Buffalo Trace Distillery is renowned for its wide range of bourbon and whiskey offerings, each with its own unique mash bill. Mash bill refers to the recipe of grains used in the production of the spirit. Let's explore the different mash bills at Buffalo Trace in detail.
1. Mash Bill #1:
Mash bill #1 is a well-kept secret at Buffalo Trace, but it is believed to have a relatively low percentage of rye, likely 10% or less. This mash bill results in a bourbon that is often described as smooth and mellow, with a focus on sweet and caramel flavors. While the exact proportions of grains in mash bill #1 remain undisclosed, it is widely enjoyed for its balanced and approachable character.
2. Mash Bill #2:
Mash bill #2 is another prominent recipe at Buffalo Trace. It is known to contain a higher proportion of rye compared to mash bill #1, estimated to be around 10% to 12%. This higher rye content imparts a spicier and bolder flavor profile to the bourbon. Mash bill #2 bourbons often exhibit notes of cinnamon, clove, and black pepper, offering a more robust and complex tasting experience.
3. Wheat Mash Bill:
Buffalo Trace also produces a wheat mash bill, which is characterized by a higher percentage of wheat in the grain recipe. While the exact composition of the wheat mash bill is not disclosed, it is believed to have over 15% wheat content. This higher wheat proportion contributes to a softer and smoother mouthfeel, often described as creamy and delicate. Wheat mash bill bourbons are renowned for their gentle sweetness and notes of vanilla and caramel.
4. Rye Whiskey Mash Bill:
In addition to bourbon, Buffalo Trace also produces rye whiskey with a distinct mash bill. Rye whiskey requires a minimum of 51% rye grain in its production. While the exact specifications of Buffalo Trace's rye whiskey mash bill are not publicly disclosed, it is widely believed to contain just the minimum 51% rye. This results in a rye whiskey that showcases the spicy and peppery characteristics of rye, often with a drier and more assertive flavor profile compared to bourbon.
5. EH Taylor Straight Rye:
One notable expression from Buffalo Trace is the EH Taylor Straight Rye. This rye whiskey is known for its exceptional quality and is assumed to have a high percentage of rye in its mash bill. While the exact mash bill proportions are proprietary, EH Taylor Straight Rye is celebrated for its bold and robust rye flavors, often with notes of baking spices, black pepper, and a hint of fruitiness.
It's important to note that while these mash bills provide a general understanding of the grain compositions used at Buffalo Trace, the exact proportions and additional ingredients may vary between different expressions. The distillery's commitment to craftsmanship and tradition ensures that each mash bill creates a unique and enjoyable drinking experience.