The oldest continually operating distillery in the United States carries a deep history linked to legendary master distillers such as E.H. Taylor, Jr., Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee. It remains a family-owned business, set on the same 130-acre plot next to the Kentucky River for more than 200 years. Its signature bourbon has been crafted with the same methods for over two centuries. Now part of Sazerac, the distillery focuses solely on producing high-quality bourbon. It blends tradition with fresh ideas to keep the craft alive.

In 2006, a tornado damaged two of the distillery’s warehouses. Warehouse C, built by E.H. Taylor in 1885, was struck hard—parts of the roof were torn away. While repairs took place, some barrels were left exposed to the sun. The warm climate and weather sped up the aging process. Remarkably, the bourbon inside, aged from nine years and eight months to nearly 12 years, ended up tasting superb. Bottled at 100 proof, this bourbon has a rare story and a unique character. It’s a true survivor, a symbol of resilience.

Bring home a bottle of this remarkable tornado-damaged bourbon today.

About E.H. Taylor, Jr.

In 1869, Taylor bought a small distillery on the Kentucky River. He named it O.F.C. Distillery, after Old Fire Copper. Taylor started upgrading the plant with new equipment. He bought copper fermentation tanks, better grain grinders, and special column stills. He also introduced new methods like aging bourbon in climate-controlled warehouses.

Many distilleries then did not age their whiskey properly. Some added juices, syrups, or even tobacco to make their spirits more appealing. Others relied on additives to give bourbon its amber color. Taylor used his knowledge, influence, and politics to improve quality.

He helped pass the Bottled-In-Bond Act of 1897 with Treasury Secretary John G. Carlisle. The law made sure “Bonded” bourbon came from one distillery and one season. It also required spirits to age for at least four years in government-controlled warehouses and be bottled at 100 proof.

About Bourbon

Few drinks define America like bourbon does. Though most is made in Kentucky, it can be produced anywhere in the U.S. It must be made with at least 51% corn and bottled at 40% ABV or higher. Give this classic American drink a try and experience its rich history.

Secure your piece of bourbon history – Includes certificate of authenticity.

For the full tornado story, visit Buffalo Trace’s historical archive.

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