Stitzel-Weller is not owned by Buffalo Trace. However, the W.L. Weller brand, which was produced at Stitzel-Weller, is now owned by Buffalo Trace Distillery.
To understand the relationship between Stitzel-Weller and Buffalo Trace, we need to delve into the history of these two distilleries. Stitzel-Weller was founded in 1933 by Julian “Pappy” Van Winkle and Alex Farnsley. It quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality bourbon, with its Old Fitzgerald and W.L. Weller brands becoming particularly popular.
In 1972, Stitzel-Weller was sold to Norton Simon Inc., a conglomerate that owned a variety of businesses. Unfortunately, under the new ownership, the distillery struggled to maintain its previous level of success. Production eventually ceased in 1992, and the distillery was closed.
Fast forward to 1999 when the W.L. Weller brand was sold to the Ancient Age Distillery, which is known today as Buffalo Trace Distillery. Buffalo Trace Distillery is located in Frankfort, Kentucky, and is renowned for its production of bourbon and other spirits.
Buffalo Trace Distillery has done an impressive job of preserving and honoring the legacy of the W.L. Weller brand. They continue to produce the various expressions of W.L. Weller bourbon, including the highly sought-after W.L. Weller 12 Year and W.L. Weller Antique 107.
While Stitzel-Weller itself is no longer in operation, its legacy lives on through the W.L. Weller brand. Buffalo Trace Distillery has become the custodian of this iconic brand, ensuring its continued production and availability to bourbon enthusiasts around the world.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting various expressions of W.L. Weller bourbon. Each sip is a journey, with flavors ranging from rich caramel and vanilla to hints of oak and spice. The smoothness and complexity of these bourbons are a testament to the craftsmanship and expertise of both the original Stitzel-Weller distillers and the team at Buffalo Trace.
While Stitzel-Weller is not owned by Buffalo Trace, the W.L. Weller brand, which was produced at Stitzel-Weller, is now owned and produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery. This allows bourbon enthusiasts to continue enjoying the legacy and exceptional quality of W.L. Weller bourbon, keeping the spirit of Stitzel-Weller alive.