Old Taylor bourbon is made at Buffalo Trace Distillery in Franklin County, Kentucky. This distillery, owned by the Sazerac Company, has a rich history and is known for producing high-quality spirits. I have had the opportunity to visit Buffalo Trace Distillery myself, and I was truly impressed by the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into making Old Taylor and their other spirits.
During my visit, I had the chance to tour the distillery and see firsthand the entire whiskey-making process. It was fascinating to witness the dedication and passion of the distillers as they carefully crafted each batch of bourbon. The distillery itself is steeped in history, with buildings dating back to the 1800s and a sense of tradition that permeates every aspect of production.
One of the standout features of Buffalo Trace Distillery is their commitment to preserving the heritage of bourbon-making. They utilize traditional methods and equipment, such as copper stills and aging barrels, to ensure the authenticity and quality of their spirits. This dedication to tradition is reflected in the Old Taylor bourbon, which pays homage to Col. Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr., a pioneer in the bourbon industry.
Old Taylor bourbon is made using a mash bill that consists of corn, rye, and malted barley. This combination of grains gives the bourbon its distinct flavor profile, with hints of sweetness from the corn and spice from the rye. The mash is fermented using a proprietary yeast strain, which contributes to the unique character of the spirit.
After fermentation, the bourbon is distilled in copper stills, a process that helps to remove impurities and refine the flavors. The distillate is then transferred to charred oak barrels for aging. Buffalo Trace Distillery is known for its extensive barrel-aging warehouses, where thousands of barrels of bourbon are stored and allowed to mature over time.
The aging process is crucial in developing the complexity and depth of flavors in Old Taylor bourbon. The whiskey spends years in the barrel, absorbing the rich flavors and aromas from the wood. During this time, the bourbon undergoes a natural evaporation process known as the “angel's share,” which further concentrates the flavors.
Once the bourbon has reached its desired maturity, it is carefully chosen by the master distillers for bottling. Each bottle of Old Taylor is hand-labeled and inspected to ensure the highest quality standards are met. The result is a smooth and flavorful bourbon that pays tribute to the legacy of Col. Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr.
Old Taylor bourbon is made at Buffalo Trace Distillery in Franklin County, Kentucky. The distillery's commitment to tradition and craftsmanship is evident in every bottle of Old Taylor, making it a true testament to the art of bourbon-making.