Buffalo Trace, one of Frankfort's most renowned distilleries, was indeed a member of the Kentucky Distillers' Association (KDA) during its early years. However, in 2009, Buffalo Trace made the decision to leave the KDA, resulting in its forfeiture of participation on the Bourbon Trail. This decision came as a surprise to many in the industry, as Buffalo Trace had been a prominent and esteemed member of the KDA.
The exact reasons behind Buffalo Trace's departure from the KDA and subsequent exclusion from the Bourbon Trail map are not widely known. However, there are a few possible explanations that can shed some light on the situation.
One possible reason could be that Buffalo Trace wanted to distance itself from the constraints and regulations imposed by the KDA. Being a member of the association requires adherence to certain standards and practices, which may not align with the distillery's vision or goals. By leaving the KDA, Buffalo Trace would have more freedom to experiment with different distilling techniques, aging processes, and flavor profiles without being bound by the association's guidelines.
Another possibility is that Buffalo Trace wanted to differentiate itself from the other distilleries on the Bourbon Trail. The Bourbon Trail is a popular tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors each year. By choosing to step away from the KDA and the Bourbon Trail, Buffalo Trace may have been seeking to create a unique experience for its visitors, one that set it apart from the other distilleries in the region. This could include offering exclusive tours, limited-edition releases, or special events that cater to a more niche audience.
It is worth noting that Buffalo Trace has continued to thrive and gain recognition even without being a part of the Bourbon Trail. The distillery has received numerous accolades for its high-quality bourbons, and its products are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors alike. In fact, Buffalo Trace has become synonymous with exceptional bourbon, with many of its offerings consistently ranking among the best in the world.
In my personal experience, I have visited Buffalo Trace and have been captivated by the distillery's rich history and commitment to producing exceptional bourbon. The tour was informative and engaging, providing insights into the distilling process and showcasing the craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. The tasting experience was equally impressive, allowing me to savor the complex flavors and aromas that make Buffalo Trace bourbons so highly regarded.
While it is unfortunate that Buffalo Trace is no longer a part of the official Bourbon Trail, it has not diminished the distillery's reputation or appeal. In fact, the exclusivity of not being on the map may even add to its allure for bourbon enthusiasts seeking something off the beaten path.
Buffalo Trace's decision to leave the KDA and forfeit its participation on the Bourbon Trail remains somewhat of a mystery. However, it is clear that the distillery's reputation and success have not been hindered by this choice. Buffalo Trace continues to be a beloved and respected name in the bourbon industry, offering exceptional products and a unique visitor experience that sets it apart from the other distilleries on the Bourbon Trail.