Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream

Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream – A Complete Review, Tasting Notes, Brand Story & FAQs

Imagine the rich, caramel-and-vanilla notes of a world-class Kentucky bourbon seamlessly intertwined with the smooth, luxurious texture of fresh dairy cream. This is the irresistible allure of Buffalo trace bourbon and cream, a decadent spirit that has captured the hearts of dessert cocktail enthusiasts and bourbon lovers alike. As a delightful extension of the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery portfolio, this cream liqueur offers a versatile and approachable way to enjoy the distillery’s iconic flavor profile in a sweet, sip-able form. It’s a testament to the distillery’s innovation, proving that their expertise extends beyond classic straight bourbon whiskey into the realm of indulgent, crafted spirits.

At Rare Finds Liquor Store, we appreciate all expressions of distilling artistry, from the rare aged buffalo trace bourbons to their more playful and accessible creations. This guide is your complete resource for Buffalo trace bourbon and cream, covering its delicious tasting profile, its prestigious heritage, and the countless ways you can enjoy it.

The Prestigious Heritage: Buffalo Trace Distillery

To understand the quality of this bourbon cream, one must first look to its source: the hallowed Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. A National Historic Landmark, this is the same distillery responsible for some of the most sought-after American Kentucky whiskey in the world, including the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, Van Winkle, and Blanton’s.

The master distillers at Buffalo Trace didn’t just create any cream liqueur; they infused it with their award-winning Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight whiskey. This foundational element ensures that unlike other cream liqueurs, this product has a genuine, complex bourbon backbone. The use of their own straight bourbon means you’re getting authentic notes of vanilla, oak, and caramel that are the hallmark of all buffalo trace bourbons, perfectly balanced with the rich cream.

What is a Bourbon Cream? A Delicious Category Explained

Bourbon cream is a category of cream liqueur that specifically uses bourbon whiskey as its base spirit. It sits at the delightful intersection of bourbon whiskey and dairy-based dessert liqueurs.

• The Base: At its heart is Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, which, by legal definition, must be made from at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels. This gives the liqueur its characteristic vanilla, caramel, and oak notes.

• The Blend: The bourbon is then carefully blended with fresh dairy cream and natural flavors, typically including vanilla and chocolate notes, to create a smooth, sweet, and decadent product.

• The Experience: The result is a spirit that is lower in alcohol (typically around 15% ABV or 30 proof) than straight bourbon, making it perfect for sipping neat, over ice, or as a key ingredient in simple yet impressive cocktails.

Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Sweetness and Spirit

Tasting this spirit is a pure delight. It’s designed for enjoyment, not intense analysis, but its quality is evident from the first sip.

Nose

The aroma is immediately inviting and dessert-like. The sweet, rich scent of fresh cream and vanilla bean is dominant, followed closely by the distinct and comforting notes of the Buffalo Trace bourbon base—think warm caramel, a hint of brown sugar, and a very subtle, rounding oakiness. There is no harsh alcohol scent, making it incredibly approachable.

Palate

The texture is luxuriously smooth and creamy, coating the palate beautifully. The flavor profile is a perfect harmony of its two core components. The rich, sweet cream and vanilla flavors hit first, reminiscent of high-quality melted vanilla ice cream. This is swiftly followed by the warm, recognizable taste of Buffalo Trace bourbon, which introduces notes of caramel, a touch of honey, and a whisper of baking spice. The bourbon doesn’t get lost; it complements the cream, preventing the experience from being cloyingly sweet and adding a sophisticated depth that lesser cream liqueurs lack.

Finish

The finish is relatively short, clean, and pleasantly sweet. It leaves a lingering taste of vanilla custard and a final, warm hint of bourbon that reminds you of its quality origins. It’s a satisfying conclusion that simply makes you want another sip.

Beyond the Glass: Buffalo trace bourbon and cream Recipes

The true magic of this spirit lies in its incredible versatility. While delicious on its own over ice, it truly shines as a key player in a variety of cocktails and desserts. Here are some classic and creative Buffalo trace cream bourbon​ recipes to try:

1. The Simple & Classic: Bourbon Cream on the Rocks

   • The easiest way to enjoy it. Pour two ounces over a large ice cube in a rocks glass. The slight dilution opens up the flavors and makes for a perfect after-dinner drink.

2. The Crowd-Pleaser: Bourbon Cream & Root Beer

   • Fill a tall glass with ice. Add 1.5 oz of bourbon cream and top with root beer. This creates a decadent, grown-up root beer float that is always a hit.

