Wheatley took inspiration from bitter beers with floral aromas, infusing two distinct hops into new-make distillate for 30 minutes.

The hops used are Saaz noble hops, a Czechoslovakian variety commonly found in Bohemian pilsners, and Zythos, an American hop with tropical and subtle herbal notes.

The new make was then redistilled and aged in charred white oak casks for 11 years and seven months. 

Bottled at 45% ABV, the 26th edition of the Experimental Collection is said to present a nose of hoppy, herbal notes found in beer, as well as creamy vanilla and seasoned oak. On the palate, the expression offers lemon and orange zest with fresh herbal flavours and oak notes.

Buffalo Trace Distillery's second Prohibition Collection released earlier this month.

The experimental spirits series has been ongoing at the distillery for over 20 years, amassing a collection of more than 30,000 unique barrels. These experimental barrels feature variations in their recipes, wood types, and barrel toasting levels, leading to a wide array of distinct characteristics. 

Some of the previous releases have included a baijiu-style spirit (in 2021) and a peated Bourbon (in 2023).

Buffalo Trace Experimental Spirits Distilled from Grain and Hops will be available in limited quantities on select dates only at the Buffalo Trace Distillery gift shop. From late January 2025, each 375ml bottle will have a MSRP of US$46.99.

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team