breakdown of the bottle sizes you will see with Buffalo Trace:

1. Miniature (50ml)

Also Known As: Mini, Nip, or Shooter
Common Use: Often used for single servings of alcohol in airlines, hotels, or as samples.
Equivalent: Approximately one standard shot.
Price Range: $4 – $7
Ideal for those who want to try Buffalo Trace without committing to a full bottle.

2. Half Pint (200ml)

Also Known As: Demi or Half
Common Use: A convenient size for individual consumption, often used for gifting or as a trial size.
Equivalent: Approximately four standard shots.
Price Range: $10 – $15
A small, convenient size for personal consumption or as a gift.

3. Pint (375ml)

Also Known As: Flask size
Common Use: A portable size that’s easy to carry, often used for personal consumption.
Equivalent: Approximately eight standard shots.
Price Range: $15 – $25
Portable and easy to carry, suitable for individual consumption.

4. Fifth (750ml)

Also Known As: Standard Bottle
Common Use: The most common size for spirits, available at most liquor stores.
Equivalent: Approximately 16 standard shots or 25.4 ounces, making it one-fifth of a gallon.
Price Range: $25 – $40
The most common size available at most liquor stores.

5. Liter (1000ml)

Also Known As: Litre (in countries using the metric system)
Common Use: Often found in duty-free shops and some liquor stores; provides more volume than the standard bottle.
Equivalent: Approximately 22 standard shots.
Price Range: $35 – $50
Offers more volume than the standard bottle, often found in duty-free shops and some liquor stores.

6. Magnum (1.5L)

Also Known As: Magnum
Common Use: Used for larger gatherings or parties, often seen as a more impressive gift due to its size.
Equivalent: Approximately 33 standard shots.
Price Range: $50 – $80
Suitable for larger gatherings, parties, or as an impressive gift.

7. Handle (1.75L)

Also Known As: Handle
Common Use: Commonly used for popular or well-known brands; the size makes it cost-effective for regular drinkers of a particular spirit.
Equivalent: Approximately 39 standard shots, named for the handle often found on bottles of this size.
Price Range: $60 – $100
A cost-effective option for regular drinkers of Buffalo Trace, with a handle for easy pouring.

8. Double Magnum (3L)

Also Known As: Jeroboam in Champagne
Common Use: Used for larger gatherings, celebrations, or as a display bottle in bars.
Equivalent: Approximately 66 standard shots.
Price Range: $100 – $200
Typically used for larger gatherings, celebrations, or as a display item in bars.

Buffalo Trace, Where to Buy Craftmanship!

buffalo trace craftmanship bottle of whiskey and a whiskey glasses.

If you’re looking to buy a bottle of this premium whiskey, you have a few options.

Local Liquor Stores

The first place to check for Buffalo Trace whiskey is your local liquor store. Many liquor stores carry this popular brand, but availability may vary depending on your location. You can call ahead to check if they have it in stock or ask if they can order it for you.

Online Retailers

If you can’t find Buffalo Trace whiskey at your local liquor store, you can also try online retailers. There are many online stores that sell this brand, including major retailers like Amazon and Total Wine. However, keep in mind that shipping laws vary by state, so you may not be able to have it shipped to your location.

High-Quality Bourbon

Distillery Gift Shop

If you’re lucky enough to live near the Buffalo Trace distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, you can visit their gift shop to purchase Buffalo Trace whiskey. The distillery also offers tours and tastings, so you can learn more about the history of this iconic brand while you’re there.

Product Locator- Their locator will provide possible locations where you may find their products.

Auction Sites

Another option for purchasing Buffalo Trace whiskey is through auction sites like eBay. However, be cautious when buying alcohol through these sites, as there is a risk of purchasing counterfeit or expired products.

Ensuring Authenticity of a Bottle

Ensuring the authenticity of a bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon (or any whiskey) is crucial, especially given the prevalence of counterfeit spirits in the market. Here are some tips and things to look for to help guarantee that you are purchasing an authentic product:

1. Buy from Reputable Retailers:

Authorized Liquor Stores: Purchase from well-known and reputable liquor stores.
Official Distributors: Check Buffalo Trace’s official website or contact them directly to find authorized distributors in your area.
Avoid Shady Sellers: Be wary of buying from individuals on secondary markets, as the risk of counterfeits is higher.

2. Examine the Packaging:

Seal Integrity: Ensure that the bottle is properly sealed, and the cap is not tampered with. The seal should be intact and unbroken.
Label Quality: Authentic bottles have high-quality labels with no spelling errors, smudges, or misalignments.
Batch and Bottle Information: Look for batch numbers, bottling dates, or other identifying information that can be verified.

3. Check the Liquid:

Color Consistency: The color of the whiskey should be consistent with no floating particles.
Bottle Fill Level: The liquid should reach the correct fill level for the bottle size.
No Signs of Tampering: Ensure that there are no signs of tampering with the liquid inside.

