Buffalo Trace to open London store

Sazerac-owned Buffalo Trace Distillery will open its first brand home outside of the US in London’s Covent Garden this December.

As well as selling some of the brand’s whiskeys – such as Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare and Sazerac Rye – the store will offer an ‘immersive, sensorial’ experience, concluding with a tasting experience.

Visitors can choose from two tasting experiences. The first, named Taste of the Trace, will feature a guided tasting of three expressions from the brand’s core product range: Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Sazerac Rye and Bourbon Cream, as well as the option of a Buffalo and ginger ale cocktail.

The second tasting experience, named Tradition & Change: Crafting the Most Awarded American Whiskey, will feature some of the distillery’s premium expressions, including White Dog Mash #1, Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare 10 Year Old, EH Taylor Small Batch and a small pour of a Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned.

Tastings will range in price depending on selection, up to £29.99 (US$37), and reservations are required.

“Buffalo Trace Distillery’s relentless commitment to quality ageing and distilling has cultivated fans around the globe,” said Jake Wenz, who was appointed CEO and president at Buffalo Trace Distillery in July this year.

“Buffalo Trace Distillery London is the first home for our American whiskeys outside of Kentucky, USA, and we are honoured to put down roots in the United Kingdom.

“Many spirits consumers are more familiar with Bourbon’s global whiskey counterparts, and Buffalo Trace Distillery London aims to offer a space to learn more about – and hopefully, fall in love with – our Bourbon whiskey.

“We are excited to share our pursuit of the world’s best whiskey with all those interested in London and beyond.”

The London store is a 2,000-square-foot space that will pay homage to Buffalo Trace’s Bourbon craftsmanship. Visitors will be able to purchase whiskey and unique merchandise – some of which will be exclusive to the London site. Rare whiskey offerings will also be offered throughout the initial opening months.

The brand’s distillery in Kentucky is the third-oldest in the world and the oldest continually operating in the US.

“For over 200 years, our distillery has been defined by a dedication to one craft: making the finest American whiskey,” said Andrew Duncan, global brand director.

“In the heart of Bourbon country in Frankfort, Kentucky, Buffalo Trace Distillery has built a generation of enthusiasts, one at a time, by showcasing the timeless craft of whiskey making alongside a sharp focus on experimentation and innovation.

“Our London location will bring that genuine, authentic experience to a new generation of global fans, allowing them to discover all that American whiskey and the award-winning brands of Buffalo Trace Distillery have to offer.”

“Whether you’re an existing fan of American whiskey, or if the category is entirely new to you, we’re confident Buffalo Trace Distillery London will offer an experience and a pour that will delight every palate.”