Grammy-winning country artist Chris Stapleton, famous for his rendition of "Tennessee Whiskey," is venturing into the world of whiskey with a unique collaboration. Stapleton has joined forces with Kentucky's prestigious Buffalo Trace Distillery to introduce "Traveller Whiskey," set to grace store shelves next year. Born near the Buffalo Trace distillery in Lexington, Kentucky, Stapleton has worked closely with master distiller Harlen Wheatley, engaging in an exhaustive tasting journey that involved experimenting with over 50 distinct blend recipes. After meticulous selection, they settled on the masterpiece known as Blend No. 40.
The philosophy behind Traveller Whiskey, as stated on its label, is to liken good whiskey to a great song—it should require no explanation. With a single taste, it should convey all the necessary information and emotions, allowing enthusiasts to simply savor the experience. Buffalo Trace remains tight-lipped about the exact mashbill, but we do know that Traveller Whiskey will debut at 90 proof, making it an accessible choice for both newcomers to the world of whiskey and seasoned connoisseurs.
Notably, Chris Stapleton is no stranger to Buffalo Trace brands. In the previous year, he collaborated with the distillery to hand-select bottles of limited-edition E.H. Taylor, Jr. single-barrel bourbon, which were auctioned off for his charity, Outlaw State of Kind. It's a testament to his appreciation for quality spirits.
While more comprehensive tasting notes will be unveiled closer to the launch of Traveller Whiskey, early descriptions describe it as a complex yet approachable whiskey with hints of oak, maple, currant, and leather—a harmonious blend of flavors.
Harlen Wheatley, master distiller at Buffalo Trace, shared his thoughts on working with Chris Stapleton, emphasizing their shared passion for quality craftsmanship, whether in music or whiskey. This collaboration embodies their dedication to creating something extraordinary. Stapleton has been a friend of Buffalo Trace Distillery for years, and they take immense pride in what they have achieved with Traveller Whiskey, eagerly anticipating its introduction to the world.
While an exact release date remains undisclosed, Buffalo Trace hints at an early 2024 arrival for Traveller Whiskey, undoubtedly a highly anticipated addition to the whiskey landscape.
In a notable twist, Chris Stapleton's choice of Kentucky over Tennessee, where "Tennessee Whiskey" famously hails from, underscores the allure and craftsmanship associated with Kentucky bourbon. Buffalo Trace Distillery, with its storied history and reputation for excellence, is the ideal partner for Stapleton's foray into the whiskey world.
Traveller Whiskey is not only a promising addition to Stapleton's portfolio but also an exciting development for whiskey enthusiasts eager to experience the harmonious blend of music and spirits. The spirit's name, "Traveller," is a nod to Stapleton's critically acclaimed solo studio album, which debuted in 2015, further connecting his musical legacy to this exciting whiskey venture.
About Buffalo Trace Distillery
Buffalo Trace Distillery, located in Frankfort, Kentucky, is one of the most renowned and historic distilleries in the United States. With a heritage dating back to the late 18th century, this distillery has a storied history of producing high-quality bourbon whiskey, making it a cherished institution in the world of American spirits.
The distillery's flagship product, Buffalo Trace Bourbon, is celebrated for its rich and complex flavor profile. It's crafted using a mash bill composed of corn, rye, and barley, and it's aged in charred oak barrels for an extended period, allowing the whiskey to develop its distinct caramel, vanilla, and oak notes. This bourbon has received numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its reputation as a benchmark in the bourbon industry.
Buffalo Trace Distillery is also known for its wide range of whiskey brands, each with its unique character and flavor. These brands include well-known names such as Eagle Rare, Blanton's, and Pappy Van Winkle, the latter of which is particularly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts due to its limited availability and exceptional quality.
One of the remarkable aspects of Buffalo Trace Distillery is its commitment to preserving traditional production methods while also embracing innovation. The distillery boasts a picturesque campus with historic buildings, some of which date back to the 1800s, and it maintains a dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail in its whiskey-making process. At the same time, Buffalo Trace has been a leader in experimenting with different mash bills, aging techniques, and flavor profiles, resulting in the release of experimental and unique whiskies that intrigue connoisseurs.
Visitors to Buffalo Trace Distillery can enjoy tours and tastings, allowing them to explore the distillery's rich history and gain insights into the art of bourbon production. The distillery's commitment to preserving its heritage while pushing the boundaries of whiskey innovation has made it a must-visit destination for bourbon enthusiasts from around the world.
In summary, Buffalo Trace Distillery is an iconic American institution with a deep-rooted history of producing exceptional bourbon whiskey. Its commitment to tradition, innovation, and craftsmanship has solidified its reputation as a leading player in the whiskey industry and a symbol of Kentucky's proud bourbon heritage.