4. Price Check:

Too Good to Be True: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Counterfeiters often sell fake products at lower prices to attract buyers.
Market Price: Familiarize yourself with the market price of Buffalo Trace Bourbon to have a better understanding of what you should be paying.

5. Verify with the Distillery:

Contact Buffalo Trace: If you have any doubts about the authenticity of a bottle, you can contact Buffalo Trace directly with the batch number or other identifying information to verify its authenticity.

6. Avoid Counterfeit Hotspots:

Be Cautious in High-Risk Areas: Some regions or countries are known for having higher incidences of counterfeit spirits. Exercise extra caution when purchasing in these areas.

High-risk areas for counterfeit spirits, including whiskey like Buffalo Trace, can vary widely and may depend on regional enforcement of alcohol regulations, market demand, and other factors. Here are some general examples and contexts where the risk might be higher:

A. Online Marketplaces:

Peer-to-Peer Sales: Websites or platforms where individuals can sell items directly to other individuals (e.g., eBay, Craigslist) can have higher risks of counterfeit products.

B. Non-Reputable Retailers:

Unlicensed Liquor Stores: Stores that do not have proper licensing may be selling counterfeit or illegally obtained products.
Tourist Trap Shops: In some tourist-heavy areas, shops may sell counterfeit goods to take advantage of uninformed visitors.

C. Certain Countries or Regions:

Lack of Regulation: Countries or regions with less stringent alcohol regulations or enforcement may have higher incidences of counterfeit spirits.
High Demand, Low Supply: Areas where the demand for premium spirits like Buffalo Trace Bourbon outstrips supply may see higher counterfeit activity.

D. Street Vendors or Informal Sellers:

Unofficial Channels: Purchasing from street vendors or informal sellers significantly increases the risk of encountering counterfeit products.

E. Duty-Free Shops in Certain Airports:

Verify Authenticity: While many duty-free shops are reputable, it’s still important to verify the authenticity of the products, especially in airports with less stringent controls.

F. Bars or Restaurants with Questionable Practices:

Refilling Bottles: Some establishments might refill premium spirit bottles with lower-quality products. Ensure you are at a reputable venue.

By following these guidelines and being vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risk of purchasing a counterfeit bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon. Always prioritize your safety, and when in doubt, seek verification or opt to purchase from a more reliable source.

How to Minimize Risk:

Research: Before making a purchase, especially in a high-risk area, do your research on the retailer or seller.
Ask for Documentation: Reputable sellers should be able to provide documentation or information verifying the authenticity of their products.
Trust Your Instincts: If something seems off or too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and exercise caution.

Being aware of these high-risk contexts and taking proactive steps to verify the authenticity of your purchase can help ensure that you are getting a genuine product. Enjoying spirits responsibly and safely should always be the top priority.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Buffalo Trace whiskey is a premium bourbon whiskey that has gained worldwide recognition for its unique taste and quality and overall craftmanship.

If you are looking for a high-quality bourbon whiskey that is reasonably priced, Buffalo Trace whiskey is an excellent choice. It is a smooth and flavorful whiskey that is perfect for sipping or mixing in cocktails.

Overall, Buffalo Trace whiskey price is an excellent value, and it is no surprise that it has become one of the most popular bourbons in the world. So, if you have not tried Buffalo Trace whiskey yet, you should definitely give it a try.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked questions

Where can I find Buffalo Trace Whiskey near me?

Buffalo Trace Whiskey is a popular brand, and it can be found at many liquor stores across the United States. To find a store near you that carries Buffalo Trace, you can use their store locator tool on their website here.

What is the review of Buffalo Trace Bourbon?

Buffalo Trace Bourbon is highly regarded and has received numerous awards for its quality and taste. It has a smooth and complex flavor profile with notes of vanilla, butterscotch, caramel, and oak. The fruitiness hints of apple and pears. Gentle spiciness of black pepper and cinnamon and nuttiness undertones of pecans and almonds. Many reviewers praise its balance and overall drinkability.

What is Buffalo Trace whiskey price for their Bourbon at Total Wine?

Buffalo Trace whiskey price at Total Wine may vary depending on your location and the current market demand. However, as of the time of writing, the average price for a 750ml bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon at Total Wine is $23.99.

What is Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream?

Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream is a popular cream liqueur made with Buffalo Trace Bourbon and fresh cream. It has a smooth and sweet flavor profile with notes of vanilla and caramel. It can be enjoyed on its own or used as a delicious addition to cocktails and desserts.

Is Buffalo Trace Bourbon sold at Costco?

Buffalo Trace Bourbon may be sold at select Costco locations, but availability may vary by store. It is always best to check with your local Costco to see if they carry Buffalo Trace Bourbon.