The Ultimate Guide to Eagle Rare Bourbon Collection: A Deep Dive into Its Rich Legacy and Flavors
Eagle Rare Bourbon Collection, a name that resonates deeply within the world of whiskey enthusiasts, has been an iconic symbol of quality and craftsmanship for decades. Produced by the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery, this bourbon has carved out a special place for itself in the hearts of collectors and casual drinkers alike. Whether you’re just discovering this rich spirit or are already a connoisseur, this guide will provide an in-depth exploration of the Eagle Rare Bourbon collection, including its variations, tasting notes, price points, and where you can find it. Let’s embark on a journey through the world of Eagle Rare Whiskey.
What Is Eagle Rare Bourbon?
Eagle Rare Bourbon is a premium Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey crafted by Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. Known for its rich flavor, complex profile, and smooth finish, Eagle Rare is an exceptional representation of what bourbon should be. The name itself is a nod to the American bald eagle, a symbol of strength and freedom, reflecting the bold yet refined nature of the whiskey.
The Production Process
The production process behind Eagle Rare Bourbon is as meticulous as the spirit itself. Made with a blend of corn, rye, and malted barley, Eagle Rare is aged in oak barrels for an extended period, with each barrel imparting its unique flavor characteristics. While the exact aging process is a closely guarded secret, the bourbon undergoes a rigorous selection process to ensure that only the finest barrels are used for bottling.
The bourbon is aged in Buffalo Trace’s climate-controlled warehouses, where the hot Kentucky summers and cold winters create the perfect conditions for the maturation process. During aging, the whiskey draws in flavors from the oak barrels, acquiring deep caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak notes. Over time, the bourbon becomes smoother and more complex, creating a rich flavor profile that has earned it numerous accolades.
The Eagle Rare Bourbon Collection
The Eagle Rare Bourbon collection includes several different expressions, each offering its own unique flavor profile and aging process. Whether you’re looking for a classic 10-year-old expression or a rare 25-year-old limited edition, Eagle Rare offers something for every whiskey enthusiast.
Eagle Rare 10-Year-Old Bourbon
One of the most well-known expressions in the Eagle Rare lineup is the Eagle Rare 10-Year-Old Bourbon. Aged for a full decade, this whiskey is a perfect balance of boldness and smoothness. With a rich amber color, the 10-Year-Old Bourbon offers aromas of toffee, orange peel, honey, leather, and oak. The taste profile is rich and smooth, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and a subtle spice that lingers on the palate. The finish is long and satisfying, with a slight dryness and a touch of oak.
The Eagle Rare 10-Year-Old Bourbon is a beloved expression for those who enjoy a smooth, flavorful bourbon with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. It’s a great choice for sipping neat or enjoying in a cocktail, such as an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon
Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon is part of the esteemed Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, which is known for its rare and limited-edition releases. As the name suggests, this expression is aged for 17 years, resulting in a more complex and refined flavor profile. The Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon offers deep, dark fruit notes, including blackberries and cherries, along with hints of cinnamon, tobacco, and leather.
This expression is bottled at 101 proof, making it a bold choice for whiskey aficionados who enjoy a higher-proof bourbon. The finish is dry and tannic, with lingering oak and spice notes. The rarity and age of this bourbon make it a prized possession for collectors, and it’s often difficult to find on store shelves due to limited availability.
Eagle Rare 25-Year-Old Bourbon
For those looking for the ultimate in rarity and sophistication, Eagle Rare 25-Year-Old Bourbon is a true gem. Aged for a quarter-century, this expression is one of the oldest bourbons available and is released in extremely limited quantities. The 25-Year-Old Bourbon boasts a rich, full-bodied flavor with notes of deep caramel, dark chocolate, and leather, along with a touch of oak and spice. The extended aging process creates a smooth, velvety texture that coats the palate and offers a complex, luxurious finish.
The Eagle Rare 25-Year-Old Bourbon is a highly coveted bottle, and its scarcity makes it a must-have for serious collectors. Due to its rarity, it can be found only through special releases, auctions, or select retailers.
Double Eagle Very Rare Bourbon
Another rare release from the Buffalo Trace Distillery is the Double Eagle Very Rare Bourbon. This expression is aged for over 20 years and has become known for its extraordinary smoothness and complexity. The Double Eagle Very Rare Bourbon is characterized by its rich, syrupy texture and deep flavors of honey, brown sugar, and oak. It also has an interesting twist: the bottle is presented in a custom-crafted, hand-blown decanter with gold accents, making it a true collector’s item.
This limited-edition release is available only in select markets and is considered one of the finest bourbons in the world. It’s perfect for sipping on special occasions or as a showpiece for any bourbon collection.
