The Weekly Pour: Buffalo Trace & The Best Bourbons Under $50

Whiskey lovers, it’s that time again. We’ve been ranking the best bourbons under $50, and today, we’re talking about a true classic—Buffalo Trace.

So far, we’ve revealed:
🥃 #5: Old Forester 100—Big flavor, small price. Read it here
🥃 #4: Four Roses Small Batch—Smooth, balanced, and worth every penny. Read it here

Today, it’s time for #3: Buffalo Trace—a bottle that never disappoints.

🔥 DEAL ALERT: 15% Off Buffalo Trace Right Now

If you love a good deal (and who doesn’t?), Buffalo Trace is currently 15% off at Craft Spirit Shop—meaning you can stock your bar with three 750ml bottles for just under $100. That’s what we call smart bourbon shopping. 🍀

And in the next two weeks? We’re revealing the top two bourbons under $50. Place your bets now. 😉

The Weekly Pour: Buffalo Trace – A Bourbon That Always Delivers

Buffalo Trace is one of those bourbons that just works—whether you’re sipping it neat, mixing it into a cocktail, or introducing a friend to bourbon for the first time.

🔹 Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Vanilla, caramel, and a little spice

• Palate: Butterscotch, toffee, a hint of cinnamon

• Finish: Smooth and lingering, with a soft oakiness

It’s got depth, but it’s approachable. Smooth, but with just enough kick. In short? A whiskey shelf essential.

Distiller’s Diary: The Legacy of Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery isn’t just a whiskey factory—it’s a bourbon powerhouse. This place has been churning out liquid gold for over 200 years, surviving Prohibition (by making “medicinal whiskey” 🍾) and setting the standard for great American bourbon.

A few fun facts:
✅ Home to legendary bourbons like Pappy Van Winkle, Eagle Rare, and Blanton’s
✅ Their aging warehouse is so massive, it has its own climate variations—which impact how each barrel matures
✅ They’re constantly experimenting, with barrels aging in different locations, temperatures, and even using alternative grains

Buffalo Trace isn’t just making whiskey—it’s shaping the future of bourbon.

Flavor Pairing Picks: What to Eat with Buffalo Trace

Buffalo Trace plays well with food, and here’s what brings out its best:

🥩 For dinner: Smoked ribs, grilled steak, or a juicy cheeseburger. The sweetness of the bourbon complements the char of the meat.

🍯 For dessert: Pecan pie or crème brûlée. The bourbon’s caramel notes bring out the richness.

🔥 For cigars: Try a Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real—smooth and medium-bodied, just like the bourbon itself.

A simple rule? Sweet + smoky = a perfect match.

The Art of Mixing: The Kentucky Buck

You’ve had your Old Fashioneds, your Manhattans—but let’s mix it up with a Kentucky Buck. This is a refreshing bourbon cocktail that’s dangerously drinkable.

You’ll need:
🍓 2 oz Buffalo Trace
🍓 ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
🍓 ¾ oz simple syrup
🍓 2 fresh strawberries
🍓 2 dashes Angostura bitters
🍓 Ginger beer

How to make it:
1️⃣ Muddle the strawberries and simple syrup in a shaker.
2️⃣ Add bourbon, lemon juice, and bitters. Shake with ice.
3️⃣ Strain over fresh ice in a Collins glass.
4️⃣ Top with ginger beer and give it a gentle stir.
5️⃣ Garnish with a strawberry or lemon wheel.

It’s bright, fizzy, and dangerously good—perfect for when you want bourbon with a refreshing twist.

On the Horizon: The Best is Yet to Come

Over the next two weeks, we’re revealing our top two bourbons under $50. These are bottles you’ll want to hunt down immediately.

Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss out.

P.S. – Join The Bourbon Society

Want exclusive bourbon content, discounts, and a quarterly print edition? Join The Bourbon Society Reserve or The Bourbon Society Select and get access to premium perks.

Check it out here: Bourbon Society Membership

Until next time—keep your glass full and your bourbon budget smart.

Cheers,
Ethan "Neat" Whitmore