Elmer T. Lee
6 products
Elmer T. Lee was the master distiller at Buffalo Trace Distillery (then George T. Stagg Distillery) from 1969 until his retirement in 1985, and is widely credited as the father of the modern single barrel bourbon category. In 1984, he selected and bottled the first commercially released single barrel bourbon in American history — establishing the standard that every single barrel program since has followed. He continued hand-selecting barrels for his namesake expression until his death in 2013 at age 93.
Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon is produced at Buffalo Trace from the same low-rye mashbill and warehouse system as Blanton's, Rock Hill Farms, and Hancock's President's Reserve. Each bottle is drawn from a single barrel selected for exceptional character, with the warehouse number and barrel number printed on the label. Bottled at 90 proof, Elmer T. Lee delivers a distinctly approachable yet complex profile — caramel, honey, dried fruit, and light spice with a long, smooth finish.
Elmer T. Lee is one of the most sought-after allocated single barrel bourbons in the Buffalo Trace portfolio. Stock is limited and sells quickly when available. Wooden Cork ships Elmer T. Lee nationwide.
Single Barrel Program
Each Elmer T. Lee bottle carries the specific barrel number and warehouse of origin — a direct continuation of the single barrel tradition Lee himself established in 1984. No two barrels are identical; proof, color, and subtle flavor variation exists between individual barrel releases. Collectors often seek specific barrels or warehouse positions known for exceptional character.
How Elmer T. Lee Compares to Other Buffalo Trace Single Barrels
The Buffalo Trace single barrel portfolio from Mash Bill #2 (low rye) includes Blanton's, Rock Hill Farms, Hancock's President's Reserve, and Elmer T. Lee — all drawing from the same mashbill and warehouse system. Elmer T. Lee tends toward a lighter, more honeyed profile than Blanton's Original at similar proof. Rock Hill Farms is bottled at a higher 100 proof. Hancock's is the rarest of the four. Elmer T. Lee is typically the most approachable entry point to the group.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Elmer T. Lee bourbon?
A single barrel Kentucky straight bourbon from Buffalo Trace Distillery, named after the master distiller who created the single barrel bourbon category in 1984. Bottled at 90 proof from individually selected barrels, each carrying a specific warehouse and barrel number on the label.
Is Elmer T. Lee hard to find?
Yes — Elmer T. Lee is an allocated release from Buffalo Trace with limited annual production. It is among the most sought-after single barrel bourbons in the Buffalo Trace portfolio and sells out quickly when it hits allocation. Wooden Cork ships nationwide when stock is available.
How does Elmer T. Lee compare to Blanton's?
Both are Buffalo Trace single barrel bourbons from the same low-rye Mash Bill #2. Elmer T. Lee tends toward a lighter, more honeyed profile — caramel and dried fruit forward — while Blanton's Original is typically spicier and bolder at the same 93 proof (vs Elmer T. Lee's 90 proof). Both are allocated and in high demand.
What is the MSRP for Elmer T. Lee?
The MSRP for Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel is approximately $35–40 at the distillery suggested retail level, though secondary market and specialty retailer pricing reflects its allocated status and significantly exceeds that figure. Wooden Cork pricing reflects current market availability.
Where can I buy Elmer T. Lee bourbon?
Wooden Cork carries Elmer T. Lee when allocation is available. Order online for fast nationwide shipping with adult-signature delivery.
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