Buffalo Trace Distillery: Whiskey Tasting Experience

If you’re in London and craving a taste of genuine American bourbon, the Buffalo Trace Distillery Whiskey Tasting offers an engaging and flavorful journey. Sitting in Covent Garden, this experience allows you to step into the world of bourbon without crossing the Atlantic. While the experience is quite short—around 45 minutes—it packs enough personality and expert guidance to satisfy both novices and seasoned whiskey lovers.

What makes this tasting stand out? First, you get to sample three carefully selected Buffalo Trace expressions, and the intimate setting ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd. Second, the guides are praised for their knowledgeable yet relaxed approach, making the experience enjoyable whether you’re already a bourbon enthusiast or just bourbon-curious. That said, if you’re hoping for a lengthy, in-depth tour of a distillery, this might feel more like a quick starter rather than a deep dive. Overall, it’s suited for those looking for a fun, authentic activity—perfect for date nights, team-building, or simply an interesting way to spend part of a London day.

Contents hide

1 What to Expect at Buffalo Trace Distillery in London

2 The Reviews Tell the Story

3 Who Should Consider This Experience?

Key Points

Intimate Setting: Up to 20 guests, ensuring personalized attention.
Affordable Price: Around $26.93 per person—great value for a guided tasting.
Authentic Experience: Brings Kentucky bourbon culture to London.
Flexible and Convenient: 45-minute session, easy to fit into your day.
Highly Rated: 4.8 out of 5 based on 13 reviews.
Knowledgeable Guides: Praised for their friendly, informative style.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect at Buffalo Trace Distillery in London

Walking into the Covent Garden venue, you’ll find yourself in a space designed to evoke the American bourbon vibe. The experience is led by a live guide, who will take you through the stories behind Buffalo Trace and its renowned line of whiskeys. The setting is intentionally cozy and accessible, making it an easy introduction for anyone new to bourbon.

As the session begins, you’ll first learn about Buffalo Trace’s history, its heritage, and what makes their spirits unique. The guides are often praised for their friendly and relaxed manner, making the experience feel like a conversation among friends rather than a formal lecture. This approach helps demystify bourbon and makes the tasting approachable.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in London.

The Tasting Itself

The core of the experience is a guided tasting of three expressions from Buffalo Trace’s main lineup. Expect to sample Buffalo Trace Bourbon, known for its smooth, sweet profile with hints of vanilla and caramel; Sazerac Rye, which offers a spicier, more robust flavor; and a cream-based bourbon, adding a sweet, dessert-like element to the tasting. Plus, you’ll be offered a Bourbon and Ginger pour, which adds a refreshing twist and shows how bourbon can be versatile.

Guests often highlight the quality and clarity of the pours. One reviewer mentioned, “The room for the experience is great, and Nas our host was so informative, but at the same time relaxed and real.” This demonstrates the value of having a guide who can share insights while keeping the mood light.

Why It Works

The 45-minute duration ensures you get a taste of bourbon culture without a hefty time commitment. It’s ideal for visitors who want a quick but meaningful experience. The small group size up to 20 people means everyone gets attention, questions are encouraged, and the atmosphere feels intimate.

Accessibility and Practical Info

The London location is wheelchair accessible, and the check-in process is straightforward—you just need to check in at the front desk upon arrival. The activity ends back at the starting point, so it’s easy to plan your day around it. Bring a valid passport or ID card, as proof of age is required.

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The Value for Money

At just under $27, this tasting offers good value, especially considering the quality of the spirits and the expertise of the guide. As one reviewer noted, “We had the place and guide to bourbon all to ourselves,” which enhances the overall value and comfort of the experience.

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The Reviews Tell the Story

Authenticity is a recurring theme in reviews. One guest said, “It was incredible, we liked it so much,” praising the host Martin for his engaging style. Another added, “Very friendly guide, very informative,” highlighting the approachable, educational nature of the session. Even those who are new to bourbon find the tasting accessible, with one reviewer calling it “a lovely little bourbon experience in the heart of London.”

Some visitors appreciate the location’s convenience, being close to underground stations and central Covent Garden, making it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing or shopping.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour benefits bottle collectors, bourbon curious travelers, couples seeking a unique date activity, or small groups wanting a fun, educational outing. It’s not suited for children under 18, but for adults eager to learn more about bourbon or sample some quality spirits, it hits the mark.

The Buffalo Trace Distillery Whiskey Tasting in London offers a friendly, accessible introduction to bourbon culture. The combination of quality spirits, expert guides, and a cozy atmosphere makes it a worthwhile activity for those interested in spirits or looking for a distinctive London experience. Its affordability and positive reviews make it an attractive option, especially if you prefer a small-group, relaxed setting over large, commercial tastings.

While it doesn’t replace a full distillery tour, it delivers on the essentials—great whiskey, engaging storytelling, and an authentic vibe. Whether you’re a bourbon novice or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll leave with a better appreciation for Buffalo Trace’s craftsmanship and a few good stories to tell.

This tasting is best suited for visitors who want a quick, genuine taste of bourbon, and it’s particularly appealing for those close to Covent Garden or looking for a memorable activity that’s both fun and educational.

Is this experience suitable for children or under 18s?
No, the activity is only for adults over 18, as proof of age with a passport or ID card is required.

How long does the whiskey tasting last?
The tasting lasts about 45 minutes, making it a quick but substantial experience.

Is the location accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy it comfortably.

Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you the flexibility to confirm your plans without immediate payment.

What should I bring for the experience?
Bring a valid passport or ID card for age verification, but no other special items are necessary.

In summary, the Buffalo Trace whiskey tasting offers a well-priced, authentic glimpse into bourbon culture within London’s lively Covent Garden area. Small-group and relaxed guides make for an engaging visit, perfect for anyone interested in spirits, socializing, or simply trying something different in the city.