In celebration of what would have been his 100th birthday, Buffalo Trace Distillery has released a 100 proof, commemorative bottling of Elmer T. Lee 100 Year Tribute Single Barrel Bourbon.
From his humble beginnings, few would have believed that Elmer would go on to create the world’s first single barrel Bourbon, named Blanton’s, and become a greatly celebrated master distiller. 100 years later, in honor of his work and life, the proceeds from the bottle sales will go towards Frankfort VFW Post 4075, where Elmer remained a member until his passing in 2013.
This limited-edition bottling is a one-time-only release. The Bourbon has the same age and mash bill as the standard Elmer T. Lee, but has been bottled at 100 proof.
Kris Comstock, senior marketing director at Buffalo Trace Comments: “After a century has passed since he was born, we want to honor Elmer and share our admiration with his family and others, while also giving back to Elmer’s local VFW. We were lucky to have Elmer with us for 93 years. As he grew older he continued to visit the Distillery weekly. The wisdom, expertise and friendship he shared during his weekly visits will never be forgotten. We think of him often and cherish the time he spent with us.”
Despite retiring from Buffalo Trace Distillery in 1985, Elmer continued to serve as an ambassador for the distillery.
Harlen Wheatley, current master distiller at Buffalo Trace adds: “What Elmer did for American whiskey is hard to grasp in today’s terms, but in 1984, Bourbon was in the doldrums and sales were low.
“Elmer took a big risk creating a single barrel Bourbon, but he hoped it would generate new interest and revive the industry. At first Blanton’s wasn’t popular, and Elmer feared it may not take off. But today, I think it’s safe to say Elmer made a wise move.”
The Elmer T. Lee 100 Year Tribute Single Barrel Bourbon will be available later this month, with very limited distribution and a suggested retail price of $100.
Elmer T. Lee 100 Year Tribute Single Barrel Bourbon
Tasting Note
nose Maple syrup up front
Taste: Creamy vanilla and berries
finish A long finish of coffee, toasted oak and vanilla
From his humble beginnings, few would have believed that Elmer would go on to create the world’s first single barrel Bourbon, named Blanton’s, and become a greatly celebrated master distiller. 100 years later, in honor of his work and life, the proceeds from the bottle sales will go towards Frankfort VFW Post 4075, where Elmer remained a member until his passing in 2013.
This limited-edition bottling is a one-time-only release. The Bourbon has the same age and mash bill as the standard Elmer T. Lee, but has been bottled at 100 proof.
Kris Comstock, senior marketing director at Buffalo Trace Comments: “After a century has passed since he was born, we want to honor Elmer and share our admiration with his family and others, while also giving back to Elmer’s local VFW. We were lucky to have Elmer with us for 93 years. As he grew older he continued to visit the Distillery weekly. The wisdom, expertise and friendship he shared during his weekly visits will never be forgotten. We think of him often and cherish the time he spent with us.”
Despite retiring from Buffalo Trace Distillery in 1985, Elmer continued to serve as an ambassador for the distillery.
Harlen Wheatley, current master distiller at Buffalo Trace adds: “What Elmer did for American whiskey is hard to grasp in today’s terms, but in 1984, Bourbon was in the doldrums and sales were low.
“Elmer took a big risk creating a single barrel Bourbon, but he hoped it would generate new interest and revive the industry. At first Blanton’s wasn’t popular, and Elmer feared it may not take off. But today, I think it’s safe to say Elmer made a wise move.”
The Elmer T. Lee 100 Year Tribute Single Barrel Bourbon will be available later this month, with very limited distribution and a suggested retail price of $100.
Elmer T. Lee 100 Year Tribute Single Barrel Bourbon
Tasting Note
nose Maple syrup up front
Taste: Creamy vanilla and berries
finish A long finish of coffee, toasted oak and vanilla
