Named after master distiller Elmer T Lee, this bourbon was launched after his retirement in 1985. This is a single barrel offering and comes at 45% ABV.
Elmer T Lee is credited with created mass-produced single barrel bourbons, specifically Blanton's brand. Oddly enough Elmer was initially denied a job at the George T Stagg Distillery (now Buffalo Trace Distillery) by then Master Distiller and President of the Distillery, Colonel Albert Blanton. He created Blanton’s bourbon in 1984 to honor Colonel, which is first ever single barrel bourbon sold commercially. Elmer T Lee single barrel bourbon supposedly has the same #2 Mashbill as Blanton’s!
Cᴏʟᴏʀ: Henna.
Lᴇɢꜱ: Thin-Medium.
Nᴏꜱᴇ: Light but inviting aromas of Maple, Caramel, Honey, Vanilla with hints of Anise and Orange.
Pᴀʟᴀᴛᴇ: Maple, Honey, Sweet Cherry, Caramel, some Candied Orange and Anise along with Cinnamon.
Fɪɴɪꜱʜ: Medium finish with Dry toasted Oak, leaving hints of Maple, Cinnamon Spice and Mint.
Overall, this is a lovely bourbon and easy to drink for change of pace among other high proof offerings.
Elmer T Lee died in 2013 at the age of 93; in 2013 Buffalo Trace launched one-time limited edition of Elmer T Lee bourbon at 93% proof to celebrate Master Distiller Emeritus. Similarly, Elmer T Lee 100-year tribute single barrel bourbon was launched in 2019 to commemorate his 100th birthday which was bottled at 100% proof.
I have to admit that my initial impression was a bit disappointing. But this Bourbon eventually opened up nicely and I enjoy the sweet flavors it brings out. On Bourbon chase: IMO this is a buy at retail around $33 and but not worth the chase, especially at the secondary pricing I have seen from $100 up to -$400.
Shardul - @DramVoyager
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