Explore the top Buffalo Trace cocktails this legendary spirit has to offer.
If you’re a bourbon lover, chances are you’ve heard of Buffalo Trace.
From classic favorites to modern twists, I’ve rounded up the best Buffalo Trace drink recipes that you won’t want to miss.
Here are the best Buffalo Trace cocktails!
But first …
What is Buffalo Trace Bourbon?
Buffalo Trace Bourbon is a straight bourbon whiskey produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. It is made from a mash of corn, rye, and malted barley, and is aged for at least six years in new, charred oak barrels. Buffalo Trace Bourbon is known for its smooth, complex flavor, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice.
Buffalo Trace Distillery is one of the oldest and most respected distilleries in the United States. It has been in operation since 1775, and is the home of many award-winning bourbons, including Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare Bourbon, and Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon.
Related: Top 10 Four Roses Recipes, Ranked
Buffalo Trace Cocktails
Mix things up with these Buffalo Trace cocktails!
1. Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned
Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned is a classic whiskey cocktail that has been around for centuries.
This simple yet sophisticated drink is made with Buffalo Trace bourbon, Angostura bitters, and a sugar cube.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 1 sugar cube
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
- Muddle the sugar cube and bitters in a rocks glass.
- Add the bourbon and ice.
- Stir to combine.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
- Serve and enjoy!
The ingredients are stirred together in an old-fashioned glass and garnished with an orange peel to add a hint of citrus flavor.
To make the drink even more special, you can muddle some fresh fruit such as oranges or cherries into the mix before stirring everything together.
An oldie but a goodie, made even better with Buffalo Trace.
2. Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream White Russian
The Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream White Russian is a delicious and decadent cocktail that is perfect for a nightcap or a special occasion. It is made with a blend of vodka, coffee liqueur, and Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream, and it is topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. The cocktail is rich and creamy, with a smooth flavor that is both sweet and smoky. It is sure to warm you up on a cold night and leave you feeling relaxed and content.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce coffee liqueur
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream
- Ice
- Ground coffee, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill a rocks glass with ice.
- Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, and Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream.
- Stir to combine.
- Garnish with ground coffee, if desired.
- Serve and enjoy!
Tips:
- Use good quality vodka, coffee liqueur, and Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream. The quality of the ingredients will make a big difference in the taste of the cocktail.
- Don’t over-mix the cocktail. Over-mixing will make the cocktail cloudy.
- Use fresh, cold ice. Fresh, cold ice will make the cocktail taste better.
- Garnish the cocktail with ground coffee, if desired. The ground coffee will add a nice touch of flavor and aroma to the cocktail.
3. Buffalo Trace Manhattan
The Buffalo Trace Manhattan is a classic whiskey cocktail made with just three ingredients: Buffalo Trace, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
The combination of these three ingredients creates a smooth and balanced drink that can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine the bourbon, vermouth, and bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir until well-chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
- Serve and enjoy!
Sipping sophistication, is made oh-so-sweet with this Buffalo Trace Manhattan recipe.
4. Buffalo Trace Mint Julep
Sip on Southern sophistication with Buffalo Trace and mint.
It’s an iconic drink of the American South, often associated with horse racing and minty refreshment on hot summer days.
The traditional recipe calls for just four ingredients: bourbon whiskey, simple syrup, fresh mint leaves, and crushed ice.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 2 tablespoons simple syrup
- 10-12 mint leaves
- Crushed ice
- Mint sprig, for garnish
Instructions:
- Muddle the mint leaves in a julep cup or rocks glass.
- Add the bourbon, simple syrup, and crushed ice.
- Stir to combine.
- Garnish with a mint sprig.
- Serve and enjoy!
Indulge in the refined taste of Buffalo Trace and mint in a julep glass.
5. Buffalo Trace Boulevardier
Boulevardier is a classic whiskey cocktail that has been around since the 1920s.
It’s a simple yet delicious drink made with equal parts bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
The combination of these three ingredients creates an incredibly smooth and flavorful drink that can be enjoyed by all.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 1 ounce Campari
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth
- Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine the bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth in a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir until well-chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
- Serve and enjoy!
