FRANKFORT, Ky. — Flooding in Frankfort this past week has affected Kentucky’s signature industry, bourbon. Distilleries, big and small, have felt the effects of the near record crest.
Most Fridays, Buffalo Trace Distillery has visitors for tours, tastings or even just to shop at the gift shop. But, this weekend, it will be quiet as the distillery will remain closed to the public through at least Sunday as crews continue to cleanup following near historic flooding.
Master Distiller Harlan Whetley said being on the Kentucky River for over 200 years, flooding is nothing new for Buffalo Trace Distillery.
“Ahead of the flood, we have an extensive plan that includes moving all the barrels on the lower floors to the upper floors. We move motors, electronic equipment and we’ve been there before so we’ve done it,” Wheatley said.
Distillery leaders provided an update on operations at the country’s oldest distillery. Tyler Adams, general manager at Buffalo Trace, said it’s one of the most severe events Buffalo Trace has seen. Some barrels were exposed to floodwater and staff are still working to determine how much inventory, if any, was lost.
“It really does start with an inspection of the barrel and just reviewing those for quality, so we’re committed to the quality here. I don’t have any more details on that but just know there’s a thorough, rigorous process we do have experience in,” Adams said.
Five miles down the road, Glenns Creek Distilling, also in Franklin County, was affected by floodwaters, although it didn’t reach the main building.
“We were fortunate that the main operation for our business wasn’t impacted directly so we can be thankful for that,” said David Meier, owner and head distiller at Glenns Creek Distillery.
Meier said floodwaters left behind damage in the main warehouse. He’s still working to determine exactly how much it will cost the craft distiller.
“It’s going to be significant. It’s too early to tell. Most of it’s going to be labor and then if I have to replace any equipment, you know cost of equipment is tens of thousands at least,” Meier said.
Glenns Creek Distilling reopened to visitors on Friday. Buffalo Trace is working to welcome bourbon enthusiasts back as soon as possible.
“We are committed to welcome the visitors back, especially as we lead up to Derby, so that’s the focus for us,” Adams said.
According to Whetley, Buffalo Trace resumed shipping Friday morning and plans to resume bottling Saturday.
Buffalo Trace Distillery said a modified retail store will be set up early next week in the Free House, where regular check-ins happen. Priority will be given to anyone with canceled tours during the closure with more details posted soon on their social media.
