Buffalo Trace Distillery Begins Recovery After Devastating and Historic Flooding

Posted on by Scott Dilley

Buffalo Trace Distillery Details Plans for Recovery and Reopening After April 2025 Flooding of the Kentucky River

As flood waters from the Kentucky River have receded, Buffalo Trace Distillery has begun recovery and clean-up operations across its historic campus. According to the company, engineers and restoration professionals are actively assessing damage to facilities. The full extent of the impact is still being determined, but the distillery has already resumed shipping operations, with bottling expected to restart sometime next week.

I am grateful for the excellent preparation work that our teams completed in advance of the flood, which mitigated the extent of the damage we might otherwise have sustained. Restoration of this National Historic Landmark is our top priority to ensure a quick return to making quality, award-winning whiskey and welcoming guests from around the world.
– Jake Wenz, Sazerac & Buffalo Trace Distillery CEO and President

Barrel Inspection Underway Following Flood Exposure

Detailed inspections of whiskey barrels that came into contact with flood waters began on April 10 and will continue over the coming weeks. These inspections involve both physical assessment and Buffalo Trace’s standard quality testing process. Based on previous flood events, the distillery expects minimal loss of product.

A lot of heart and soul goes into every product we make, which is why our team is dedicated to testing with heavy scrutiny each barrel possibly affected by flood waters to ensure there are no issues. We have never, nor will we ever, compromise on the quality or safety of the whiskey we make.
– Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley

The Buffalo Trace Visitor Center & Gift Shop and Blanton’s Bottling Hall shown during flooding (centered in the above).

Visitor Center Remains Closed Through April 13

Buffalo Trace’s Visitor Center experienced first-floor flooding and will remain closed through Sunday, April 13. A phased reopening plan is underway. The distillery plans to offer a modified retail experience from the Freehouse Building beginning next week. This service will initially be available to guests who had existing reservations interrupted by the flooding.

More information will be shared on Buffalo Trace’s official social media pages and website as recovery progresses.

Limited On-Site Access During Recovery

At this time, only select staff, contractors, and essential guests are permitted on-site. The distillery asks for patience from the public as recovery teams work to restore operations.

We know it is disappointing to have the Distillery closed and it is our top priority to welcome guests again as soon as possible. We also want to again say a heartfelt thanks to our team who has been tireless in their support, and the Franklin County community as well as our fans and vendor partners for their support and understanding during this time.
– Jake Wenz, CEO and President

Support Available Through Franklin County Flood Relief Fund

In coordination with the local government, Buffalo Trace encouraged support for the Franklin County Flood Relief Fund. This initiative aims to provide resources for those impacted in the community. Donations can be made at this website.

For ongoing updates, follow Buffalo Trace Distillery on Instagram @buffalotracedistillery or visit buffalotracedistillery.com.

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