The Boulevardier is slightly bitter from the Campari but balanced out nicely by the sweetness from both the bourbon and vermouth, making it incredibly smooth to sip on its own or over ice cubes if preferred.
6. Buffalo Trace Sour
Pucker up for a classic Buffalo Trace sour.
Remember that shaking hard is key, so don’t be afraid to put some muscle into it.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 3/4 ounce lemon juice
- 3/4 ounce simple syrup
- Egg white (optional)
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine the bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using) in a shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously until the cocktail is frothy.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
- Serve and enjoy!
Make sure you don’t shake too long otherwise all those tiny air bubbles created during shaking will give your finished drink an unpleasant texture once served up.
7. Buffalo Trace & Frozen Coke
Buffalo Trace with Coke is an easy-to-make drink that can be enjoyed in many different ways. The sweetness of the cola complements Buffalo Trace bourbon, creating a unique taste experience.
This drink is perfect for those who enjoy the taste of whiskey but prefer a sweeter and more approachable option.
You can also add other ingredients to customize your drink, such as lemon or lime juice for added tartness or simple syrup for extra sweetness.
8. Cinnamon Hot Toddy
The Buffalo Trace Hot Toddy is a warm, comforting cocktail made with Buffalo Trace bourbon, hot water, lemon juice, honey, and spices such as cinnamon and cloves.
This drink is typically served in a mug and is known for its ability to warm the body and soothe the throat.
The Hot Toddy is a classic winter drink that has been enjoyed for centuries, and it is often used as a home remedy for colds and other minor ailments.
The Buffalo Trace version of this drink adds the rich, smooth flavor of bourbon to the traditional hot toddy recipe.
9. Buffalo Trace Kentucky Lemonade
This classic bourbon and lemonade cocktail is the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and refreshing.
It’s a great drink to enjoy on a hot summer day or any time you need something light and fruity.
The combination of Buffalo Trace bourbon’s smooth flavor profile along with the tangy citrus notes from the lemon juice creates an incredibly flavorful drink that will tantalize your taste buds like never before.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 4 ounces lemonade
- Ice
- Lemon wedge, for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a rocks glass with ice.
- Add the bourbon and lemonade.
- Stir to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge.
- Serve and enjoy!
The addition of simple syrup helps to cut through some of the acidity while adding just enough sweetness to round out each sip perfectly.
And finally, topping it off with club soda gives it that effervescent finish that makes this cocktail so enjoyable.
10. Buffalo Trace and Ginger Ale
This classic cocktail is a great way to enjoy Buffalo Trace and ginger ale for sipping during any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 4 ounces ginger ale
- Ice
- Lime wedge, for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add the bourbon and ginger ale.
- Stir to combine.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
- Serve and enjoy!
How do you mix a Buffalo Trace & Sprite cocktail?
You will also need a rocks glass, ice cubes, and a lemon wedge for garnish. Fill your rocks glass with ice cubes. Pour 2 ounces of Buffalo Trace bourbon over the ice. Top off with 4 ounces of Sprite. Garnish with a lemon wedge to add an extra hint of citrus flavor to the drink.
11. Buffalo Trace Bourbon Slush
A bourbon slush is a frozen cocktail made with bourbon whiskey, fruit juices, sweeteners, and sometimes tea or other ingredients.
The ingredients are combined and then frozen until slushy, creating a refreshing and icy drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 1 cup lemon juice
- 1 cup lime juice
- 1/2 cup frozen raspberries
- 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
- Ice
Instructions:
- Combine the water and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the bourbon, lemon juice, lime juice, raspberries, and blueberries.
- Pour into a blender and add enough ice to fill the blender halfway. Blend until smooth.
- Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Bourbon slush can be made in large batches and stored in the freezer, making it a convenient and crowd-pleasing option for summer gatherings or parties.
The specific ingredients and ratios can vary depending on the recipe, but common ingredients include bourbon whiskey, lemon juice, sugar, and fruit juices such as peach or cherry.
