Elmer T. Lee 'Commemorative Bottle' 1919-2013 Sour Mash Bourbon 750mL is an exceptionally rare Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey released by Buffalo Trace Distillery in honor of legendary Master Distiller Elmer T. Lee, who passed away in 2013 at the age of 93. Created as a special tribute to the man whose career helped shape both Buffalo Trace and the modern single barrel bourbon category, this commemorative release features the dates 1919–2013 and Elmer T. Lee’s name in distinctive gold lettering. Bottled at 93 proof (46.5% ABV), the commemorative edition has become one of the most sought-after Elmer T. Lee bottles among Buffalo Trace collectors.

The Elmer T. Lee Commemorative Bourbon delivers the balanced sweetness, fruit, spice, and oak associated with the celebrated Elmer T. Lee profile. Aromas of vanilla, caramel, honey, and ripe fruit lead into a smooth palate of brown sugar, maple, orange peel, baking spice, toasted nuts, and seasoned oak. The finish is long and elegant, leaving lingering notes of vanilla, sweet fruit, warm spice, and oak.

TASTING NOTES

  • Nose: Vanilla, caramel, honey, ripe fruit, toasted oak

  • Palate: Brown sugar, maple, orange peel, vanilla, baking spice, toasted nuts, seasoned oak

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

FAQS

• What is the Elmer T. Lee 1919-2013 Commemorative Bottle?

It is a special Elmer T. Lee bourbon released by Buffalo Trace Distillery as a tribute to legendary Master Distiller Elmer T. Lee following his passing in 2013.

• Who was Elmer T. Lee?

Elmer T. Lee was a legendary Buffalo Trace Master Distiller who worked at the distillery for decades and played an important role in popularizing single barrel bourbon, including the introduction of Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon.

• What proof is the Elmer T. Lee Commemorative Bourbon?

The commemorative release is bottled at 93 proof, or 46.5% ABV.

• What do the dates 1919-2013 represent?

They represent the lifespan of Elmer T. Lee, who was born in 1919 and passed away in 2013.

• Is the Elmer T. Lee Commemorative Bottle collectible?

Yes. Its one-time commemorative nature, connection to Elmer T. Lee, distinctive 1919–2013 presentation, and limited availability make it an especially desirable bottle among Buffalo Trace and American whiskey collectors.

• How should Elmer T. Lee Commemorative Bourbon be enjoyed?

Given its rarity and historical significance, it is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water, allowing its vanilla, caramel, fruit, spice, and oak characteristics to fully develop.