Restoration efforts are in full swing at Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky following the recent flooding that inundated the renowned whiskey-making facility. As the floodwaters from the nearby Kentucky River have subsided, the distillery is now focusing on the meticulous process of assessing any bourbon barrels that came into contact with the high water. This task is expected to be time-consuming, according to executives at the distillery.
Buffalo Trace has already resumed shipping its spirits, with plans to restart its bottling operations in the near future. Jake Wenz, the CEO and president of Sazerac Co. and the distillery, expressed optimism about welcoming visitors back to the historic grounds. Although the distillery remains closed to guests until Sunday, there are plans to open the campus to visitors on a limited basis soon.
“Restoring this National Historic Landmark is a top priority. We are committed to resuming the production of our quality, award-winning whiskey and eagerly anticipate welcoming guests from around the globe,” Wenz stated in a release.
The Frankfort, Kentucky-based distillery, known for producing highly sought-after bourbon brands, was severely affected by floodwaters following prolonged downpours that caused rivers in the Bluegrass State to swell to near-record levels.
With the receding of the murky waters, cleanup efforts at Buffalo Trace are advancing. Teams comprising engineers and restoration specialists have been diligently assessing damage sustained by the flooded buildings. The extent of the damage is still being evaluated.
Among the assessments are inspections of barrels filled with aging whiskey, a crucial process as bourbon derives its distinct flavor and color while aging. Although some barrels were relocated to higher floors in anticipation of rising waters, inspections for all potentially affected barrels began on Thursday. This thorough evaluation process is expected to take several weeks, with the distillery noting that no significant inventory loss is anticipated.
Harlen Wheatley, Buffalo Trace’s master distiller, emphasized the comprehensive approach being deployed, which includes both rigorous barrel inspections and stringent quality control measures. Drawing on experience from prior flooding events, the distillery remains confident in its recovery processes.
“A considerable amount of effort goes into each of our products, and our team is committed to meticulously examining each barrel potentially impacted by floodwaters to ensure no quality issues arise,” Wheatley explained.
Efforts have begun to clean and restore the distillery’s visitor center, which saw floodwaters reaching the first floor. Even amidst these repairs, the distillery plans to open a modified version of the center at the earliest opportunity.
As an initial step, the distillery intends to operate a temporary retail space from the visitor check-in center. Access will be managed via an email reservation system, with priority given to those whose tours were previously affected by the flooding.
Buffalo Trace Distillery, owned by Sazerac, produces popular bourbon brands including Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, and W.L. Weller.