12. Buffalo Trace Kentucky Mule
The Kentucky Mule is a twist on the classic Moscow Mule cocktail.
It is made by combining bourbon, ginger beer, and lime juice over ice, and garnished with a lime wedge.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 0.5 ounces fresh lime juice
- Ginger beer
- Mint sprig, for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a copper mug with ice.
- Add the bourbon and lime juice.
- Top off with ginger beer.
- Garnish with a mint sprig.
- Serve and enjoy!
This drink combines the smooth and smoky flavors of bourbon with the spicy and tangy flavors of ginger beer for a unique and refreshing cocktail.
13. Buffalo Trace Bourbon Sweet Tea
Bourbon Sweet Tea is a refreshing cocktail made with bourbon, sweet tea, and syrup.
It is typically served over ice and garnished with a lemon wedge.
Ingredients:
- 8 cups water
- 6 black tea bags
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup bourbon
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
- Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.
- Remove from the heat and add the tea bags. Steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the tea bags and stir in the sugar until it has completely dissolved.
- Let the tea cool completely.
- Stir in the bourbon.
- Pour into glasses over ice and garnish with lemon wedges.
- Serve and enjoy!
This Buffalo Trace cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy the sweet and fruity flavor of peaches and want to add a touch of whiskey to their tea.
14. Buffalo Trace Bourbon Rickey
A Bourbon Rickey is a cocktail made with bourbon, lime juice, and carbonated water.
The drink originated in the late 1800s and was named after Joseph Rickey, a political lobbyist who was known for ordering the drink at bars in Washington, D.C.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 4 ounces club soda
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- Lime wedge, for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add the bourbon, club soda, and lime juice.
- Stir to combine.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
- Serve and enjoy!
The Bourbon Rickey is a simple and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for hot summer days.
The lime juice provides a tart, citrusy flavor that complements the rich, smooth taste of the bourbon, while the carbonated water adds a light and bubbly texture to the drink.
15. Buffalo Trace Brown Derby
The Brown Derby is a classic bourbon cocktail that was created in the late 1920s in Hollywood, California.
It is made with bourbon, honey syrup, and grapefruit juice.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 3/4 ounce grapefruit juice
- 3/4 ounce honey syrup
- Grapefruit twist, for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
- Shake until well-chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a grapefruit twist.
- Serve and enjoy!
The drink is named after the famous Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood, which was known for its innovative cocktails and celebrity clientele.
It’s a refreshing cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
Garnish with a grapefruit wedge or twist for an added touch of citrusy flavor.
16. Buffalo Trace Summer Breeze
The Summer Breeze is a refreshing and fruity bourbon cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
It typically consists of bourbon, cranberry juice, and orange juice, which are combined with a sweet and sour mix and ice.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 4 ounces orange juice
- 4 ounces ginger ale
- Ice
- Orange slice, for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add the bourbon, orange juice, and ginger ale.
- Stir to combine.
- Garnish with an orange slice.
- Serve and enjoy!
Some variations of the Summer Breeze may also include ingredients such as gin, triple sec, or lemon-lime soda to create a more complex flavor profile.
Garnish with a slice of orange or a cherry for an added touch of color and flavor.
17. Buffalo Trace Margarita
Add a touch of southern charm to a beloved Mexican classic with the Buffalo Trace Margarita.
This cocktail features the bold flavor of Buffalo Trace Bourbon with the tartness of lime juice and the sweetness of orange liqueur.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 1 ounce lime juice
- 1 ounce orange liqueur
- 1/2 ounce agave syrup
- Kosher salt, for rimming the glass
- Lime wedge, for garnish
Instructions:
- Rub a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass and dip the rim in kosher salt.
- Combine the bourbon, lime juice, orange liqueur, and agave syrup in a shaker with ice.
- Shake until well-chilled.
- Strain into the prepared glass.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
- Serve and enjoy!
Served over ice with a salt rim and garnished with a lime wedge, this cocktail is the perfect choice for those looking for a unique twist on a classic cocktail.
