Eagle Rare Bourbon: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Eagle Rare Bourbon is a premium, 10-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey renowned for its smooth and complex flavor profile. Produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery, it has won numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its reputation as one of the most sought-after bourbons on the market. This comprehensive guide delves into the history, production process, tasting notes, and other essential aspects of Eagle Rare Bourbon, providing an in-depth understanding for bourbon enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

History of Eagle Rare Bourbon

The origins of Eagle Rare Bourbon can be traced back to the late 1960s when Elmer T. Lee, a master distiller at Buffalo Trace, discovered a neglected stock of aging bourbon. This bourbon had been aged for an unusually long time, and Lee recognized its exceptional quality. In 1975, it was introduced to the public as Eagle Rare 101 Proof Bourbon.

Over the years, Eagle Rare has undergone several changes, including a reduction in proof from 101 to 90, a modification of the mash bill, and a shift in its target market. Today, Eagle Rare remains a highly coveted bourbon, with demand far exceeding supply.

Production Process

Eagle Rare Bourbon is crafted from a mash bill consisting of 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley. This mash is fermented using Buffalo Trace's proprietary yeast strain, which imparts unique flavors and aromas. The fermented mash is then twice distilled in copper pot stills, a traditional method that contributes to Eagle Rare's smooth and well-balanced character.

After distillation, the spirit is aged for a minimum of 10 years in charred American oak barrels. This aging process allows the bourbon to develop its characteristic amber color, complex flavors, and smooth finish.

Tasting Notes

Eagle Rare Bourbon exhibits a beautiful amber hue with hints of mahogany. Its nose is characterized by a symphony of aromas, including caramel, vanilla, oak, leather, and a touch of citrus. On the palate, it offers a velvety mouthfeel, with flavors of sweet corn, toasted oak, ripe fruit, and a hint of spice. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a pleasant warmth and a subtle hint of smokiness.

Awards and Recognition

Eagle Rare Bourbon has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, a testament to its exceptional quality. Some of the most notable accolades include:

• Double Gold Medal at the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
• Gold Medal at the 2019 International Spirits Challenge
• 95 Points from the Tasting Panel Magazine
• 94 Points from the Wine Enthusiast Magazine

Variations

In addition to the standard 10-year-old Eagle Rare Bourbon, Buffalo Trace has released several limited-edition variations over the years, each offering a unique twist on the classic expression. These variations include:

• Eagle Rare 17 Year Old: Aged for 17 years, this variation offers an even deeper and more complex flavor profile.
• Eagle Rare 20 Year Old: Aged for 20 years, this rare and highly sought-after variation is a true collector's item.
• Eagle Rare 10 Year Old Single Barrel: This variation is bottled from a single barrel, resulting in a unique and distinctive flavor profile.

Availability and Pricing

Eagle Rare Bourbon is available in most liquor stores and online retailers. However, due to its high demand, it can be challenging to find at its suggested retail price of around $35 per 750ml bottle. The scarcity and popularity of Eagle Rare have led to a thriving secondary market, with prices often exceeding the suggested retail price.

Food Pairings

Eagle Rare Bourbon is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed in cocktails. It pairs well with a variety of foods, including:

• Grilled Meats: Eagle Rare's bold flavors and smoky finish complement grilled steaks, chops, and ribs.
• Aged Cheeses: The nutty and caramel-like notes of Eagle Rare pair harmoniously with aged cheeses such as cheddar, Parmesan, and Gouda.
• Dark Chocolate: The sweetness and bitterness of dark chocolate enhance the complexity of Eagle Rare's flavor profile.

Effective Strategies for Finding Eagle Rare Bourbon

Finding Eagle Rare Bourbon at its suggested retail price can be challenging. Here are a few effective strategies to increase your chances:

• Visit Local Liquor Stores: Check with your local liquor stores regularly, especially during off-peak hours or weekdays when there is less foot traffic.
• Join Email Lists: Sign up for email lists from liquor stores and distributors to receive notifications about new shipments.
• Use Social Media: Follow liquor stores and distilleries on social media to stay informed about upcoming releases and promotions.
• Attend Tastings: Attend bourbon tastings at liquor stores or bars to sample Eagle Rare and other bourbons.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overpaying: Avoid paying inflated prices for Eagle Rare on the secondary market. Be patient and diligent in your search, and you will eventually find it at a reasonable price.
• Drinking Too Quickly: Savor the flavors of Eagle Rare by sipping it slowly and appreciating its complexity.
• Mixing with Low-Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality mixers to complement Eagle Rare's premium taste. Cheap mixers can overwhelm its delicate flavors.

How to Enjoy Eagle Rare Bourbon

• Neat: Pour 2 ounces of Eagle Rare into a rocks glass and enjoy it at room temperature. This is the best way to experience its full flavor profile.
• On the Rocks: Add a few ice cubes to a rocks glass and pour in 2 ounces of Eagle Rare. The ice will slowly melt, diluting the bourbon slightly and revealing different flavors.
• Cocktails: Eagle Rare can be used in a variety of classic bourbon cocktails, such as the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Boulevardier.

Call to Action

Eagle Rare Bourbon is a truly exceptional bourbon that deserves a place in every bourbon lover's collection. With its smooth and complex flavor profile, versatility, and limited availability, it is a spirit to be savored and cherished. Whether you enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or mixed in a cocktail, Eagle Rare will undoubtedly provide an unforgettable tasting experience.

Table 1: Eagle Rare Bourbon Tasting Notes

Table 2: Eagle Rare Bourbon Awards and Recognition

Table 3: Eagle Rare Bourbon Food Pairings