Emma Jones
An Ancient Grain’s Modern Twist: A Peek Into Buffalo Trace’s Newest Bourbon
If you’re a fan of exquisite innovative bourbon and the mysteries of ancient Egypt, this bit of news is sure to excite you. Buffalo Trace, one of the most esteemed distilleries in the whiskey game, has released an intriguing new bourbon, meticulously crafted with an ancient Egyptian grain. Yes, you read that right: ancient Egyptian grain!
Buffalo Trace: Crafting Exemplary Spirits Since 1775
Buffalo Trace is an American distillery steeped in over 200 years of history. Dubbed “the world’s most decorated distillery,” they’re known for an impressive pedigree of premium bourbons that set the standard for what good whiskey should be like. They’ve maintained a penchant for innovation and historical interest, combining them in quite remarkable ways. Now, they’re raising the bar even higher with their newest venture.
The Ancient Line of Grains: Reviving Lost Cultures
The newest creation was enabled by a decade-long collaboration between Buffalo Trace and several universities. This partnership embarked on the monumental task of reviving ancient strains of grain. The seed, known as Purple Egyptian Barley, was originally cultivated over 5,000 years ago and is believed to be one of the first grains ever domesticated by man.
This ancient grain was, for the longest time, lost to the modern world. Thanks to scientists and the distilling team at Buffalo Trace, this grain is back. Its reintroduction into modern times didn’t end in the laboratories; it found its way into the whiskey barrels in the distillery, giving birth to the newest member of the Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection.
Buffalo Trace’s Egyptian Purple Barley Bourbon: A Taste of History
This isn’t just any bourbon; it’s a testament to the innovative brilliance of Buffalo Trace and its unwavering commitment to enrich Bourbon’s heritage. The distinct ingredient—ancient Egyptian Purple Barley—gives the beverage an earthiness and nuttiness that distinguishes it from other bourbons.
The Unique Distillation Process
The Egyptian Purple Barley, after being harvested and malted, was cultivated by Buffalo Trace Distillery into a mash. It underwent a fermentation process with Kentucky limestone water, after which it was distilled and then aged in new charred oak barrels for 19 months. Because it’s a younger spirit, the grain’s unique taste isn’t overshadowed by oak notes.
Tasting Notes: Historically Rich and Intriguingly Unique
Uncorking the bottle of Buffalo Trace’s Egyptian Purple Barley Bourbon reveals an aroma rich with notes of cherry and caramel. The sensation deepens as mid-palette citrus and char notes mingle harmoniously, leaving a lingering note of malted barley in its wake.
Every sip tells the tale of a grain’s journey from antiquity to the modern day, laced with the mastery of the distillers who ensured its essence wasn’t lost. Whether you are an amateur enthusiast or a connoisseur, the unique taste of this bourbon is sure to captivate your palate.
Imbibing a Taste of History
With only approximately 400 bottles available, the Buffalo Trace Egyptian Purple Barley Bourbon isn’t just a tasting experience. It’s an opportunity to journey back to the origins of cultivation itself, brought to you right in your glass. What’s more, each bottle is a salute to the unwavering pioneering spirit and dedication of the team behind its creation.
Ultimately, Buffalo Trace’s new bourbon, distilled from an ancient Egyptian grain, underscores that innovation doesn’t always mean looking to the future. Sometimes, it involves a deep dive into the past and rediscovering what has been lost, which can yield insights just as exciting, like in this case, a bourbon made from a grain that time had nearly forgotten!
