Buffalo Trace Distillery is back to business after historic flooding in April

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A 200-year-old Kentucky distillery is back to business as usual after being hit by historic floods in April.

Every one of the 100 buildings on the historic part of the distillery in Frankfort had some sort of water damage. There was nearly 3 feet of water inside the visitors center. The distillery is located along the Kentucky River, which rose 48 feet above normal, as reported by LEX 18.

Everything the water touched had to be cleaned, replaced or thrown away.

"It was jarring it definitely evoked an emotional response from everyone who has a connection here," Matt Higgins, guest experience director at the distillery, told LEX18 in Lexington. "I think we dwelled on it for maybe a day then we got back to work to make sure we could reopen quickly, and give back to the community that we love to serve."

Buffalo Trace is back to operating seven days of week for tours, tastings, and shopping at the gift shop.

The distillery is also planning to open a new cafe in spring 2026, offering sandwiches, salads and soups.

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