Buffalo Trace Distillery has announced a new ultra-premium bourbon that recreates 19th-century whiskey-making techniques pioneered by Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. The limited-edition Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. Distiller’s Council will retail for $1,499.99 when it launches in July 2025.
The 100-proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon represents the closest modern interpretation of bourbons produced under Taylor’s leadership at what is now Buffalo Trace Distillery. The release commemorates a pivotal 1996 meeting of bourbon industry veterans who sought to revive historical production methods.
E.H. Taylor Techniques Rediscovered Through Historic Meeting
The bourbon’s creation stems from a gathering nearly three decades ago when retired George T. Stagg Distillery craftsmen met at Buffalo Trace. During a tasting of more than 30 whiskeys, one participant observed, “Well, we don’t make whiskey the way we used to.”
This comment sparked discussions that led to rediscovering Taylor’s pioneering techniques, including his sour mashing process. Buffalo Trace has now applied for a patent on this revived method, combining it with modern distilling expertise.
The 1996 meeting, known among bourbon insiders as the “Distiller’s Council,” included industry legends such as Elmer T. Lee, Orville Schupp, and current Buffalo Trace Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley. Many attendees have since passed away, making this release a tribute to their contributions.
“Colonel Taylor’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation has helped shape every decision at our Distillery since he set our standards in 1870,” said Wheatley. “As many of them are no longer with us, we hope they are enjoying this angel’s share with the Colonel himself – watching proudly as we carry his vision forward.”
E.H. Taylor Legacy Shapes Modern Bourbon Standards
Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr., known as the “Father of the Modern Bourbon Industry,” purchased the O.F.C. Distillery in 1869 and introduced revolutionary production methods. His innovations included copper fermentation tanks and the first steam-heated barrel warehouses, which remain in use at Buffalo Trace today.
Taylor’s influence extended beyond production techniques. His advocacy led to the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, establishing quality standards that continue to define American whiskey. The new release honors this legacy through its 100-proof bottling strength, meeting bottled-in-bond requirements.
The bourbon comes in a vintage-style Grecian glass decanter modeled after a 1950s Old Taylor advertisement design. This marks the 14th release in the E.H. Taylor Jr. collection, which includes Small Batch, Single Barrel, and Barrel Proof Rye expressions.
In fall 2025, E.H. Taylor will join Buffalo Trace’s annual Antique Collection as its first bottled-in-bond bourbon. The Distiller’s Council release will be available at retail stores, restaurants, and bars nationwide starting July 2025.