18. Buffalo Trace Lion’s Tail
Take a walk on the wild side with the Buffalo Trace Bourbon Lion’s Tail.
This cocktail features Buffalo Trace Bourbon, fresh lime juice, and allspice dram for a bold and spicy flavor.
Served over ice and garnished with a lime wedge, this cocktail is perfect for those who love a little kick in their drink.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 1 ounce Campari
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth
- 1 ounce Fernet-Branca
- Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir until well-chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
- Serve and enjoy!
The Buffalo Trace Lion’s Tail is a bourbon cocktail that was created by Buffalo Trace Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley. It is a riff on the classic Boulevardier cocktail.
19. Buffalo Trace Paper Plane
The Buffalo Trace Paper Plane is a classic cocktail made with Aperol, Amaro Nonino, lemon juice, and honey syrup.
The ingredients are stirred together and strained into a chilled glass, typically a cocktail or martini glass.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- ¾ ounce Aperol
- ¾ ounce Amaro Nonino
- ¾ ounce lemon juice
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
- Serve and enjoy!
This cocktail is known for its balanced blend of sweet, sour, and bitter flavors, and is a popular choice among bourbon drinkers and cocktail enthusiasts.
20. Buffalo Trace Bourbon Smash
A Bourbon Smash is a cocktail made with lemon juice, sugar, and bourbon.
The result is a delicious and fruity cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 2 tablespoons simple syrup
- 6-8 mint leaves
- 4-6 ice cubes
- Club soda, to top
- Mint sprig, for garnish
Instructions:
- Muddle the mint leaves in a rocks glass.
- Add the bourbon, simple syrup, and ice cubes.
- Stir to combine.
- Top with club soda.
- Garnish with a mint sprig.
- Serve and enjoy!
Some variations of the Bourbon Smash may also include additional ingredients such as fruit, mint or soda water to create a fizzier, and more complex flavor profile.
- Add a splash of soda water to the cocktail for a lighter flavor.
- Add a splash of fruit juice to the cocktail for a sweeter flavor.
- Add a splash of Campari to the cocktail for a more bitter flavor.
Best Way To Drink Buffalo Trace
The best way to drink Buffalo Trace bourbon is a matter of personal preference.
Some people prefer to enjoy it neat, meaning without any mixers or added ingredients, in order to fully savor its rich and smooth flavor.
Others might enjoy it on the rocks, meaning over ice, to help mellow the taste and make it more refreshing.
For those who enjoy mixed drinks, Buffalo Trace can be a great addition to classic cocktails such as Manhattans, Old Fashioneds, or Sours.
Ultimately, the best way to drink Buffalo Trace is however you enjoy it most.
Buffalo Trace Tasting Notes
Buffalo Trace Bourbon is known for its smooth and complex flavor profile, which is a result of the careful aging process and the unique blend of grains used to create it.
Here are some of the tasting notes you can expect to experience when you take a sip of Buffalo Trace Bourbon:
Aroma
The aroma of Buffalo Trace Bourbon is sweet and inviting, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and honey. There’s also a hint of spice that adds a subtle complexity to the scent.
Taste
When you take a sip of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, you’ll first notice the sweetness of the caramel and vanilla flavors, followed by a subtle nuttiness that’s reminiscent of toasted almonds. There’s also a hint of oak and a touch of spice that rounds out the flavor profile and adds depth and complexity.
Finish
The finish of Buffalo Trace Bourbon is long and smooth, with a warm and satisfying sensation that lingers on the palate. The oaky and nutty flavors continue to evolve and develop, leaving you with a sense of satisfaction and contentment.
Buffalo Trace Bourbon FAQs
What is bourbon?
Bourbon is a type of whiskey that is produced in the United States, made primarily from corn and aged in charred oak barrels. It is named after Bourbon County, Kentucky and must adhere to certain regulations set forth by the U.S. government to be designated as bourbon. It is a popular spirit known for its smooth and rich flavor.
What mixes well with Buffalo Trace?
