FRANKFORT, KY, September 30, 2025 — Buffalo Trace Distillery has reached a historic milestone, filling its 9 millionth barrel of bourbon since Prohibition. This achievement, celebrated with a ceremony at the distillery on September 29, follows the completion of Buffalo Trace’s $1.2 billion expansion project earlier this year, which has dramatically accelerated production and capacity.
A Historic Chapter for America’s Oldest Continually Operating Distillery
Buffalo Trace has been crafting bourbon for over two centuries, with distilling at the site dating back to the 1770s and formal operations beginning in the 1850s. During Prohibition, the George T. Stagg Distillery (as it was then known) was one of the few authorized to produce medicinal whiskey. Official barrel counting began in 1933, and each millionth barrel milestone since has symbolized both heritage and resilience:
- 1942: 1 millionth barrel
- 1953: 2 millionth barrel
- 1961: 3 millionth barrel
- 1971: 4 millionth barrel
- 1981: 5 millionth barrel
- 2008: 6 millionth barrel
- 2018: 7 millionth barrel
- 2022: 8 millionth barrel
- 2025: 9 millionth barrel
This latest milestone came less than three years after the 8 millionth barrel, showcasing how expansion efforts have drastically shortened the timeline between celebrations.
The $1.2 Billion Expansion Project
Launched in 2015 and completed in January 2025, the decade-long expansion touched nearly every aspect of operations. The project added 20 new fermentation tanks, 19 new aging warehouses, three steam boilers, a new bottling facility, cistern room, still house, and distribution center, increasing production capacity by 150%.
“The filling of our nine millionth barrel represents not just growth, but a promise to future generations,” said Harlen Wheatley, Master Distiller. “Every barrel we fill ensures the same quality and craftsmanship that has defined Buffalo Trace since the 1850s.”
Warehouse V Tradition
Keeping with tradition, the 9 millionth barrel will be signed by team members and placed inside Warehouse V, the world’s only single-barrel warehouse. It will remain there until the 10 millionth barrel is filled. Visitors are welcome to view the barrel during regular tours, connecting them directly to this historic chapter of bourbon history.
A Celebration of Kentucky Bourbon
The ceremony marking the milestone was attended by Kentucky Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman, Franklin County Judge Executive Michael Mueller, Frankfort Mayor Layne Wilkerson, and third-generation team member Freddie Johnson, whose family has participated in every millionth barrel since 1942.
Lieutenant Governor Coleman remarked, “Buffalo Trace Distillery not only preserves centuries of craftsmanship, but also drives jobs, tourism, and opportunity for families across the Commonwealth.”
Buffalo Trace’s Legacy
Recognized as a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Buffalo Trace Distillery continues to set benchmarks in quality and innovation. Its whiskies have earned over 1,000 awards, including:
- 2024: William Larue Weller & Stagg named Best of Show at the Denver International Spirits Competition
- 2024: Traveller Whiskey recognized as the Most Awarded Super Premium Whiskey Release
Buffalo Trace remains committed to both bourbon excellence and philanthropy, with charitable initiatives that benefit communities across the U.S.
For more information, visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.