Obits

Master Bourbon Distiller Elmer T. Lee Has Died

The bourbon maker was 93 years old.
The bourbon maker was 93 years old. Photo: Courtesy of Buffalo Trace

Fred Minnick reports that Kentucky native, World War II veteran, and legendary distiller Elmer T. Lee has died at the age of 93. Lee brought Blanton’s, which was the first single-barrel bourbon, to market in 1984. Though he retired in 1985, he became the ambassador and master distiller emeritus for Buffalo Trace, not to mention a constant presence and taste-tester at the distillery. Bourbon drinkers are being urged to “go to your liquor stores today and buy a bottle of Elmer T. Lee single barrel bourbon.” [Fred Minnick, Buffalo Trace]

Master Bourbon Distiller Elmer T. Lee Has Died