Buffalo Trace’s Prohibition Collection: A Tribute to Whiskey History

Buffalo Trace, renowned for its highly sought-after whiskeys like Pappy Van Winkle and the Antique Collection, is about to add another gem to its lineup. The Prohibition Collection, a new annual whiskey series, pays homage to the whiskeys legally distilled and distributed by Buffalo Trace’s precursor, the George T. Stagg Distillery, during the era of the Noble Experiment – Prohibition.

From 1920 until its repeal in 1933, Prohibition banned the production and sale of alcohol. However, there was a loophole – you could still purchase alcohol with a doctor’s prescription. The belief that alcohol had health benefits led to this exception. But let’s face it, promoting alcohol as medicinal or healthy is misleading and dangerous. Nonetheless, the Prohibition Collection recognizes this history without making any such claims.

During Prohibition, the U.S. government granted six distilleries licenses to store and distribute alcohol for medicinal purposes, and one of those was George T. Stagg in Frankfort, Kentucky. Buffalo Trace has resurrected five whiskey brands from that era for this collection. While they are more homages to the originals than exact replicas, each carries the essence of the past.

Old Stagg, an uncut, unfiltered, barrel-proof bourbon bottled at an impressive 132.4 proof, echoes the legacy of its modern siblings, George T. Stagg and Stagg. With notes of oak, vanilla, leather, and dark cherries, this bourbon promises a taste that transcends time.

Golden Wedding, a rye whiskey bottled at 107 proof, is inspired by a Pennsylvania brand originally produced at Joseph S. Finch Distillery by Schenley Distilling, which acquired George T. Stagg in 1929. While it later became a Canadian whisky before production ceased, Golden Wedding showcases a grainy, herbal palate with hints of pickles and spice.

Three Feathers, a bottled-in-bond bourbon, is a testament to master blender Drew Mayville’s craftsmanship. Dating back to the early 19th century, this brand underwent various transitions, including being a rye whiskey, bottled-in-bond whiskey, and blended whiskey. The current iteration presents tropical fruit notes, a touch of smoke and caramel, and a cocoa finish.

Walnut Hill, initially bottled at George T. Stagg during Prohibition, remains somewhat of a mystery regarding its origin. Today, it stands as a 90 proof high-rye bourbon, offering a delightful blend of corn, oak, sweet molasses, stone fruit, and vanilla.

Finally, George T. Stagg Distillery Spiritus Frumenti serves as a tribute to the “medicinal whiskey” of the Prohibition era. Translating to “spirit of the grain” in Latin, this 110 proof wheated bourbon boasts notes of cherry and oak, culminating in a finish showcasing vanilla, wheat, and citrus flavors.

According to Buffalo Trace’s master distiller, Harlen Wheatley, these brands played a crucial role in Buffalo Trace’s survival. Without them, beloved bourbons like Eagle Rare, Weller, and Buffalo Trace would not exist today. Andrew Duncan, global brand director, emphasized their excitement in resurrecting these brands and sharing their stories anew.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – obtaining this collection will be no easy feat. It will be sold as a set of five smaller 375-ml bottles in a beautiful wooden display case. As for the price, well, that remains a mystery for now.

So, whiskey enthusiasts, keep your eyes peeled and your hopes high. The Prohibition Collection is set to transport you back in time, offering a taste of history that is as valuable as the unicorn bottles that Buffalo Trace has become synonymous with.

$1,000 is the price tag on it. Yes, you read that right. And if you think that’s a lot, just wait until you see how much it’s going for on the secondary market. But don’t worry, because if you’re a dedicated unicorn hunter, you might just get lucky and snag one. And let’s take a moment to appreciate how far we’ve come in the field of medicine. Gone are the days when doctors would prescribe a shot of bourbon to cure a cold.

Now, let’s move on to more interesting topics, like Thanksgiving. Everyone knows that the star of the show is the turkey. But not just any turkey, a heritage turkey. Why, you ask? Well, let me enlighten you. A heritage turkey is the best Thanksgiving bird because it has a rich flavor that you won’t find in your average store-bought turkey. Plus, it’s a nod to tradition and a way to support local farmers who are preserving these rare breeds.

If you’re wondering how to get your hands on one of these prized birds, fear not. I’ve got you covered. A quick Google search will lead you to several online retailers who specialize in heritage turkeys. You can also check with your local farmer’s market or butcher to see if they carry them.

Alright, let’s talk wine. Specifically, West Coast Pinot Noirs. If you’re a fan of this elegant and versatile red wine, then you’re in for a treat. The West Coast is home to some stellar Pinot Noirs that are sure to impress. From Oregon to California, these wines showcase the unique terroir of the region and offer a range of flavor profiles to suit every palate. So, next time you’re in the mood for a glass of red, skip the Cabernet and reach for a bottle of West Coast Pinot Noir instead.

And speaking of wine, let’s not forget about steak. The perfect pairing for a juicy steak is a bold and robust red wine. And what better options are there than Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec? These two varietals are known for their big, bold flavors and ability to stand up to the rich flavors of a perfectly cooked steak. So, next time you fire up the grill or visit your favorite steakhouse, make sure to order a bottle of Cabernet or Malbec to accompany your meal.

But enough about food and wine. If you want to stay up to date with the latest luxury news, trends, and events, then you need to sign up for Robb Report’s newsletter. We’ll deliver all the latest and greatest to your inbox, so you never miss a beat.

And for even more behind-the-scenes action, make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We’ll give you an inside look at the world of luxury and keep you in the loop with exclusive content and behind-the-scenes coverage.

So, there you have it. From expensive unicorns to delicious turkeys, fine wines, and luxury news, we’ve covered it all. Now, go out there and enjoy all the finer things in life. Cheers!