Throughout Buffalo Trace’s long history, several industry legends have been instrumental in carrying on the time-honored tradition of making bourbon. Below are bourbon pioneers and the story of their contributions to Buffalo Trace Distillery.
Owner and Distiller of O.F.C. Distillery
Known as the Father of the Modern Bourbon Industry, Taylor modernized the distillery, introduced copper fermentation tanks and championed the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, helping elevate standards across the bourbon industry.
Owner and Operator of O.F.C. Distillery
A visionary businessman who owned and expanded the O.F.C. Distillery into one of the largest of its time, laying the foundation for Buffalo Trace’s future.
President of George T. Stagg Distillery
A dedicated distillery professional who led operations through Prohibition, Albert B. Blanton's legacy endures in the world's first single-barrel bourbon, created in his honor.
Whiskey Wholesaler
A true pioneer, the first person to commercialise wheated bourbon mashbills, creating a smoother, softer style of whiskey that endures in Buffalo Trace Distillery’s wheated bourbons today.
Founder of the Old Rip Van Winkle Brand
A legend in bourbon history, Van Winkle built one of the most respected brands in American whiskey, celebrated for patience and uncompromising quality.
George T. Stagg Plant Manager
Like many of the legendary craftsmen before him, Orville was active in the development of not only the Distillery, but the surrounding community as well.
Master Distiller
The visionary behind Blanton’s, Elmer T. Lee introduced the first single-barrel bourbon and inspired a new era of innovation in whiskey.
Warehouse Operations Manager
A steady and essential craftsman who maintained production and exacting quality standards through decades of change at Buffalo Trace.
Warehouse Manager
A pioneering warehouse manager whose innovations in airflow and barrel aging reshaped how bourbon matures. His legacy endures in E.H. Taylor expressions and Buffalo Trace’s experimental releases.
Master Distiller
The 6th Master Distiller since the Civil War, Wheatley continues to push boundaries with experimental warehouses and new whiskey expressions.
President of Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery
A third-generation steward of the Van Winkle legacy, Julian P. Van Winkle III ensures these rare bourbons remain among the most sought-after in the world.
Executive Chairman of Sazerac Company, Inc.
As Executive Chairman, Mark Brown oversees Buffalo Trace's progression into an era of global acclaim, historic expansion and award-winning innovation.
Global Whiskey Ambassador
A beloved third-generation employee and storyteller, Freddie Johnson shares the heart and history of Buffalo Trace with visitors worldwide. His legendary tours blend deep knowledge with genuine passion.
Master Blender and Director of Quality
With decades of blending expertise, Drew Mayville safeguards consistency and elevates excellence across Buffalo Trace’s diverse whiskey portfolio.
Buffalo Trace Distillery’s history, beginning in 1775, is marked by milestones and defining moments. Discover the events that shaped its legacy and continue to inspire its craft.
Hancock and Willis Lee established Leestown North
of the Frankfort settlement along the Kentucky River,
now home to Buffalo Trace Distillery.
E. H. Taylor, Jr. invests over $70,000, a “small fortune,”
as he builds a new distillery on the site.
The Distillery is re-christened
as the George T. Stagg Distillery
