Elmer T. Lee 40th Anniversary Bourbon Whiskey 750mL is an exceptionally rare commemorative Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey from Buffalo Trace Distillery, released in 2026 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the original Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon. The release honors legendary master distiller Elmer T. Lee, who introduced his namesake single-barrel bourbon in 1986 after helping pioneer the modern premium single-barrel bourbon category. Selected from specially chosen barrels, this anniversary edition celebrates Lee’s lasting influence on Buffalo Trace and American whiskey.

Rich and elegant, the bourbon opens with aromas of caramel, vanilla, honey, ripe fruit, and seasoned oak. The palate develops layers of brown sugar, cherry, vanilla, toasted nuts, baking spice, and mature oak, followed by a long, balanced finish of caramel, warm spice, fruit, and lingering oak.

TASTING NOTES

  • Nose: Caramel, vanilla, honey, ripe fruit, toasted nuts, seasoned oak

  • Palate: Brown sugar, cherry, vanilla, baking spice, toasted nuts, mature oak

  • Finish: Long and balanced with caramel, warm spice, fruit, vanilla, and lingering oak

FAQS

• What is Elmer T. Lee 40th Anniversary Bourbon Whiskey?

It is a limited-edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey from Buffalo Trace Distillery, created to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Elmer T. Lee’s namesake bourbon.

• What does the 40th Anniversary celebrate?

The release celebrates 40 years since the introduction of Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon in 1986, honoring both the whiskey and Elmer T. Lee’s influence on the bourbon industry.

• Who was Elmer T. Lee?

Elmer T. Lee was a legendary Buffalo Trace master distiller whose career spanned decades. He played an important role in developing premium American bourbon and is closely associated with the rise of single-barrel bourbon.

• Where is Elmer T. Lee 40th Anniversary Bourbon produced?

It is produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, the historic distillery where Elmer T. Lee spent much of his career.

• Is Elmer T. Lee 40th Anniversary Bourbon limited?

Yes. As a special 40th Anniversary commemorative release, it is produced in limited quantities and is particularly appealing to collectors of rare Buffalo Trace and Elmer T. Lee bottlings.

• How should Elmer T. Lee 40th Anniversary Bourbon be enjoyed?

Given its limited nature, it is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to appreciate its caramel, vanilla, fruit, spice, and mature oak character.