A popular, nationally-known distillery with local roots is also feeling the harsh realities of after-storm damage.
Buffalo Trace, a whiskey and bourbon distillery in Frankfort, tells FOX 17 News the steps they plan to take to fix the excessive flood damage they have been experiencing.
“Because Buffalo Trace Distillery has survived in its location on the Kentucky River for over 200 years, we have, unfortunately, experience in flood management and recovery," said Jake Wenz, Sazerac & Buffalo Trace Distillery CEO and President. "We initiated a preparation flood plan ahead of the surge. We were able to implement that plan late last week and are hopeful in doing so we will have mediated at least some of the damage. That said, we do expect the impact to be extensive and the recovery efforts to be significant and ongoing for some time."
According to flood reports from NWS, the Kentucky River crested at 48.2 feet on Monday. The highest river crest on record for the Frankfort Lock is currently 48.47 feet from a record set back in 1978.
Buffalo Trace Distillery plans to begin assessing the overall damage starting Tuesday, the flood waters were too high for any prior inspection. It plans to stay closed through Thurs. April 10 at minimum.
“Our hearts are with the rest of the community that has also been impacted by this devastation. Buffalo Trace Distillery will support relief efforts in the coming weeks to help Frankfort residents through this difficult time,” said Wenz. “We also want to say a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated team members, consumers, city and county officials, and vendor partners who have offered an incredible amount of support during this time. And finally, please accept our regrets to our fans that planned visits to the Distillery this week.”
