Buffalo Trace's Traveller Whiskey, a collaboration with country music star Chris Stapleton, has recently garnered significant attention after winning two major awards. Launched earlier this year, this whiskey initially raised eyebrows for its affordability and the celebrity endorsement behind it. However, Traveller Whiskey has proven its worth, earning accolades that validate its quality despite its modest price point.
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Traveller Whiskey is a product of Buffalo Trace Distillery, known for producing high-quality spirits. Chris Stapleton, who has a reputation for good taste, lent his name to this blend, raising expectations among fans and whiskey enthusiasts alike. However, the whiskey industry is filled with celebrity-backed products that often fall short of the hype, leading to some initial skepticism. Additionally, the lack of transparency about the blend's contents and its missing age statement added to the doubts.
Despite these concerns, those who tried Traveller Whiskey found themselves pleasantly surprised. It offers a smooth, easy-drinking experience without any pretentiousness, making it a standout among recent whiskey releases. For one reviewer, it quickly became a favorite new whiskey of the year.
While some critics were initially less enthusiastic, with one even going so far as to dramatically rate it 1/10 on Reddit, recent developments have turned the tide in Traveller's favor. The whiskey has now earned both a Gold medal at the Spirits Business American Whiskey Masters 2024 and a Double Platinum rating at the 2024 Ascot Awards.
The Gold medal at the American Whiskey Masters places Traveller Whiskey in esteemed company. This competition awarded only nine Master medals across 19 categories, making a Gold medal a significant achievement. Traveller shares this honor with other well-regarded whiskeys, including 1792 Full Proof Bourbon and selections from Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection.
The Ascot Awards, founded by bourbon expert Fred Minnick, offered an even larger pool of competition. Traveller Whiskey stood out again, receiving a Double Platinum rating, the highest honor short of a Best in Show award. This recognition is particularly impressive given the sheer number of entries in the Ascot Awards.
These awards solidify Traveller Whiskey’s status as not just an affordable option, but a genuinely high-quality one. Despite its success, it remains accessible, with many stores offering it below the suggested retail price. This combination of quality, affordability, and availability is rare, especially among award-winning whiskeys from Buffalo Trace.
Traveller Whiskey, with its 45% ABV, has managed to break free from the typical pitfalls of celebrity-endorsed products. Its recent awards highlight that it is more than just a name—it’s a well-crafted whiskey that stands on its own merits. As it continues to gain recognition, Traveller Whiskey is likely to become a staple for both casual drinkers and whiskey connoisseurs.
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About Buffalo Trace Distillery
Buffalo Trace Distillery, located in Frankfort, Kentucky, is one of the most historic and acclaimed distilleries in the United States. Its roots trace back to 1775 when the site was first established as a working distillery. The distillery's current name, Buffalo Trace, was adopted in 1999, paying homage to the ancient buffalo crossing on the banks of the Kentucky River nearby.
Buffalo Trace is renowned for producing a diverse range of whiskies, including bourbon and rye, under various labels. The distillery's flagship bourbon is Buffalo Trace Bourbon, a widely recognized and award-winning expression that reflects the classic characteristics of Kentucky straight bourbon. Buffalo Trace Distillery also produces other well-known brands such as Eagle Rare, Blanton's, and the highly sought-after Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve.
The distillery is notable for its commitment to preserving traditional whiskey-making methods. Buffalo Trace is known for its use of high-quality grains, time-tested fermentation processes, and copper pot stills. Additionally, the aging warehouses on the site, some dating back to the 1800s, contribute to the unique flavor profiles of Buffalo Trace whiskies. The distillery boasts a vast array of aging barrels, including those positioned in various locations within the warehouses, each imparting distinct characteristics to the maturing spirits.
