Are you searching for a bourbon that stands out among the finest aged whiskeys? Eagle Rare 17 is more than just a drink—it’s a collector’s item and a symbol of prestige in the bourbon world. With its deep history, limited availability, and rich flavors, this rare whiskey has gained a cult following among enthusiasts.
But what sets Eagle Rare 17 apart from other bourbons? Why is it so sought after, and is it worth the hype? In this article, we’ll dive into the origins, tasting notes, rarity, and everything else you need to know about Eagle Rare 17.
The Origins of Eagle Rare 17
A Legacy of Excellence
Eagle Rare was first introduced in the 1970s by Charles L. Beam, a renowned master distiller. Initially released as a 10-year-old bourbon, it quickly gained a reputation for its smooth yet complex profile.
In 2000, Buffalo Trace Distillery acquired the brand and elevated it to new heights, adding Eagle Rare 17 to the exclusive Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC). This annual release became one of the most anticipated drops in the bourbon industry, offering whiskey lovers an unparalleled experience.
Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC)
Eagle Rare 17 is part of the prestigious Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, which includes other legendary bourbons like:
- George T. Stagg
- William Larue Weller
- Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye
- Sazerac 18-Year-Old Rye
Each year, these highly allocated releases cause a frenzy among collectors and whiskey lovers, making them difficult to find and highly valued.
The Aging Process: A 17-Year-Old Bourbon Rarity
One of the key reasons Eagle Rare 17 is so exceptional is its aging process. While many bourbons are aged between 4 to 10 years, this expression spends 17 years in oak barrels, developing a depth of flavor that is hard to match.
During these years, the bourbon undergoes a transformation:
- The oak barrels impart rich caramel and vanilla notes.
- The long aging process enhances spiciness and toasted wood flavors.
- The evaporation process, also known as the “Angel’s Share,” concentrates the bourbon’s complexity.
The result? A whiskey that delivers a bold yet refined experience, making every sip memorable.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavors
Eagle Rare 17 is known for its extraordinary balance and depth. Here’s what you can expect when you take a sip:
Nose (Aroma)
- Deep notes of toasted oak, rich vanilla, and caramelized sugar.
- Hints of dark chocolate, dried fruit, and light spice.
Palate (Taste)
- A silky, full-bodied texture with layers of honey, butterscotch, and cinnamon.
- Dark cherry, tobacco, and warm baking spices add complexity.
- A perfect harmony of sweetness, spice, and oak influence.
Finish (Aftertaste)
- Long, warm, and lingering, with touches of dark cocoa and leather.
- A slight peppery kick at the end, making each sip last.
Why Is Eagle Rare 17 So Hard to Find?
If you’ve ever searched for Eagle Rare 17, you know how difficult it is to get your hands on a bottle. There are several reasons for its rarity:
- Limited Production – Buffalo Trace only releases a small batch of Eagle Rare 17 each year as part of the BTAC.
- High Demand – Bourbon enthusiasts and collectors rush to buy it as soon as it’s released.
- Strict Allocations – Liquor stores and distributors receive only a handful of bottles, making retail availability scarce.
- Secondary Market Boom – Due to its popularity, bottles often resell for several times their original price.
If you want to score a bottle, your best bet is to enter lotteries, join whiskey clubs, or build relationships with local liquor stores.
How Much Does Eagle Rare 17 Cost?
The suggested retail price (SRP) for Eagle Rare 17 is around $99 to $150, but because of its rarity, the secondary market prices can skyrocket to over $2,000.
Here’s a breakdown of pricing:
- Retail Price: $99 – $150 (if you’re lucky enough to find it)
- Auction & Resale Price: $1,500 – $2,500 (depending on the release year)
If you’re considering investing in a bottle, be prepared to pay a premium unless you manage to buy it at retail price.
How to Enjoy Eagle Rare 17
A bourbon of this caliber deserves to be savored. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy Eagle Rare 17:
- Neat: To fully appreciate its complex flavors, sip it neat at room temperature.
- With a Few Drops of Water: A splash of water can open up new aromas and soften the alcohol bite.
- On the Rocks: If you prefer a slightly chilled experience, a single large ice cube works best.
- In a Glencairn Glass: This specialized whiskey glass enhances the aroma and tasting experience.
Avoid mixing Eagle Rare17 in cocktails—this bourbon is meant to be enjoyed in its purest form.
Conclusion:
If you are a bourbon connoisseur or collector, Eagle Rare 17 is undoubtedly worth pursuing. With its exceptional aging process, complex flavor profile, and extreme rarity, it stands out as one of the finest bourbons in the world.
Whether you’re lucky enough to find a bottle at retail or willing to pay the premium price, Eagle Rare 17 is a whiskey that deserves a place in any serious collection.
FAQs
1. What makes Eagle Rare17 different from Eagle Rare 10?
EagleRare17 is aged for 17 years and is part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, whereas EagleRare 10 is more widely available and aged for 10 years.
2. How often is Eagle Rare17 released?
Eagle Rare17 is released once a year as part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection.
3. Where can I buy Eagle Rare17?
It is available at select liquor stores, online retailers, and whiskey auctions, but it is often sold out quickly due to high demand.
4. What is the best way to drink Eagle Rare17?
Most bourbon enthusiasts recommend drinking it neat or with a few drops of water to fully enjoy its complexity.
5. Why is Eagle Rare17 so expensive?
The combination of limited production, high demand, and aging process makes it a highly valuable and sought-after bourbon.