Buffalo Trace Distillery reached a historic milestone Monday with the filling of its nine millionth barrel of bourbon since Prohibition ended, achieving the feat in just three years following completion of a $1.2 billion expansion project that increased production capacity by 150 percent.
Historic Bourbon Whiskey at Buffalo Trace
The Franklin County distillery, which has been producing whiskey since the 1770s, marked each previous millionth barrel at increasingly shorter intervals. The first million barrels took nine years to achieve in 1942, while the journey from eight million to nine million required only three years thanks to major infrastructure upgrades.
“Since official barrel counting began in 1933, each millionth barrel milestone has marked more than just a number: they stand as symbols of heritage, resilience and the timeless pursuit of excellence in bourbon,” said Harlen Wheatley, Buffalo Trace Distillery Master Distiller.
The expansion project, initiated in 2015 and completed in January 2025, touched nearly every aspect of operations. Improvements included a new distribution center, upgraded bottling facilities, 20 new fermentation tanks, three steam boilers and 19 aging warehouses. The distillery now operates as one of Kentucky’s largest bourbon producers, contributing to an industry that generates over $9 billion annually for the state’s economy.
Bourbon Whiskey Tradition Continues
Buffalo Trace’s achievement comes despite significant challenges, including a historic flood in April that affected 90 percent of the campus. The National Historic Landmark property, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recovered within months and maintained its production schedule.
The ceremonial nine millionth barrel will be stored in Warehouse V, the world’s only single-barrel warehouse, where visitors can view it during regular hours. Previous milestone barrels remain on display, creating a timeline of the distillery’s post-Prohibition history.
Kentucky Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman attended Monday’s ceremony alongside local officials. The event included third-generation employee Freddie Johnson, whose family has participated in every millionth barrel celebration since 1942.
Buffalo Trace’s portfolio includes award-winning brands such as William Larue Weller and Stagg, which won Best of Show honors at the 2024 Denver International Spirits Competition. The distillery produces bourbon, rye and vodka on site.
Trending Content
