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Buffalo Trace Distillery Resilient After Historic Flooding
Frankfort, Kentucky—The Buffalo Trace Distillery, celebrated as America’s oldest-running distillery, proudly reopened its doors just in time for the excitement of the Kentucky Derby. This reopening follows a tumultuous month where raging floods wreaked havoc on its sprawling 400-acre campus, nearly closing its operations entirely.
A History of Resilience
Buffalo Trace Distillery has long been a cornerstone of Frankfort, but the unprecedented flooding in March 2025 brought the nearby Kentucky River deluging over 48 feet above its banks, impacting every building on the premises. Master distiller Harlen Wheatley expressed the severity of the damage, commenting, “Every building that you see had four or five feet of water in it.” However, this isn’t the first time the distillery has faced adversity. Established over two centuries ago, the distillery has weathered prior storms, including a catastrophic flood in 1978 and devastating tornadoes in 2006. In an interview, Tyler Adams, the general manager, reaffirmed their commitment to the site, stating, “We have no plans of slowing down; that water's just a speed bump.”
Community Support and Economic Impact
The reopening is not merely about bourbon production; it represents a beacon of hope for the local community still grappling with the aftermath of the flooding. Frankfort’s Mayor Layne Wilkerson remarked, “It’s an iconic part of our identity here in Frankfort,” emphasizing the significance of the distillery to local culture and economy. The distillery employs about 770 workers, all of whom rely on its continued operation. With the return of limited tours and tastings during Derby Week, the distillery once again attracts tourists eager to experience its offerings.
The Significance of Derby Week
Derby Week is a critical time for Buffalo Trace, as the local community gears up for one of the most famed horse racing events in the country. For attendees, bourbon plays an integral role in the festivities, with drinks like the classic mint julep serving as an essential component. “You need bourbon, you need mint juleps, and you need horses; otherwise, it’s not Derby,” said local resident Colleen Calvy.
Hope for the Future
The resilience exhibited by both the distillery and the community is inspiring. With continued support, both will emerge stronger than ever. Buffalo Trace is preparing to enhance its community engagement as it steps back into the limelight this Derby Week.
Why Your Support Matters
The distillery’s reopening is a call to action for residents and fans of bourbon alike. Embracing local businesses that withstand natural adversity plays a pivotal role in sustaining the community. Supporting Buffalo Trace not only celebrates the craftsmanship of bourbon but also honors the spirit of resilience that underpins the legacy of Frankfort, Kentucky.
Conclusion
The Buffalo Trace Distillery stands as a testament to perseverance and community spirit. As it reopens after historic floods, the heart of Frankfort beats stronger with each bottle produced. Let’s raise a glass to the resilience of local businesses, and remember that each sip of bourbon is a reflection of the story behind it.
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