Traveller Whiskey, a recent addition to the whiskey market, immediately piqued my interest upon seeing it at a local store. This new release from the Buffalo Trace Distillery is a collaborative effort with the acclaimed musician Chris Stapleton. But Who Owns Traveler Whiskey, and what makes this partnership so unique?
The Power of Collaboration: Stapleton and Buffalo Trace
The story of Traveler Whiskey begins with a partnership between Chris Stapleton, a Kentucky native, and Harlen Wheatley, the Master Distiller at Buffalo Trace. Together, they embarked on a journey to create a whiskey that embodies both artistry and craftsmanship. Stapleton and Wheatley meticulously sampled over 50 different blends before settling on Blend No. 40 as the final expression of Traveler Whiskey. This blend is what’s currently available to consumers.
Buffalo Trace Distillery, known for its expertise in crafting high-quality spirits, provides the distilling and aging expertise. Chris Stapleton’s influence is in the selection of the final blend, bringing a unique perspective and taste profile to the whiskey. While Buffalo Trace is the producer, Chris Stapleton is deeply involved in the whiskey’s creation and image. So, to answer the question of who owns Traveler Whiskey, it’s jointly owned through this collaboration between Chris Stapleton and Buffalo Trace Distillery.
What to Expect From Traveler Whiskey
According to the official website, Traveler Whiskey aims to be Easy to Drink, Hard Not to Love. The description highlights complex aromas of vanilla, aged fruit, and buttery shortbread, rounded off by caramel and a touch of oak. Furthermore, the palate is expected to deliver a touch of sweetness, followed by spice, toasted nut, and oak flavors with a robust finish. This profile suggests a well-balanced and approachable whiskey suitable for a variety of palates.
Tasting Notes: A Detailed Examination
Like many whiskeys from Buffalo Trace Distillery, the mash bill and specific blend components remain undisclosed. This lack of transparency leaves consumers to rely on their own palates to discern the whiskey’s composition. Traveller Whiskey is bottled at 90 proof, offering a moderate alcohol content.
The bottle design is simple yet elegant, featuring a rounded shoulder and a label highlighting the name and Blend No. 40. A woodcut map drawing, visible through the bottle’s front, adds a touch of visual appeal and hints at the whiskey’s Kentucky roots.
- Eye: Golden honey hue.
- Nose: Subtle and straightforward aromas of vanilla, wood, stone fruits, and a hint of spice.
- Palate: The taste is gentle, almost subdued, with light notes of vanilla and wood. Some might find it slightly “watered down” in its intensity.
- Finish: Medium in length, with lingering flavors of vanilla, nutmeg, and dry oak char.
Final Verdict: Is Traveler Whiskey Worth It?
Priced between $35 and $40, Traveler Whiskey offers a smooth and easy-drinking experience, but it might leave some whiskey enthusiasts wanting more complexity and depth. The lack of transparency regarding the blend composition is a drawback for those who appreciate knowing the details behind their whiskey.
Traveler Whiskey Bottle Back Label
While Traveler Whiskey may not be the most remarkable offering in its price range, it could appeal to fans of Chris Stapleton or those seeking a smooth and approachable whiskey from Buffalo Trace. For those prioritizing transparency and exploring other options in the same price range, consider alternatives like Knob Creek, Wild Turkey 101, or Woodford Reserve, which offer greater clarity regarding their production and flavor profiles. So, while who owns Traveler Whiskey is a collaborative effort, the decision to purchase ultimately comes down to individual preference.
