Are These Buffalo Trace Whiskeys Overrated?

Are These Buffalo Trace Whiskeys Overrated?

The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) stands as one of the most highly anticipated annual releases in the realm of American whiskey. While some may argue that the Pappy Van Winkle lineup garners even more fervent excitement, both originate from the esteemed Buffalo Trace Distillery, with BTAC representing the pinnacle of their esteemed portfolio. Each year, this exclusive collection comprises five exceptional bottles: three bourbons — William Larue Weller, George T. Stagg, and Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old — alongside two ryes — Sazerac 18-Year-Old and Thomas H. Handy Sazerac. Despite their official retail price of $125, securing a bottle from BTAC proves an arduous task, as they swiftly disappear from shelves and command exorbitant prices on the secondary market. Buy The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection! 

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac

With a robust proof of 124.9 and aged for over six years, this whiskey delivers a contrasting experience from nose to finish. While the nose presents surprisingly sweet and gentle notes of caramel and vanilla, the palate reveals a bold onslaught of rye spice, accompanied by hints of brown sugar and intense heat. The finish lingers with lingering spice and a persistent warmth that leaves a lasting impression on the palate. Buy it now!

Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old Whiskey

With a proof of 90 and an impressive 18 years of aging, this rye whiskey offers a refined and approachable experience. The nose presents a soft sweetness, accompanied by subtle notes of licorice, rye spice, and raspberries. On the palate, the whiskey reveals a well-rounded rye flavor with a smoothed-over spiciness and a touch of honey sweetness, making it an easy sipper. The finish is clean and creamy, offering a unique and satisfying conclusion to the tasting experience. Buy it now!

George T. Stagg Bourbon

With a bold proof of 135 and an impressive aging of 15 years and 4 months, this rye whiskey commands attention from the start. Despite its high proof, the nose offers notes of sweet corn and vanilla, hinting at a complex flavor profile. On the palate, the whiskey surprises with its smoothness, delivering a sharp but enjoyable intensity reminiscent of caramel corn. The finish leaves a slight bitter aftertaste, acting as an appetizer for the next sip and inviting further exploration of its rich flavors. Buy it now!

Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon

With a proof of 101 and an impressive aging of 17 years and 3 months, this rye whiskey offers a nuanced sensory experience. On the nose, it presents soft, woodsy notes intertwined with sweet accents of maple and oak. The palate delivers an intense flavor profile, balancing maple sweetness with tannic bitterness, dominated by robust oak undertones. While the finish leans towards bitterness, it remains well-balanced and not off-putting, adding complexity to the overall tasting experience. Buy it now!

William Larue Weller Bourbon

With a bold proof of 133.6 and a respectable aging of 12 years, this rye whiskey offers a delightful sensory journey. On the nose, it exudes creamy notes intertwined with inviting hints of cinnamon and honey, reminiscent of a delectable dessert. The palate continues the indulgence with an absurdly smooth and creamy texture, revealing complex layers of flavors dominated by cinnamon and honey, with subtle nuances adding depth to the experience. While the finish carries a notable heat, it remains focused on the throat, allowing the tongue to savor the lingering flavors uninterrupted. Buy it now!