The Back Story
As the big Grammy Awards weekend approaches, Weekend Sip brings to mind the various artists and groups, like Jennifer Lopez and Lynyrd Skynyrd, who have ventured into the world of spirits.
Adding to this growing list is country star Chris Stapleton, who is nominated for three awards this year. With a total of eight Grammy wins under his belt, including Best Country Album for his breakout record “Traveller” in 2015, Stapleton now introduces his own whiskey of the same name.
Collaborating with Buffalo Trace Distillery, an esteemed bourbon producer, Stapleton’s creation stands out from the rest. While we previously sampled the $10,000 Eagle Rare 25 bourbon from Buffalo Trace, “Traveller” falls into a different category. Priced at a modest $39.99, it is classified as an American blended whiskey rather than a pure bourbon.
American blended whiskey allows for more flexibility in its composition, combining elements from various sources, including both bourbon and grain neutral spirits. In the case of “Traveller,” the focus remains on the whiskey itself. The Buffalo Trace team carefully selected whiskeys from Sazerac’s extensive portfolio, which includes renowned labels such as E.H. Taylor and Stagg.
The Collaboration Behind Traveller American Blended Whiskey
Country music superstar Chris Stapleton has been heavily involved in the creation of Traveller American Blended Whiskey. Throughout the entire process, Stapleton worked closely with the team at Buffalo Trace to find the perfect blend from a wide selection of options. As a Kentucky native, Stapleton has always been a fan of Buffalo Trace whiskey, making his decision to collaborate with the brand an easy one.
Stapleton admits that his expertise in whiskey is limited, stating, “I can’t speak in educated terms other than ‘I like it’ or ‘I don’t like it.'” However, it is clear that he is thrilled with the final product he has produced alongside Buffalo Trace.
Traveller American Blended Whiskey offers a level of craftsmanship and quality that is often not associated with blended whiskeys. While typically found in the value-priced category, this bottle offers a sense of prestige at an affordable price. It presents as an approachable and slightly sweet choice, with delightful hints of caramel, oak, and toasted nuts. Yet, it still maintains its identity as a true whiskey, boasting richness and complexity that sets it apart.
How to Enjoy Traveller American Blended Whiskey
Traveller can be savored on its own, allowing you to fully appreciate its smooth flavors. If you’re looking to try something different, the Buffalo Trace team recommends enjoying it in a Whiskey and You cocktail – simply pour Traveller over ice.
For those seeking a bolder flavor experience, consider making a Country & Western cocktail. Combine Traveller with soda water, agave nectar, and freshly squeezed lime juice for an exciting twist.
With Traveller American Blended Whiskey, Chris Stapleton and Buffalo Trace have successfully crafted a whiskey that offers both approachability and sophistication. Cheers to their collaboration!