Olivia Taylor
A Glance at the Bourbon World
In the world of spirits, bourbon holds a special place. Its rich, complex flavors and deep American heritage have made it a favorite among connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. There are countless brands and expressions out there, but few stand out as cleanly and profoundly as the Eagle Rare Bourbon by Buffalo Trace. It’s not just its excellent quality that turns heads, but also its notable price tag. Want to know why Eagle Rare bourbon is so expensive? Let’s dig in!
The Legacy of Buffalo Trace
Before we delve into the specifics of Eagle Rare, let’s first understand the producer behind this exquisite bourbon. Buffalo Trace is considered among America’s oldest continuously operating distilleries, with roots tracing back to 1787. Located in Kentucky, the bourbon heartland, Buffalo Trace boasts over 200 years of experience in making exquisite bourbon—experience that very much shows in their craftsmanship.
Distilling Talent Behind the Scenes
Beyond its legacy, Buffalo Trace cultivates a formidable talent pool that significantly contributes to the value of its bourbons. Among them stands Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley, known for his acclaimed innovations in the bourbon industry, including the iconic Eagle Rare.
The Journey of Eagle Rare Bourbon
Eagle Rare is a highly prized bourbon that typically comes in 10-Year-Old and 17-Year-Old expressions. Its premium positioning isn’t without reason: the bourbon’s intricate profile and exceptional quality owe much to Buffalo Trace’s meticulous production process.
Premium Ingredients and Distillation Process
Laying a grand foundation for Eagle Rare bourbon requires the highest-quality corn, rye, and malted barley, which are then subjected to Buffalo Trace’s unique distillation and fermentation process. The mixture is distilled at a lower proof than many bourbons, which keeps more of the base grain flavors intact, creating a distinct taste profile.
Time-Intensive Aging
In bourbon production, aging is a critical step that can heavily influence the flavor. Eagle Rare takes this to heart by aging their bourbon for far longer than most. Their standard 10-year expression has already surpassed the industry average, with the 17-year offering being a true rarity. The prolonged aging process allows the bourbon to develop unique flavor nuances while smoothing out any harsh notes.
Single Barrel Offering
Adding to its appeal, Eagle Rare is largely a single barrel bourbon. This means that each batch comes from one specific barrel instead of a mix. This approach results in unique bottle-to-bottle variations, making each drink a truly unique experience, and adding another layer of exclusivity to the brand.
Scare Availability, High Demand
A considerable factor driving Eagle Rare’s high price tag is the simple principle of supply and demand. There aren’t many bottles of Eagle Rare available, particularly the highly sought-after 17-Year-Old variant. It’s released only once a year as part of Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection, and fans scramble to get their hands on a bottle—with some even paying over the odds on secondary markets.
Eagle Rare: Price, Experience Worth Every Penny
All these factors—Buffalo Trace’s profound expertise, high-quality ingredients, meticulous production, lengthy aging, and the bourbon’s limited availability—combine to justify Eagle Rare’s price. While it might not be an everyday pour for the average person, for bourbon lovers seeking a distinct taste, exquisite complexity, and that touch of rarity, Eagle Rare is every penny well spent. As they say in the bourbon world, you’re not just buying a drink; you’re buying an experience. And Eagle Rare gives you a memorable one!
