Buffalo Trace acquired Benchmark Bourbon in 1989 from the Seagram Company. This acquisition marked a significant moment in the history of Benchmark, as it became a part of the Sazerac company, which is the parent company of Buffalo Trace. Prior to this, Benchmark had already established itself as a well-known bourbon brand, but its acquisition by Buffalo Trace brought about some changes.
I remember when I first learned about the purchase of Benchmark by Buffalo Trace. It was an exciting time in the bourbon industry, as Buffalo Trace was already renowned for its exceptional quality spirits. As someone who appreciates good bourbon, I was curious to see how this acquisition would affect the Benchmark brand.
One of the first things I noticed after the purchase was that Benchmark remained a budget-friendly bourbon. While Buffalo Trace is known for producing premium bourbons such as Pappy Van Winkle and Eagle Rare, they recognized the value of having a more affordable option in their portfolio. Benchmark filled that role perfectly, providing a quality bourbon at a more accessible price point.
However, it's important to note that being a budget bottle does come with some compromises. Buffalo Trace made some cost-cutting decisions with Benchmark, and these areas of compromise are not hidden. For example, the packaging of Benchmark is fairly basic and straightforward, lacking the elaborate design and presentation that you might find with higher-end bourbons. This, of course, helps to keep the price down.
Another area where cost reduction is evident is in the sourcing and aging of the bourbon itself. While Buffalo Trace is known for aging their bourbons for extended periods, Benchmark is aged for a shorter duration. This allows them to release the bourbon sooner and at a more affordable price point. While it may not have the same depth and complexity as some of Buffalo Trace's other offerings, Benchmark still delivers a solid bourbon experience.
That being said, it's important to remember that taste is subjective. While some may prefer the complexity and richness of more expensive bourbons, others may find that Benchmark offers a satisfying and enjoyable experience at a fraction of the cost. It's all about personal preference and what you're looking for in a bourbon.
Buffalo Trace acquired Benchmark Bourbon in 1989, bringing it into the Sazerac company's portfolio. Despite being a budget bottle, Benchmark continues to provide a quality bourbon experience. While there are areas where cost-cutting measures are evident, such as in the packaging and aging process, Benchmark remains a popular choice for those seeking a more affordable bourbon option.