3. The Coffee Enhancer: Bourbon Cream Coffee

   • Add a shot (1.5 oz) to your favorite hot coffee for an instantly elevated morning treat or evening nightcap. It’s far superior to standard cream and sugar.

4. The Elegant Dessert: Buffalo trace cream bourbon​ Martini

   • Combine 2 oz bourbon cream and 1 oz vanilla vodka in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a few coffee beans or a cinnamon stick.

5. The Holiday Special: Bourbon Cream Hot Chocolate

   • Stir 1.5 oz of bourbon cream into a mug of rich hot chocolate. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for the ultimate cozy drink.

Comparison & Context: How It Stands Out

In the world of cream liqueurs, the use of a high-quality, name-brand bourbon as the base is what sets this product apart. Many competitors use a generic, neutral whiskey spirit. By building their cream liqueur on the foundation of their flagship handcrafted using Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, the distillery ensures a superior and more authentic flavor profile that bourbon enthusiasts will immediately recognize and appreciate.

Acquisition: Price, Availability, and How to Find It

Fortunately, acquiring a bottle of this delightful spirit is far easier than hunting for an allocated bottle of Buffalo Trace Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

• Price Point: It is very affordably priced, often comparable to a standard bottle of the base Buffalo Trace bourbon whiskey. It represents exceptional value for a premium cream liqueur.

• Availability: While subject to local inventory, it is widely distributed. A search for “Buffalo trace cream bourbon​ near me” or “buffalo trace cream bourbon near me” should yield positive results at well-stocked liquor stores. For those who prefer online shopping, retailers like Rare Finds Liquor Store often have it available for convenient delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does Buffalo trace bourbon and cream need to be refrigerated?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended that you refrigerate Buffalo trace bourbon and cream both before and after opening. Because it contains real dairy cream, refrigeration is essential for maintaining its freshness, flavor, and quality. An unopened bottle can be stored in a cool, dark place, but once opened, it must be kept in the fridge.

Q2: How long does an opened bottle of Buffalo trace bourbon and cream last?
A: Once opened, it’s best to consume the bottle within 6 months for optimal flavor, provided it has been consistently refrigerated. Always check the aroma and appearance before consuming if it has been open for an extended period.

Q3: Is Buffalo trace bourbon and cream gluten-free?
A: According to the Buffalo Trace Distillery, all of their spirits, including their bourbon cream, are considered gluten-free. The distillation process removes gluten proteins. However, individuals with severe celiac disease or gluten sensitivities should always exercise caution and consult with a physician.

Q4: Can I use this in baking?
A: Absolutely! It is a fantastic ingredient for baking. You can use it to add a rich, bourbon-kissed flavor to cheesecakes, frosting, bread pudding, tiramisu, or even as a drizzle over pound cake. Search for “Buffalo trace bourbon and cream recipes” online for endless culinary inspiration.

Q5: What’s the difference between this and Irish Cream?
A: The primary difference is the base spirit. Irish Cream uses Irish whiskey, which tends to be lighter and smoother with a different grain profile. Bourbon cream buffalo trace uses Kentucky bourbon, which, by definition, has a prominent corn-based sweetness and distinct notes of vanilla and caramel from the new charred oak aging process. The result is a cream liqueur with a uniquely American, bourbon-forward character.

Conclusion: An Indulgent Staple for Any Home Bar

Bourbon cream buffalo trace is more than just a novelty; it’s a thoughtfully crafted, high-quality spirit that delivers on its promise of deliciousness. It successfully bridges the gap between the sophisticated world of bourbon and the universal love for sweet, creamy desserts. Whether you are a seasoned bourbon aficionado looking for a new way to enjoy your favorite distillery’s profile, or someone simply seeking a delectable and versatile after-dinner drink, this bourbon cream is an impeccable choice.

It demonstrates that the Buffalo Trace Distillery‘s commitment to quality is unwavering, regardless of the expression. From their benchmark straight bourbon to this indulgent cream, excellence is the constant.

At Rare Finds Liquor Store, we celebrate all tiers of spirit craftsmanship. While we are known for hard-to-find rare bourbon, we also champion accessible, well-made products that bring people together. Bourbon cream buffalo trace​​ is one of those special bottles that deserves a permanent spot in your refrigerator, ready to elevate a quiet evening or become the star of your next gathering.

Explore our curated collection at Rare Finds Liquor Store. From the most sought-after allocated bourbons to delightful spirits like Buffalo trace bourbon and cream, we are your premier online destination to buy bourbon online.