Before it became Buffalo Trace, the distillery had a rich and varied history. It was originally known as the Old Fire Copper Distillery, a name that evokes images of the early days of distilling and the craftsmanship that went into creating spirits. This distillery was established in 1787, making it one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the United States.
The Old Fire Copper Distillery changed hands several times over the years, with different owners bringing their own unique vision and expertise to the operation. One of the most significant figures in the distillery's history was George T. Stagg, who purchased the distillery in 1870. Stagg was a pioneer in the whiskey industry and made significant contributions to the development of American bourbon.
Under Stagg's ownership, the distillery was renamed the George T. Stagg Company. Stagg was known for his commitment to quality and innovation, and he implemented several improvements to the distillery's operations. He introduced steam heating and a state-of-the-art grain handling system, which allowed for more efficient production of bourbon.
The George T. Stagg Company continued to thrive under Stagg's leadership, and its reputation for producing high-quality bourbon grew. However, like many distilleries, it faced challenges during Prohibition, which lasted from 1920 to 1933. During this time, the production and sale of alcoholic beverages were prohibited, and many distilleries were forced to close their doors.
Fortunately, the George T. Stagg Company was able to survive Prohibition by obtaining a license to produce medicinal whiskey. While this allowed the distillery to continue operating, it was a challenging time for the industry as a whole. Once Prohibition was repealed, the distillery resumed its production of bourbon and began to rebuild its reputation.
In 1992, the distillery was acquired by the Sazerac Company, a family-owned company known for its commitment to preserving and promoting traditional spirits. It was under the ownership of the Sazerac Company that the decision was made to rebrand the distillery as Buffalo Trace. This new name was chosen to pay homage to the distillery's rich history and the buffalo that once roamed the area.
Since becoming Buffalo Trace, the distillery has continued to produce award-winning bourbons and has become a destination for whiskey enthusiasts from around the world. Its commitment to quality and craftsmanship remains as strong as ever, and it continues to innovate and push the boundaries of bourbon production.
The distillery now known as Buffalo Trace has had a long and storied history. From its humble beginnings as the Old Fire Copper Distillery to its transformation under George T. Stagg's ownership, it has weathered challenges and changes to become one of the most respected and beloved bourbon producers in the world.