Eagle Rare Bourbon Price: What to Expect
The price of Eagle Rare Bourbon varies significantly depending on the expression and where you purchase it. The most common expression, the Eagle Rare 10-Year-Old Bourbon, typically retails for around $40-$50 for a 750ml bottle. However, due to its popularity, prices can fluctuate depending on demand and availability.
Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon Price
The Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon is a rare and limited-edition release, and as such, its price can vary greatly. On average, expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $250 for a bottle, though prices can sometimes exceed this range in certain markets. Since this bourbon is part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, it’s often available only during special releases or at select retailers.
Eagle Rare 25-Year-Old Bourbon Price
The Eagle Rare 25-Year-Old Bourbon is the rarest and most expensive expression in the collection. Due to its limited availability and age, the price for a bottle can range from $1,000 to $3,000 or more, depending on where you purchase it. Because it is released in such small quantities, it’s often sold at auction or through private sellers.
Eagle Rare 10-Year-Old Bourbon Price
As one of the most accessible bottles in the collection, the Eagle Rare 10-Year-Old Bourbon offers an excellent balance of quality and price. Typically, it can be found for around $40 to $50 per 750ml bottle. However, due to its growing popularity, some retailers may price it higher or offer limited-time promotions.
Finding Eagle Rare Bourbon Nearby
If you’re looking to purchase Eagle Rare Bourbon nearby, your best bet is to check with local liquor stores or specialty retailers that carry premium bourbons. Keep in mind that due to the popularity and limited supply of Eagle Rare, it may not always be readily available.
Some online retailers also offer the option to purchase Eagle Rare Bourbon and have it shipped directly to your location. Websites such as Total Wine, Drizly, and Caskers often carry various expressions of Eagle Rare, though availability may vary by region. If you’re having trouble finding a bottle, you can also check with local whiskey clubs or bourbon enthusiasts who may be able to point you in the right direction.
For those who want to find the best prices and availability for Eagle Rare Bourbon, be sure to visit Bourbon Haven, where you can explore the latest offerings and take advantage of great deals on this exceptional whiskey.
Where to Buy Eagle Rare Bourbon Online
If you’re having trouble finding Eagle Rare Bourbon at a local store, purchasing online is a viable option. Many online liquor retailers offer shipping services for whiskey, and some even specialize in rare and limited-edition bottles. Some reputable online stores to check include:
- Drizly: Known for its fast delivery service, Drizly offers a selection of Eagle Rare Bourbon, including the 10-Year-Old and 17-Year-Old expressions.
- Caskers: Caskers specializes in premium and rare spirits and often carries a variety of Eagle Rare expressions.
- Total Wine: With a wide selection of bourbons, Total Wine frequently stocks Eagle Rare, though availability can vary by location.
- Bourbon Haven: Visit Bourbon Haven for a great selection of Eagle Rare Bourbon and more, all available for online purchase.
Tasting Notes: What to Expect from Eagle Rare Bourbon
Eagle Rare Bourbon is renowned for its smooth, complex flavor profiles that evolve over time. Here’s a breakdown of the tasting notes you can expect from each expression in the collection:
Eagle Rare 10-Year-Old Bourbon
- Nose: Toffee, vanilla, orange peel, honey, leather, and oak.
- Palate: Candied almonds, caramel, brown sugar, with hints of dried fruit and oak.
- Finish: Dry, slightly spicy, with lingering notes of vanilla and caramel.
Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon
- Nose: Dark fruit (blackberry, cherry), leather, tobacco, cinnamon, and oak.
- Palate: Rich and complex with flavors of dark chocolate, tobacco, and spices.
- Finish: Dry, with a lasting warmth and oak notes.
Eagle Rare 25-Year-Old Bourbon
- Nose: Deep caramel, dark chocolate, oak, and leather.
- Palate: Rich, velvety mouthfeel with flavors of honey, brown sugar, and oak.
- Finish: Smooth, with lingering notes of chocolate, vanilla, and spice.
Conclusion: Why Eagle Rare Bourbon Should Be in Your Collection
Eagle Rare Bourbon is a true testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of the Buffalo Trace Distillery. Whether you’re a casual whiskey drinker or a seasoned collector, this bourbon offers something for everyone. From the smooth, balanced 10-Year-Old Bourbon to the rare and complex 25-Year-Old expression, the Eagle Rare collection showcases the very best that bourbon has to offer.
Its rich flavor profiles, smooth finishes, and limited availability make Eagle Rare Bourbon a must-have for any enthusiast. If you’re fortunate enough to find a bottle near you or online, consider adding it to your collection. With its storied history and exceptional quality, Eagle Rare Bourbon is a true American treasure. For the latest stock and best deals, make sure to visit Bourbon Haven for your next purchase!
