Why is Buffalo Trace So Hard to Find? (And Should You Buy It?)

If you’ve ever walked into a liquor store and found yourself asking, “Why is Buffalo Trace hard to find?” you’re not alone. As one of the most well-regarded bourbons on the market, Buffalo Trace’s availability can often be a bit of a mystery. Whether you’re a beginner to whiskey or a seasoned aficionado, understanding why this bourbon can sometimes be elusive is key to deciding if you should snatch up a bottle when you see it. In this post, we’ll dive into the factors contributing to Buffalo Trace’s scarcity, its price, and whether or not you should buy it.

1. Buffalo Trace’s Popularity and Demand

Buffalo Trace Bourbon has gained a massive following, not just because of its quality but also because of the buzz surrounding the Buffalo Trace Distillery itself. From enthusiasts to casual drinkers, many consider Buffalo Trace to be a quintessential example of what makes bourbon great: smooth, flavorful, and affordable.

Why the Buzz?

The popularity of Buffalo Trace has skyrocketed in recent years. It’s an entry-level bourbon with just the right balance of quality and price, making it a go-to for newcomers. However, with popularity comes increased demand, and this is one of the primary reasons why Buffalo Trace can be difficult to find at times.

Many whiskey drinkers—especially newer ones—are drawn to its approachable profile and relatively modest price, making it a staple on shelves. As more people enter the whiskey world, the demand for Buffalo Trace grows. This is particularly true when special editions, like the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection or Stagg Jr., gain attention. The distillery’s association with highly collectible products only adds to the hype, sometimes causing a shortage of the regular Buffalo Trace Bourbon.

2. Limited Distribution and Regional Variability

One of the key factors that contribute to the difficulty in finding Buffalo Trace is the variability of its distribution. Depending on where you live, Buffalo Trace may be readily available or nearly impossible to find.

U.S. Distribution Challenges

Distribution networks can be inconsistent, even within the U.S. While some states might have plenty of stock in liquor stores, others face restrictions due to state laws and quotas. For example, a store in Colorado might have dozens of bottles on the shelf, while a store in Virginia could be perpetually out of stock. This regional inconsistency is one of the reasons why some whiskey lovers perceive Buffalo Trace as a rare find.

International Availability

Interestingly, Buffalo Trace might be easier to find in certain countries outside the U.S., such as Sweden, where the distribution of American bourbon is more stable. This further highlights the role that local demand and distribution systems play in the availability of Buffalo Trace.

3. Buffalo Trace Mania and Market Hype

Another layer to the scarcity of Buffalo Trace lies in the growing phenomenon of “whiskey mania.” As more people become obsessed with collecting limited-edition releases and chasing after specific brands, the demand for Buffalo Trace—especially at the retail level—can increase dramatically.

The Hype Factor

As a popular distillery, Buffalo Trace has become a target for bourbon enthusiasts and casual collectors alike. Many will jump at the chance to buy a bottle when they see it, fearing that they won’t find it again. This has led to a sort of “Buffalo Trace mania,” where people buy up bottles simply because they can, not necessarily because they need it. Unfortunately, this can make Buffalo Trace harder to find for the everyday consumer, especially in areas where the demand is particularly high.

Secondary Market Pricing

In some cases, people will even resell Buffalo Trace at inflated prices, adding to the perception that it is more scarce than it truly is. While the suggested retail price for Buffalo Trace is around $25–$35 per bottle, it’s not uncommon to see bottles being resold for much more, especially if they’re difficult to come by in your area. This price gouging further contributes to the myth of its scarcity.

4. Should You Buy Buffalo Trace?

If you’ve managed to find a bottle of Buffalo 🦬 Trace in your local store, the question remains: should you buy it?

Why It’s Worth Buying

For many bourbon drinkers, Buffalo Trace is an excellent value. It offers a balanced and smooth profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, making it a great sipping bourbon or one to mix in cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans. At its standard price range, it’s a fantastic introduction to the world of bourbon without breaking the bank.

When to Skip It

If you find Buffalo Trace being sold at an inflated price—especially if it’s well above $35 a bottle—you may want to reconsider. Paying significantly more than MSRP isn’t necessary, and in most cases, it’s not worth the hype. Given that Buffalo Trace is relatively easy to find in certain regions, it’s better to wait until it’s available at a fair price or explore other bourbons in the same price range.

5. The Bottom Line: Buffalo Trace Availability

To summarize, Buffalo Trace may be hard to find in certain regions, but it’s not due to an actual shortage—it’s mostly driven by hype, demand, and distribution variability. While the whiskey world has its share of limited releases and rare finds, Buffalo Trace generally remains a staple in the bourbon category. If you find it at a fair price, it’s definitely worth purchasing. However, avoid paying excessive premiums just to get your hands on a bottle. In most cases, patience is the key to securing a bottle without paying over-the-top prices.

Conclusion: Is Buffalo Trace Really That Hard to Find?

While Buffalo Trace can be harder to find in some areas, especially due to supply chain issues, regional distribution, and growing demand, it’s not an unattainable product. If you’re a bourbon newbie, it’s a fantastic choice that offers quality at an affordable price. Just make sure you’re not falling victim to the hype and paying more than it’s worth. If you spot a bottle on the shelf at MSRP, grab it—but don’t waste time hunting it down at inflated prices. In the end, Buffalo Trace is a great bourbon, but it doesn’t have to be the Holy Grail of whiskey.