Buffalo Trace Distillery has unveiled the 26th release in its Experimental Collection: Spirits Distilled from Grain and Hops. This innovative spirit brings together the worlds of whiskey and beer, showcasing the influence of hops on flavor profiles.

The Role of Hops

Hops, the cone-shaped flowers from the hop plant (Humulus lupulus), are essential in beer production, fulfilling four key roles:

1. Bitterness: They balance the sweetness of malted barley with bitterness from alpha acids.
2. Aroma and Flavor: Various hop types add an array of flavors and aromas—citrus, pine, floral, and more.
3. Preservation: Hops naturally inhibit microbial growth, extending beer’s shelf life.
4. Stability: They enhance foam stability and clarity in the final product.

While traditionally used in beer, hops are making their way into spirits. They can infuse unique botanical characteristics to a spirit, paralleling the use of botanicals in gin. However, adding hops to spirits requires careful balance to prevent overpowering bitterness.

Buffalo Trace’s Innovation

Buffalo Trace conducted extensive experimentation with non-traditional recipes and barrel treatments for over two decades, amassing more than 30,000 experimental barrels of whiskey. The distillery focuses on pushing boundaries to create exceptional drinking experiences, as emphasized by Global Director Andrew Duncan.

The latest release, crafted over ten years, combines two hop varieties—Saaz and Zythos—with a raw distillate. This blend then aged in charred white oak casks for over eleven years. The process aims to harness the aromatic and flavor-enhancing properties of hops while ensuring a balanced whiskey character.

Tasting Notes

Upon tasting, this spirit presents a uniquely hoppy aroma reminiscent of citrus and herbal notes, complemented by vanilla and oak. The palate is creamy with intense citrus flavors, featuring robust oak and lingering herbal notes on the finish.

Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley encourages experimentation with this spirit, suggesting that it works well in classic cocktails like a Manhattan.

Buffalo Trace’s Spirits Distilled from Grain and Hops, with an ABV of 45%, will be available in limited quantities starting February 2025, retailing for approximately $46.99. Each bottle in the Experimental Collection is offered in 375ml, reflecting its unique and limited nature.

For more information on Buffalo Trace’s offerings, visit Buffalo Trace Distillery.