Eagle Rare 17-Year Bourbon Review: A Premium American Whiskey Experience
Eagle Rare 17-Year is a highly sought-after bourbon from Buffalo Trace Distillery, a prominent name in the world of American whiskey. As part of the prestigious Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, Eagle Rare 17-Year is renowned for its rich complexity, robust flavor profile, and exceptional craftsmanship. Bottled at 101 proof and priced around $125.00, this bourbon appeals to both seasoned enthusiasts and collectors alike.
In this review, we’ll explore the history of the Eagle Rare brand, analyze its flavor profile, discuss the advantages and disadvantages, and touch on potential side effects.
Brand History: Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace Distillery
Eagle Rare was first introduced in 1975 by Seagram’s, conceptualized as a tribute to the spirit of American freedom and independence. The brand’s original expression was a 10-year-old bourbon, which later became part of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s portfolio in 1992.
Buffalo Trace, headquartered in Frankfort, Kentucky, has a rich history that spans over 200 years. It is celebrated for producing high-quality whiskeys and is home to other iconic brands such as Pappy Van Winkle, Blanton’s, and W.L. Weller.
Eagle Rare has earned numerous accolades over the years, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier bourbon. The 17-Year expression is particularly revered for its extended aging process, which imparts unparalleled depth and complexity.
Tasting Notes
Eagle Rare 17-Year offers a refined drinking experience that showcases the mastery of traditional bourbon-making techniques. Here’s an in-depth look at its flavor profile:
Nose
The aroma is rich and inviting, with an initial burst of caramel, toffee, and aged oak. Notes of dark fruit, such as dried cherries and figs, intertwine with hints of leather, tobacco, and a touch of vanilla.
Palate
On the palate, the bourbon unfolds with layers of complexity. Bold flavors of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and dried fruit dominate, followed by subtler notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. The oak influence is evident but well-balanced, offering a hint of smokiness without overpowering the other flavors.
Finish
The finish is long and warm, leaving a pleasant aftertaste of toasted oak, dark honey, and spice. It lingers gracefully, inviting another sip.
Advantages of Eagle Rare 17-Year
- Exceptional Aging Process: The 17-year aging process allows the bourbon to develop a deep and complex flavor profile. The extended time in the barrel enhances its character, making it a standout among premium bourbons.
- Smooth and Balanced: Despite its high proof, Eagle Rare 17-Year offers a smooth and balanced drinking experience. The flavors are well-integrated, and the heat is minimal, making it approachable for both casual and seasoned bourbon drinkers.
- Heritage and Craftsmanship: Buffalo Trace’s expertise in bourbon production ensures a consistent, high-quality product. The distillery’s reputation and the limited nature of the Antique Collection add to the allure of this expression.
- Collector’s Appeal: As part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, Eagle Rare 17-Year is a coveted addition to any whiskey enthusiast’s collection. Its limited availability and high demand make it a prized possession.
- Versatile Enjoyment: While it is best savored neat to appreciate its full complexity, this bourbon can also be enjoyed with a splash of water or over a large ice cube to open up its flavors.
Disadvantages of Eagle Rare 17-Year
- Limited Availability: The exclusivity of Eagle Rare 17-Year makes it difficult to find. Bottles are often allocated, leading to higher secondary market prices that can far exceed its $125 retail price.
- High Price Point: While the retail price is reasonable for a premium bourbon, the scarcity often drives up costs, making it less accessible to some enthusiasts.
- Heavy Oak Influence: For those who prefer lighter, sweeter bourbons, the pronounced oakiness of this expression may be overwhelming.
Potential Side Effects of Consuming Bourbon
While Eagle Rare 17-Year is crafted for enjoyment, it’s important to remember that alcohol consumption comes with potential side effects:
- Short-Term Effects:
- Impaired judgment and coordination.
- Drowsiness or fatigue if consumed in excess.
- Long-Term Effects:
- Regular excessive consumption can lead to liver damage, addiction, or other health complications.
- Allergic Reactions: Rarely, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to ingredients in bourbon, such as grains or barrel compounds.
As with any alcoholic beverage, moderation is key to enjoying Eagle Rare 17-Year responsibly.
Comparison to Other Premium Bourbons
When evaluating Eagle Rare 17-Year, it’s helpful to compare it to other premium bourbons in the same category:
- Pappy Van Winkle 15-Year: Known for its sweetness and velvety texture, Pappy offers a contrasting flavor profile with less oak influence.
- Blanton’s Gold Edition: While not as aged, Blanton’s Gold delivers a fruit-forward and spicy experience.
- George T. Stagg: Another Buffalo Trace Antique Collection member, this high-proof bourbon is bold and intense, appealing to those who enjoy robust flavors.
Each bourbon has its unique strengths, but Eagle Rare 17-Year stands out for its elegance and balance.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Pairing Eagle Rare 17-Year with complementary foods enhances the tasting experience:
- Dark Chocolate: The bourbon’s notes of cocoa and dried fruit pair beautifully with high-quality dark chocolate.
- Aged Cheese: Rich, aged cheeses like Gouda or blue cheese balance the bourbon’s oaky undertones.
- Grilled Meats: The smoky, caramelized flavors of grilled steak or pork ribs complement the bourbon’s depth.
- Desserts: Desserts like pecan pie or crème brûlée highlight the whiskey’s sweet and nutty notes.
Final Thoughts
Eagle Rare 17-Year is a testament to the art of bourbon-making, offering a sophisticated drinking experience that reflects the legacy of Buffalo Trace Distillery. From its intricate flavor profile to its collector’s appeal, this bourbon is a standout in the world of American whiskey.
Whether you’re an experienced connoisseur or new to premium bourbons, Eagle Rare 17-Year is a worthy addition to your collection. However, its limited availability and rising secondary market prices make it a challenging find.
For those fortunate enough to secure a bottle, savoring Eagle Rare 17-Year neat is the best way to appreciate its craftsmanship and complexity. With its rich history, exceptional quality, and refined taste, this bourbon is a shining example of why Kentucky remains the heart of the American whiskey tradition.
