Buffalo Trace Distillery stands as a cornerstone of American bourbon heritage—located in Frankfort, Kentucky, on a site where distillation has persisted uninterrupted since 1775, making it the oldest continuously operating distillery in the United States. Its name pays homage to a historic buffalo migration route, a rugged trace across the Kentucky River once followed by massive bison herds and later by settlers, reflecting both the spirit’s frontier origins and its deep connection to the land.

Across more than two centuries, Buffalo Trace has endured wars, floods, tornadoes, and the Great Depression, and remarkably, it never ceased production during Prohibition. The distillery was among the few granted permission to produce whiskey for medicinal purposes, a decision that preserved not only its own legacy but also a vital link to America’s bourbon tradition. Under the guidance of Colonel E. H. Taylor Jr.—celebrated as the "Father of the Modern Bourbon Industry"—the distillery became a hub of innovation, introducing steam-heated warehouses, copper fermentation tanks, and advancements in sour mash techniques that would influence bourbon-making for generations.

Throughout its history, visionaries have shaped Buffalo Trace’s identity. Albert B. Blanton skillfully led the distillery through the challenges of Prohibition and the Depression, while George T. Stagg helped expand its reach and reputation in the 19th century. In the modern era, Elmer T. Lee left an indelible mark when he created Blanton’s, the world’s first single-barrel bourbon, igniting the premium bourbon movement. Their legacy has been honored with namesake labels that remain among the most respected and sought-after whiskies in the world. This dedication to excellence has brought Buffalo Trace international acclaim, including recognition as the first American distillery to be named “Distillery of the Year” by Whisky Advocate and its designation as a National Historic Landmark in 2013.

Today, Buffalo Trace’s portfolio encompasses some of the most iconic names in bourbon and rye, including Pappy Van Winkle, W.L. Weller, Eagle Rare, George T. Stagg, and Elmer T. Lee. At the same time, the distillery continues to look to the future with projects like the Experimental Collection and Warehouse X, where every variable of whiskey-making—from wood grain to climate—is explored with scientific precision. This balance of tradition and experimentation ensures Buffalo Trace remains both a steward of history and a driver of innovation.