Freddie Johnson

Freddie Johnson is a globally recognized ambassador for Buffalo Trace Distillery, where he brings more than two decades of storytelling, whiskey expertise, and authentic hospitality to audiences around the world. A third-generation member of the Johnson family at Buffalo Trace, Freddie now travels both domestically and internationally to represent the Distillery, engaging with bourbon enthusiasts, and deepening connections between Buffalo Trace and its global fanbase — all while maintaining strong roots in Frankfort, Kentucky. In this expanded ambassadorial role, he continues to share the rich heritage and culture of American whiskey on the world stage, inspiring both seasoned connoisseurs and new whiskey lovers alike.

Born in Paris, KY (Bourbon County), Freddie spent early summers in the mountains of Breathitt County with his maternal grandfather, a coal miner and friend to the moonshiners. His family moved to Frankfort when he was five, and he grew up hunting, fishing, and spending time at what is now Buffalo Trace Distillery with his father, Jimmy Johnson Jr., and grandfather, Jimmy Johnson Sr. – the latter having helped shape the Distillery’s legacy in its formative years.

Freddie was well into a successful career as a network/operations engineer in Atlanta, GA when he fulfilled a promise to his father to join Buffalo Trace and extend the Johnson family’s legacy. He took early retirement, returned home to care for family, and began working as a tour guide in 2002. Since then, he has entertained thousands of visitors with his trademark blend of humor, history, and heart.

One of Buffalo Trace’s most beloved figures, Freddie has received multiple honors throughout his career, including the 2015 ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Award, the 2017 Lexington (KY) Hospitality Award, induction into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame in 2018, and membership in the Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame in 2024 – a testament to his influence on the whiskey world.

In addition to his ambassadorial work, Freddie is deeply committed to preserving history. A portion of the proceeds from Freddie’s Old-Fashioned Soda, which launched in 2019, supports the restoration of historical sites. Currently, Freddie leads a project focused on Green Hill Cemetery in Frankfort, Kentucky. Using modern technology, such as sonar and geophysical mapping, the project has identified more than 5,000 potential unmarked and unrecognized burial sites. These efforts make it possible to discover, document, and install proper grave markers for individuals long forgotten, many of whom were brave soldiers, ensuring their lives and service are respectfully remembered for generations to come.

Whether on the road bringing whiskey education to fans globally, on the Distillery’s grounds sharing bourbon stories, or in the community giving back through charitable work, Freddie Johnson continues to make a lasting impact that blends heritage, generosity, and genuine connection.