Review of Buffalo Trace Prohibition: Spiritis Frumenti, 110 Proof
Introduction: A Whiskey Inspired by a Defiant Era
Buffalo Trace Distillery, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in American whiskey, has earned its place as a legendary institution in the bourbon world. Among their various experimental and limited-edition offerings is a unique expression that harks back to one of the most tumultuous periods in American history: Prohibition. The Buffalo Trace Prohibition: Spiritis Frumenti (Latin for “Spirit of Grain”) is a whiskey that captures the essence of this defiant era when distilling and distributing spirits were officially illegal. Bottled at 110 proof, this expression is designed to evoke the rugged, unfiltered character of whiskeys that were clandestinely produced and savored during those trying times.
This whiskey is more than just a nod to history; it’s a well-crafted expression that brings forth robust flavors and an authentic experience that both seasoned enthusiasts and history buffs will appreciate. In this review, we’ll explore what makes the Buffalo Trace Prohibition: Spiritis Frumenti stand out, from its bold proof to its layered complexity.
The Concept: A Tribute to Prohibition-Era Whiskey
The Spiritis Frumenti expression from Buffalo Trace is meant to evoke the kind of whiskey that might have been enjoyed in speakeasies or back-alley gatherings during Prohibition. The 110 proof level is a nod to the high-proof spirits often favored during that time, when whiskey was valued for its potency as much as its flavor. This expression uses a classic Buffalo Trace mash bill, with a blend of corn, rye, and malted barley, but the aging, proof, and profile have been carefully crafted to give it a rough-around-the-edges appeal reminiscent of the Prohibition era.
By embracing this theme, Buffalo Trace has created a whiskey that’s not only rich in flavor but also in storytelling. The rugged character, unfiltered nature, and bold strength of Spiritis Frumenti make it a unique addition to the Buffalo Trace lineup. Let’s dive into the details and explore how this concept is reflected in the whiskey’s appearance, nose, palate, and finish.
Appearance: A Rich Amber with a Hint of Rebellion
In the glass, Spiritis Frumenti displays a deep amber hue, reflective of its time aging in charred oak barrels. There’s a rustic, almost old-world appeal to its appearance, with golden highlights catching the light in a way that’s both inviting and reminiscent of whiskey from a bygone era. Swirling the glass reveals thick, slow-moving legs, indicating a full-bodied, high-proof whiskey that promises intensity and depth.
On the Nose: Bold, Spicy, and Packed with Character
The nose of Spiritis Frumenti is where the Prohibition-era inspiration begins to shine through. From the first sniff, you’re greeted with a potent wave of spice—black pepper, cinnamon, and clove dominate the aroma, giving it a punchy and assertive quality. This bold spice is quickly followed by more traditional bourbon notes, including caramel, vanilla, and dark molasses, all enhanced by the higher proof.
As the whiskey opens up, deeper layers begin to emerge. There’s a subtle smokiness, perhaps a nod to the less refined methods of distillation common during Prohibition, alongside hints of oak, leather, and tobacco. These darker, earthier notes give the whiskey a rugged, almost untamed character that’s fitting for its historical inspiration. There’s also a faint touch of dried fruit, like raisins and figs, adding a layer of sweetness that balances out the spice and oak.
The nose is complex, but not overly refined, which is exactly the point. It’s bold, rich, and unapologetically intense—much like the whiskey drinkers who would have sought out these flavors in defiance of Prohibition.
The Palate: A Journey Through Spice, Sweetness, and Oak
The first sip of Spiritis Frumenti is a powerful experience, as expected from a 110 proof whiskey. The warmth is immediate, enveloping the palate in a wave of spice and heat. The rye in the mash bill makes its presence known with peppery notes that tingle the tongue, while the cinnamon and clove carry through from the nose, providing a lively kick.
But there’s more to this whiskey than just spice. As the initial heat subsides, the sweetness of the corn comes into play, bringing flavors of caramelized sugar, dark toffee, and vanilla. These sweeter notes are rich and dense, giving the whiskey a luxurious quality that contrasts beautifully with its fiery spice. As the whiskey evolves on the palate, oak and charred wood flavors take center stage, accompanied by a touch of smoke that adds a rustic edge.
One of the standout characteristics of Spiritis Frumenti is its balance. Despite the high proof, the flavors are well-integrated, allowing the spice, sweetness, and oak to play off each other in harmony. There’s also a nice viscosity to the mouthfeel, thanks to the whiskey being uncut and unfiltered. The natural oils give it a creamy texture that coats the palate, enhancing the richness of the flavors.
As the sip develops, hints of dark chocolate, roasted coffee, and even a touch of maple syrup add depth and complexity. The dried fruit notes detected on the nose make a reappearance here, contributing a subtle sweetness that lingers beneath the more dominant spice and oak. It’s a dynamic whiskey that evolves with each sip, revealing new layers of flavor as it opens up.
The Finish: Long, Warming, and Boldly Satisfying
The finish of Spiritis Frumenti is exactly what you’d hope for in a high-proof, Prohibition-inspired whiskey—it’s long, warming, and full of character. The spice remains front and center, with black pepper and clove carrying through to the end. However, as the finish unfolds, the oak and caramel notes take over, leaving a pleasant, lingering sweetness that tempers the spice.
There’s also a noticeable dryness on the finish, likely a result of the oak influence, which adds a touch of astringency that balances out the richness of the palate. Hints of tobacco, leather, and a faint smokiness add a savory quality that keeps the finish interesting long after the whiskey has been swallowed. The warmth lingers, reminding you of the whiskey’s bold proof, but it’s never overwhelming—instead, it’s a comforting heat that invites you to take another sip.
Conclusion: A Bold Tribute to a Resilient Era
Buffalo Trace Prohibition: Spiritis Frumenti is more than just a whiskey—it’s a time capsule that captures the rebellious spirit of the Prohibition era. The 110 proof, bold spice, and rugged character all contribute to a whiskey that feels authentic to its inspiration. It’s not overly polished or refined, but that’s precisely what makes it so appealing. It’s a whiskey for those who appreciate intensity, complexity, and a bit of history in their glass.
This expression is best enjoyed neat, allowing the full range of flavors to unfold as it warms in your hand. For those who find the 110 proof a bit too intense, a few drops of water can help tame the heat and open up the more nuanced notes. However, even at full strength, the whiskey remains surprisingly balanced and approachable for those who enjoy higher-proof spirits.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys a bold, full-flavored whiskey, Buffalo Trace Prohibition: Spiritis Frumenti offers a unique and satisfying experience. It’s a fitting tribute to the defiant era it represents, and a reminder that sometimes, the best whiskey is the kind that refuses to be tamed.
