The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, also known as BTAC, consists of 5 main bourbons. Good luck finding any of them – these are some of the scarcest and highest-sought-after bourbons in the world.
For bourbon enthusiasts, the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) isn’t just another collection; it’s a significant point of interest. This collection offers unique experiences for those who manage to acquire it, but not without some criticisms from the community. Here’s a more straightforward examination of the BTAC:
Buffalo Trace Antique Collection List
Here’s a list of the 5 bourbons in the Buffalo Trace antique collection, alongside tasting notes and criticisms.
George T. Stagg
Tasting Notes: At a whopping 140 proof, 15 years of aging gives George T. Stagg and extraordinarily rich palate. You can expect flavors of dark chocolate, dried fruits, and warming spices, combined with a tobacco-like smokiness. The finish is long, with hints of vanilla and toasted oak.
Critique: While flavorful, its high proof can be intense for some palates, and it sometimes overshadows the subtler flavors.
William Larue Weller
Tasting Notes: Aged 12 years, and clocking in at 125 proof, this is a wheated bourbon. It has a soft, sweet profile, and you’ll pick up caramel, honey, and dried fruit, especially apricot. Its finish offers hints of vanilla and oak.
Critique: Some bourbon aficionados feel its softness can be mistaken for a lack of complexity.
Eagle Rare 17 Year Old
Tasting Notes: Coming in at 101 proof, this bourbon is known for its age. It’s extended aging imparts flavors of dark chocolate, leather, and dried cherries. There are also subtle hints of tropical fruits and herbs, with a finish that is long and woody.
Critique: Its age can make it overly oaky for some, overshadowing other flavors.
Sazerac 18 Year Old
Tasting Notes: This rye whiskey offers both spice and depth. Expect a harmonious balance of clove, allspice, and pepper, underlined by a sweetness reminiscent of dark chocolate and toffee.
Critique: At times, the spice can be dominant, making it less approachable for those new to rye.
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac
Tasting Notes: Aged 6 years and clocking in at around a 130 proof, this is a vibrant rye, with a bouquet of cinnamon, nutmeg, and honey. Freshly baked bread and citrus undertones round out the palate, leading to a spicy, zesty finish.
Critique: Its youthful energy (remember, it’s only aged for 6 years) is both its strength and its potential drawback, as it may lack the balance found in more mature ryes.
Behind the Production
Buffalo Trace, in crafting the Antique Collection, applies a rigorous barrel selection process. Harlen Wheatley, the Master Distiller, and his team ensure that the whiskies chosen are representative of their desired profiles.
Criticism in the Community
While the BTAC is lauded for its quality, it hasn’t been without criticism. Many enthusiasts express frustration over its annual limited release, coupled with a price point that doesn’t always reflect the perceived value of the whiskey inside. Some argue that similar quality bourbons are available at a fraction of the BTAC’s cost, without the scarcity-driven price inflation.
Why is BTAC Hard to Find?
The scarcity of the BTAC isn’t just a matter of limited production; it’s also a result of immense demand. Buffalo Trace’s marketing strategies and the bourbons’ genuine quality have made them highly sought after. The limited release strategy, whether intentional or due to genuine supply constraints, only fuels the fire of demand. This high demand versus low supply scenario inevitably leads to secondary markets inflating the prices, making it even more challenging for everyday consumers to acquire a bottle at its recommended retail price.
The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection stands as a significant offering in the bourbon world. While it boasts quality and exclusivity, potential buyers should be aware of its criticisms and the reasons behind its rarity. As with any purchase, especially in the spirits domain, research and tasting when possible should guide decisions.
We love talking about Buffalo Trace. Learn more about the history, prices, and tasting notes of this iconic distillery here.
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