Photo by Nash Werner
Buffalo Trace Distillery is set to release the latest installments in their Experimental Collection. These two new bourbons, Fine Grain Oak and Coarse Grain Oak, test the effect of different wood grains on aging. Specifically, do barrels made of fast growth oak trees have a different effect on flavor than slower growth trees with finer grain? The new Buffalo Trace experiments were left in the barrels for 14 years and 9 months. Suggested retail price is $46.35 each. Each experiment is rare and very limited. There will be 300 bottles (375 ml) of each experiment released.
1. FINE GRAIN OAK: The bourbon is rich and exceedingly sweet with an almost syrupy character. It also has a nice balance of flavors and complexity.
2. COARSE GRAIN OAK: This whiskey is dry with a balance of smokiness and wood with herbal qualities. The finish is quick and woody and it is slightly heavy with a powerful complexity.
“We continue to learn new and interesting information from these experiments. We never know how they are going to turn out,” said Harlen Wheatley, master distiller. “It’s also great to see the excitement that surrounds these releases. The customer feedback is great.”
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Chuck Cowdery has more details about the Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection at his site. Thanks to BBQandbourbon.com for their coverage of this story.