When you’re among friends who also happen to be bourbon enthusiasts, you’ll likely hear them referencing the iconic OFC Bourbon. So, if you’re new to Bourbon or the craft spirit scene in general, you might wonder what OFC Bourbon is all about and why it’s so important. Keep reading as we uncover the mystique and appeal of Old Fashioned Copper Bourbon. Discover the history and relevance of its contribution to the bourbon stage. And then, get inspired to become a bourbon enthusiast yourself.

Where OFC Bourbon Began

The OFC Bourbon origins date back to 1870. It was then that E.H. Taylor Jr. started his brand-new distillery with the intention of being the most premier distiller of the finest bourbon of his time. He called it O.F.C., which was the acronym for “Old Fashioned Copper.” Additionally, the namesake represented his commitment to invest in only the finest copper for his distillery, including:

• Copper stills
• Copper piping
• Copper fermenters

Taylor believed it was the copper that made his Bourbon the purest he could produce. 

Changing Hands and Names

By 1929, the O.F.C. Distillery started expanding its operations due to the high demand for this ultra-smooth and highly desirable Bourbon. Modernization stepped in as the technology for distilling improved, and by the 1930s, it was a Kentucky legend of a facility. 

In 1992, the distillery sold again. And by 1999, the majestic bourbon distillery donned a new name – Buffalo Trace Distillery. Today, the Buffalo Trace master distillers continue to create OFC Vintage Bourbon, aged to perfection and embodying the essence of Taylor’s original tastes. It continues to be revered as some of the finest Bourbon available.

Today, Buffalo Trace Distillery is owned by the parent company, Sazerac Company, which is based in New Orleans. Moreover, Sazerac purchased the brand in 2009 and continues to produce the iconic E.H. Taylor Jr. brand of Bourbon out of the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky.

What Makes It Different?

Typically, straight bourbon whiskey is required to age within oak barrels for a minimum of two years. OFC bourbon, however, matures for much longer. Each vintage will vary, but the hand-cut crystal bottle of OFC Bourbon you buy today has been aging for 20+ years. 

Bourbon’s maturity over this multi-decades-long process requires dedicated distilling staff. And each barrel is evaluated periodically and tasted for peak flavor profiles. They are then extracted and bottled, labeled with the specific year in which the smooth Bourbon began distillation.

How does it taste?

Recipes vary, but most describe the tasting notes for this iconic Bourbon with a subtle aroma of a cordial cherry, with hints of oak and caramel. Others describe hues of tobacco leaves, dates, and even dark chocolate. Once consumed, your palate lingers with a brilliant bite of black pepper, cinnamon, and leather. 

Rare and Iconic Translates to Expensive

Because OFC Bourbon is so rare and ages for longer than some employees work at the distillery, it also comes with a hefty price tag. If you want to buy a 1995 Vintage OFC Bourbon today, it’s going to cost you around $2,500 per bottle. 

Buffalo Trace has only offered OFC Bourbon to the public four times, with the first releases launching in 2016. Rare vintages from 1980, 1982, and 1983 were also offered at auction, raising money for various charities, including:

• Children’s Rights
• Autism Research
• Cancer Services
• Cystic Fibrosis Funding
• Military Veterans Services
• Animal Protections
• Arts and Foundations
• And more.

Each bottle is a standard 90-proof. And as previously mentioned, it comes in a crystal decanter with ornate, copper lettering and a wooden display case. Only 1,500 bottles hit the shelves back in 2020. And if you missed this release, you may have to wait a few more years for another 20-25-year batch to be bottled and released. 

More About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery continues to be a historical landmark and American, family-owned facility in Frankfort, Kentucky. In addition to OFC Bourbon, Buffalo Trace produces legendary blends from:

• George T. Stagg
• Orville Schupp
• Albert B. Blanton
• Elmer T. Lee

It produces award-winning Bourbon, vodka, and rye whiskey. E.H. Taylor Jr.’s Four Grain Bourbon was also named World Whiskey of the Year in 2018. The distillery has won more than 20 distinctive distillery titles since 2000 alone. And continues to earn praise from notable publications such as:

• Wine Enthusiast Magazine
• Whisky Advocate Magazine
• Whisky Magazine

FAQs About Bourbon

Explore some of these most frequently asked bourbon questions to round out your knowledge of this classic American spirit.

Why are some bourbon varieties so expensive?

Some bourbon varieties are considered premier because of the exclusivity of their ingredients, time to age, and distilling process. Other price factors, including state liquor taxes, ad valorem taxes (KY,) and resources used from grain to glass, also play a role in pricing.

What’s the best way to enjoy Bourbon?

While you might prefer to enjoy your Bourbon as a cocktail, like an Old-Fashioned, most purists suggest it’s best to drink Bourbon neat to fully grasp its full flavor profile.

How is Bourbon distilled?

It’s most common for distillers to put their Bourbon blends through two distillation processes. During the first phase, the Bourbon goes through the column stills. For the second phase, the Bourbon distills in heated copper stills.

Why is Bourbon distilled twice?

It’s believed that the two-distillation process for Bourbon lends to its boosted alcohol content. It also removes any hint of remaining mash, along with other impurities that may impact the flavor of the final product.

Let Distillery Nearby Help You Create Craft Spirit Experiences

Now that you’re familiar with the legendary OFC Bourbon, you can enjoy its history with every rich and delightful sip – that is, if you decide to invest in buying your own bottle. Explore all kinds of historic craft spirits and find their nationwide distilleries right here with Distillery Nearby! Whether you’re a craft spirit novice or an established expert, we can help you plot your tour and sipping experiences, ticking off every legendary blend you might have on your bucket list. Start plotting your course and sip your way across the US, sampling every classic and modern twist of your favorite craft spirits.