Elmer T. Lee 40 Year Anniversary Single Barrel Bourbon 127.8 Proof

The Elmer T. Lee 40 Year Anniversary Uncut & Unfiltered Single Barrel Bourbon is a commemorative Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey bottled at barrel strength 127.8 proof (63.9% ABV) from Buffalo Trace Distillery. This limited-edition release honors four decades of single barrel bourbon legacy, delivered uncut and non-chill filtered to preserve maximum character and intensity.

Elmer T. Lee revolutionized American whiskey in 1984 when he introduced the world’s first commercially available single barrel bourbon, forever changing how connoisseurs experience premium Kentucky whiskey. Buffalo Trace Distillery continues this pioneering tradition with meticulous barrel selection and time-honored production methods. Collectors and enthusiasts who frequent sipwhiskey.com recognize this anniversary release as both a tribute to bourbon history and a showcase of uncompromising barrel-strength craftsmanship.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Dark caramel and vanilla custard, toasted oak spices, dried leather, candied orange peel, and subtle tobacco leaf
• Palate: Rich toffee and burnt sugar, cinnamon bark, dark chocolate, roasted almonds, with underlying notes of cherry preserves and baking spices
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering oak tannins, black pepper, maple syrup, and a hint of charred wood smoke

Product Details

Perfect For

• Serious Collectors: Commemorative anniversary release celebrating bourbon history
• Bourbon Connoisseurs: Barrel-strength intensity and unfiltered authenticity
• Investment Enthusiasts: Limited-edition Buffalo Trace heritage bottling
• Special Occasions: Milestone celebrations and premium bourbon experiences

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Elmer T. Lee anniversary bourbon special?

This 40th anniversary edition commemorates Elmer T. Lee’s pioneering introduction of single barrel bourbon in 1984. The bourbon is bottled uncut and unfiltered at barrel strength 127.8 proof, preserving the full intensity and character that made single barrel bourbon legendary.

How does Buffalo Trace Mash Bill #2 affect the flavor profile?

Buffalo Trace Mash Bill #2 contains a higher rye content than their standard mash bill, contributing spicier notes and more complex flavor development. This creates the characteristic cinnamon, pepper, and baking spice elements that distinguish this bourbon from lower-rye expressions.

Should I drink this bourbon neat or add water?

At 127.8 proof, this bourbon can be enjoyed neat by experienced bourbon drinkers, but adding a few drops of water can open up additional flavor layers. Start with small amounts of room temperature water to find your preferred strength while preserving the whiskey’s integrity.

What’s the collectible value of this anniversary release?

Limited commemorative releases from Buffalo Trace, especially those honoring bourbon pioneers like Elmer T. Lee, typically appreciate in value due to historical significance and restricted production. The uncut, unfiltered format appeals particularly to serious collectors and bourbon historians.

How does this compare to regular Elmer T. Lee bourbon?

This anniversary edition is bottled at much higher proof (127.8 vs 90 proof) and remains unfiltered, delivering significantly more intensity and barrel character. While regular Elmer T. Lee offers approachability, this commemorative release showcases the full power of single barrel bourbon craftsmanship.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.