Eagle Rare 10yr
Oh, Eagle Rare, you elusive amber nectar, whispered about in hushed tones in the most clandestine corners of bourbon forums and bar backrooms. It's as if the very mention of your name could cause a stampede of enthusiasts, glass in hand, ready to pledge their firstborn for just a sip. But hold your horses, dear reader, and let me regale you with the tale of this bourbon that's as rare as an honest politician but not quite as mythical as a unicorn (though you might find it on Unicorn Auction, more on that later).
Eagle Rare, the bourbon that decided to be more Eagle than chicken, was hatched in the bourbon-soaked landscapes of Kentucky by the Buffalo Trace Distillery. Its journey began in the late 1970s, a time when disco was dying, and people desperately needed something to drown their bell-bottomed sorrows in. Enter Eagle Rare, stage left, with its suave 10-year age statement and single-barrel bottle, looking like it just stepped out of a bourbon-scented time machine, ready to woo the palates of America.
Now, fast-forward through decades of bourbon booms and busts, Eagle Rare has managed to flutter above the fray, retaining its status as a must-have for any self-respecting bourbon lover's collection. Yes, it wears its age statement like a badge of honor, a testament to its patience in aging gracefully, much like your favorite leather jacket or that pair of jeans you swear looks better with every wash.
But what does this heralded spirit taste like, you wonder? Pour yourself a dram, and let's embark on a sensory journey. On the nose, Eagle Rare greets you with an inviting bouquet of toffee and dark fruit, with subtle whispers of oak and leather, much like being invited into a well-appointed, old library filled with secrets and stories. It's a scent that promises depth and complexity, much like the plot of your favorite novel, and it keeps you coming back for more.
Take a sip, and the plot thickens. The palate is immediately greeted with a symphony of flavors, starting with a rich vanilla and caramel reminiscent of that dessert you swear you'll only have a bite of but end up devouring. As it unfolds, hints of cherries and almonds dance on your tongue, intermingling with the warmth of oak and a touch of spice that sparks curiosity without overwhelming. It's smooth, with a complexity that unfolds slowly, revealing layers of flavor that reward the patient and attentive.
Much like the end of a great novel or the finale of a fireworks show, the finish leaves you with a lingering sense of satisfaction and a warm, spicy embrace that trails off gently, leaving hints of vanilla and smoky oak that entice you to revisit the experience. It's a well-rounded conclusion to a journey that's both familiar and excitingly new, much like finding a hidden path in your favorite woods.
Now, back to the quest of acquiring this treasure. Sure, it may be allocated in your area, treated like a VIP in the bourbon world, behind velvet ropes and under lock and key. Yet, fear not, for this bourbon is more accessible than that high shelf you can't reach without a step stool. That's right, with a little bit of bourbon networking, a sprinkle of luck, and perhaps a visit to some website or auction sites like the aforementioned Unicorn Auction, you, too, can have the pleasure of calling Eagle Rare your own. And maybe, just maybe, you got enough bottles. This may be your daily pour!
So, you might be asking, "How do I get my hands on this amber elixir?" Well, dear reader, start by making friends in the bourbon community, those kind souls who speak in hushed tones about allocations and releases. These folks might just help you secure a bottle or point you toward a website or auction where Eagle Rare spreads its wings.
Remember, persistence is key in the hunt for Eagle Rare. It might not be as easy to find as your average bottle, but when you do finally get your hands on it, the victory is that much sweeter. It's like winning the bourbon lottery, but instead of cash, you're rewarded with liquid gold.
So, here's to Eagle Rare, the bourbon that is hard to get but is oh-so-worth the chase. May your glasses be full and your hunts be successful. Cheers!
Cheers to a dram good time! 🥃✨
The Details:
Proof: 90 • Mashbill: Undisclosed (Buffalo Trace Mashbill #1) • Aged: 10yrs • Price: $45
Brown Water Rating Scale:
Nose: 4 • Palate: 5 • Finish: 5 • Uniqueness: 3 • Value: 5 • Overall: 4.4
This is a 5-point scale based on my own preferences. This was also tested by my father-in-law, another whiskey lover. 