Buffalo Trace is a versatile bourbon that can be paired with a variety of mixers and ingredients to create a range of different cocktails. Some popular mixers include ginger ale, club soda, lemon or lime juice, and bitters. Additionally, Buffalo Trace can be paired with sweet ingredients such as simple syrup or fruit juices to create more complex and nuanced cocktails.
Is Buffalo Trace a sipping whiskey?
Buffalo Trace can certainly be enjoyed as a sipping whiskey. Its smooth and balanced flavor profile, along with its warming and satisfying finish, make it a popular choice for those who enjoy sipping on neat or on the rocks.
Is Buffalo Trace similar to Crown Royal?
Buffalo Trace and Crown Royal are both premium whiskey brands, but they have distinct differences in terms of taste and production methods. Crown Royal is a Canadian whiskey made from a blend of different grains, while Buffalo Trace is a bourbon whiskey made from a blend of corn, wheat, and barley malt. As a result, Crown Royal has a slightly sweeter and milder flavor profile, while Buffalo Trace has a rich and smooth flavor profile with a slightly spicy finish.
What is Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream?
Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream is a liqueur made with Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and cream. It has a rich, sweet flavor with a smooth vanilla finish. It can be enjoyed chilled, on the rocks, or in coffee.
Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream is a versatile liqueur that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It is a great addition to any cocktail or coffee, and it can also be enjoyed on its own.
- Straight: Pour a shot of Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream into a glass and enjoy it neat.
- On the rocks: Add a few ice cubes to a glass and pour in a shot of Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream.
- In coffee: Add a shot of Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream to a cup of coffee and enjoy.
- In cocktails: Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream is a popular ingredient in cocktails such as the White Russian, the Black Russian, and the Mudslide.
Is Buffalo Trace good for beginners?
Buffalo Trace can be a great choice for those who are just starting to explore whiskey. Its smooth and balanced flavor profile, along with its approachable and easy-drinking nature, make it a popular choice for those who are new to whiskey.
Can you drink bourbon in the summer?
Yes, bourbon can be enjoyed all year round, including in the summer. In fact, many people prefer to drink bourbon in the summer due to its versatility and refreshing qualities when mixed with summer ingredients like fruit juices, iced tea, and simple syrups.
What is the best summertime bourbon?
The best summertime bourbon is a matter of personal preference. Some popular summer bourbon options include Bulleit Bourbon and Jim Beam. Light and smooth bourbons like these work well in a variety of summer cocktail recipes.
What is a good mixer with summer bourbon cocktails?
There are many good mixers that can be used in summer bourbon cocktails, including lemon or lime juice, simple syrup, iced tea, fruit juices, and tonic water. Experimenting with different mixers can help you find the perfect balance for your taste preferences.
How do I make a simple summer bourbon cocktail?
A basic recipe might include bourbon whiskey, a sweet mixer like simple syrup or fruit juice, and a tart mixer like lemon or lime juice. Simply mix the ingredients together in a glass filled with ice, stir, and garnish with a slice of fruit or a sprig of mint.
What ingredients should I have on hand for making summer bourbon cocktails?
To make a variety of summer bourbon cocktails, it is helpful to have a few basic ingredients on hand, including:
- Bourbon whiskey
- Simple syrup
- Citrus juices (such as lemon, lime, and orange)
- Fruit juices (such as peach, cherry, and cranberry)
- Herbs and spices (such as mint and basil)
- Bitters
- Club soda or tonic water
Bourbon vs Whiskey
Bourbon is a type of whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon.
The main difference between bourbon and whiskey is the type of grain used in the production process, and the geographical location in which the whiskey is made.
Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that is made from a mash bill (the mixture of grains used to make the whiskey) that must contain at least 51% corn.
It must be aged in new, charred oak barrels for at least two years and must be produced in the United States.
Whiskey, on the other hand, is a broader category that includes bourbon, as well as other types of whiskey such as Scotch, Irish whiskey, Canadian whiskey, and others.
Each type of whiskey has its own specific requirements for production, including the type of grains used, the distillation process, and the aging process.
Cheers!