2024 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection: Tasting & Rankings

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Discover the 2024 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, featuring five exceptional whiskeys. Experience unique flavors and craftsmanship in this highly anticipated release!

The Allure of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection

American whiskey enthusiasts eagerly await the arrival of fall. This season marks the peak release time for premium whiskeys, especially the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC). Each September, whiskey brands unveil their most coveted limited editions. For many, BTAC is the highlight of the year, showcasing some of the finest expressions in the spirits world.

Buffalo Trace, based in Kentucky, typically releases five distinct bottlings in this collection. However, there have been exceptions, such as in 2021 when they opted not to release a George T. Stagg bourbon. Fortunately, in 2024, all five expressions returned, much to the delight of whiskey aficionados. This year’s collection includes two rye whiskeys and three bourbons, one featuring a wheated mash bill.

The excitement surrounding BTAC is palpable. Whiskey hunters eagerly anticipate the chance to taste these limited releases. Each expression offers a unique flavor profile, making the collection a treasure trove for connoisseurs. As the season unfolds, the buzz around these whiskeys only intensifies.

Tasting the 2024 Expressions

The 2024 BTAC lineup features a range of exceptional whiskeys. Each expression has its own character, making it a challenge to rank them. The tasting process involves careful consideration and multiple pours. After extensive sampling, the rankings reveal the standout bottles of the year.

1. Thomas H. Handy Rye: This 6-year-old rye whiskey is known for its rich and complex flavors. The nose presents oak, lemon oil, and herbs, while the palate is dominated by bold cinnamon spice. Although it’s delicious, it ranks lowest this year due to a lack of breadth compared to previous releases.

2. Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon: This bourbon, aged over 19 years, offers a luxurious experience. The nose features fruit, chocolate, and tart cherry, while the palate evokes baked apples and pipe tobacco. Despite its high quality, it didn’t quite match the flavor range of last year’s version.

3. George T. Stagg Bourbon: This cask-strength bourbon is a classic. Its aroma combines wood, black cherry, and vanilla, while the palate explodes with Luxardo cherry and dried figs. Although it ranks in the middle, it remains a remarkable expression of bourbon.

4. William Larue Weller Bourbon: This wheated bourbon shines in 2024. The nose reveals tannic leather and overripe fruit, while the palate offers cherry and strawberry shortcake. Its balance of sweetness and oak makes it a captivating choice.

5. Sazerac 18-Year-Old Rye Whiskey: This year’s top pick is the 90-proof Sazerac 18. Its earthy flavors and complex nose make it a standout. The palate combines sweetness with herbal notes, creating a lasting finish that showcases its quality.

The Craft of Whiskey Ranking

Ranking the BTAC expressions is no easy task. Each whiskey presents unique characteristics that appeal to different palates. Factors such as age, proof, and flavor profile all play a role in the final assessment. The 2024 collection exemplifies the high standards set by Buffalo Trace.

The process of tasting and ranking involves multiple rounds of evaluation. Each expression is savored, allowing tasters to note subtle differences. This meticulous approach ensures that the final rankings reflect the true quality of each whiskey.

Ultimately, the BTAC collection is a celebration of craftsmanship. Each bottle tells a story of tradition and innovation. As whiskey lovers explore these expressions, they gain a deeper appreciation for the art of distillation. The 2024 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection is a testament to the enduring allure of American whiskey.

Photo by Almos Bechtold on Unsplash

Source: VinePair – The 2024 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, Tasted and Ranked