As an expert sommelier and brewer, I am excited to delve into the topic of Four Roses and the connection with Buffalo Trace Distillery. To answer your question, yes, Buffalo Trace does make Four Roses bourbon, but it wasn't always the case.
Let's take a journey back in time to the 1960s when Four Roses was under the leadership of Master Distiller Ova Haney and the brand was owned by Seagram's. During this period, Four Roses faced a decline in popularity due to a shift in the bourbon market and an emphasis on blended whiskies. However, the brand saw a glimmer of hope when Paul Jones Jr., the founder of Four Roses, trademarked the name and recipe in 1888.
In 1969, the future of Four Roses took a turn when Seagram's introduced Benchmark Bourbon under the Four Roses brand. This move aimed to revitalize the Four Roses name by offering a more accessible and affordable bourbon option. Under the guidance of Master Distiller Jim Rutledge, Four Roses began producing a variety of different recipes using two different mash bills and five unique yeast strains, resulting in ten distinct bourbon recipes.
Fast forward to 1975, and Four Roses expanded its portfolio once again with the introduction of Eagle Rare bourbon. This premium offering showcased the brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship, solidifying Four Roses as a versatile bourbon producer.
However, the story doesn't end there. In 1982, Charles Beam, a member of the famous Beam whiskey family, retired as Master Distiller of Four Roses. The brand experienced several changes in ownership until it was ultimately acquired by the Sazerac Company in 1999. This acquisition included both Four Roses and Eagle Rare brands.
Following the acquisition, Sazerac continued to produce Four Roses and Eagle Rare at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, which is renowned for its expertise in bourbon production. Buffalo Trace Distillery, located in Frankfort, Kentucky, has a long-standing history in the bourbon industry and is home to some of the most respected bourbon brands in the world.
Under the watchful eye of Buffalo Trace's Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley, Four Roses and Eagle Rare have continued to flourish. The distillery's commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation has allowed these brands to maintain their unique characteristics while benefiting from the expertise and resources of Buffalo Trace.
In my personal experience, I have had the pleasure of tasting both Four Roses and Eagle Rare bourbons produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery. The craftsmanship and attention to detail are evident in every sip. Four Roses offers a diverse range of flavors, thanks to its ten different recipes, while Eagle Rare showcases a rich and complex profile that captivates the palate.
To summarize, Buffalo Trace Distillery does indeed produce Four Roses bourbon and Eagle Rare bourbon. The acquisition of these brands by the Sazerac Company and the subsequent production at Buffalo Trace have only enhanced their reputation and ensured their continued success in the world of bourbon.