Elmer T. Lee 100 Year Tribute Commemorative Edition
Toast to a true pioneer of American whiskey with the Elmer T. Lee 100 Year Tribute Edition, a rare and highly coveted single barrel bourbon. Released by Buffalo Trace Distillery as a one-time-only bottling, this remarkable whiskey honors the life and legacy of the legendary Master Distiller Elmer T. Lee on what would have been his 100th birthday. This is more than just bourbon; it's a piece of history, bottled at a special 100 proof to mark the occasion. Secure this pinnacle of bourbon collecting through our preferred online retail partner, Nestor Liquor.
This commemorative edition was hand-selected from the same warehouses where Elmer himself famously discovered his "honey barrels." While it shares the same beloved mash bill as the classic Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel, this tribute edition is bottled at a higher proof, offering a richer, more profound expression of the flavors he cherished. For any connoisseur, this is an unmissable opportunity to experience a unique piece of the Buffalo Trace legacy.
Key Specifications:
Product: Elmer T. Lee 100 Year Tribute Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Age: No Age Statement (NAS), but believed to be aged similarly to the standard single barrel.
Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, KY
Brand History: The Legacy of a Legend
Elmer T. Lee (1919-2013) was a titan of the bourbon industry. A World War II veteran, he joined the George T. Stagg Distillery (now Buffalo Trace) in 1949 and rose through the ranks to become its first Master Distiller. In 1984, facing a downturn in bourbon's popularity, Elmer changed the course of whiskey history by introducing the world's first single barrel bourbon, Blanton's. This innovation single-handedly created the premium bourbon category we know today. After his retirement, Buffalo Trace honored him with his own namesake single barrel bourbon, for which he personally selected the barrels well into his 90s. This 100 Year Tribute bottle celebrates the profound impact of a man who saved an industry.
Tasting Notes: A Master's Palate, Elevated
Bottled at a higher 100 proof, the 100 Year Tribute Edition offers a more intense and complex flavor profile than its 90-proof sibling:
Nose: An elegant and inviting bouquet of maple syrup, rich vanilla, and sweet honey, beautifully complemented by notes of toasted oak and a hint of warm baking spices.
Palate: Exceptionally smooth and creamy. A wave of vanilla and butterscotch washes over the palate, mingled with notes of sweet berries and dark fruit. The higher proof adds a delightful richness and depth that amplifies the classic Elmer T. Lee character.
Finish: The finish is remarkably long and satisfying, with lingering notes of warm vanilla, rich coffee, and a final, gentle touch of toasted oak and spice.
Why the 100 Year Tribute Edition is a Collector's Dream:
A Historic, One-Time Release: This bottle was produced only once to celebrate Elmer T. Lee's centennial, making it an incredibly rare and significant collector's item.
Elevated Proof and Flavor: At 100 proof, it offers a richer, more complex, and more intense tasting experience than the beloved original.
Tribute to a Pioneer: Owning this bottle is a direct connection to the man who created the single barrel category and revitalized the American whiskey industry.
The Ultimate "Honey Barrel": Hand-selected by the discerning team at Buffalo Trace to meet the high standards of Elmer T. Lee himself.
Exceptional Rarity: As a highly allocated, one-time release, the 100 Year Tribute is one of the most sought-after commemorative bourbons in the world.
The Elmer T. Lee 100 Year Tribute is a masterfully crafted bourbon that honors a true master of the craft. Contact Nestor Liquor to inquire about acquiring this incredibly rare and historic bottle for your collection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: How is the 100 Year Tribute Edition different from the standard Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel?
A: The two main differences are proof and rarity. The 100 Year Tribute is bottled at 100 proof, compared to the standard 90 proof. It was also a one-time-only release for Elmer's 100th birthday in 2019, making it significantly rarer and more collectible.
Q: What is Buffalo Trace Mash Bill #2?
A: This is one of Buffalo Trace's two primary bourbon mash bills. It is known for having a higher rye content (estimated around 12-15%) compared to their Mash Bill #1. This mash bill is also used for other famous brands like Blanton's and Rock Hill Farms.
Q: What does "Single Barrel" mean?
A: A single barrel bourbon is bottled entirely from one individual barrel, rather than being a blend of multiple barrels. This means each bottle can have slight variations in its flavor profile, reflecting the unique character of its specific barrel.
Q: Is this bourbon worth the high price on the secondary market?
A: Value is subjective, but its one-time release status, higher proof, and connection to the legendary Elmer T. Lee make it one of the most coveted bottles for serious bourbon collectors. Its market value reflects its extreme rarity.
Q: How should I enjoy the Elmer T. Lee 100 Year Tribute?
A: To fully appreciate its rich complexity and nuances, this bourbon is best enjoyed neat in a proper tasting glass. A few drops of water can be added to open up the aromas and slightly temper the 100 proof if desired.
Q: Where can I purchase the Elmer T. Lee 100 Year Tribute Edition?
A: This is an extremely rare and highly allocated collector's item. We recommend contacting our preferred retail partner, Nestor Liquor, to inquire about their inventory and availability.
