Last Updated on March 28, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare came from similar distilleries and used the same mash bill, but this is where their similarities end.
In this Buffalo Trace vs Eagle Rare review, we will check out the noticeable differences and key facts between the two bourbons to help you decide which one is better.
Buffalo Trace vs Eagle Rare In-Depth Comparison
Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace are two of the most prominent spirits in the bourbon market today, and both share a similar distillery-Buffalo Trace. Eagle rare has been around earlier than Buffalo Trace and is aged longer than the latter.
Buffalo Trace is known for being a flagship bourbon, and while they are both made by the world’s most award-winning distillery, their production process and tasting notes can be different.
In Buffalo Trace vs Eagle Rare, Eagle Rare is best served neat or with a splash of water, while Buffalo Trace can be served neat, on the rocks, and as a cocktail.
Flavor-wise, the bourbons are similarly sweet, but Buffalo Trace has more pepper, alcohol burn, and less oak. Eagle Rare 10-year-old has notes of stewed cherries, apples, berries, cocoa, oak flavors, and musty roasted wood that is best to enjoy neat.
Key Differences
History & Origin
Eagle Rare was introduced in 1975, while Buffalo Trace was released in 1999. Since Eagle Rare is older by 24 years, we can say that it has established a greater reputation. The Sazerac Company then acquired Eagle Rare from Seagram in March 1989.
On the other hand, Buffalo Trace was first released in 1999. It was named after the ancient buffalos that paved the way through the wilderness and led the American pioneers to explore new frontiers.
Being A Flagship Bourbon
Buffalo Trace is the distillery’s flagship bourbon, while Eagle Rare is not. Eagle Rare was introduced by a different distillery and was acquired as part of the Buffalo Trace’s best-known spirits.
Buffalo Trace is a great flagship brand, representing the entire line of quality bourbon. The mass appeal of the distillery helps the product be part of every whiskey shelf at home and in liquor stores.
Production & Distillation
Even though Buffalo Trace was released in 1999, the Buffalo Trace distillery has been known to produce the best bourbons since 1773.
The distillery has used the same recipe for over 200 years; every grain on its mash bill is cooked before undergoing fermentation in the tanks. It will be distilled twice and matured on the middle floors of the warehouse for the ideal temperature.
On the other hand, Eagle Rare Bourbon whiskey is skillfully crafted and aged for a minimum of ten years.
It was designed to contain 101 proof and was a single barrel bourbon until the brand changed the bottling system. The great bourbon lives up to its name and offers a distinctive taste experience.
Barrel Selection
Eagle Rare used to be a single barrel, but the company dropped the label because of the changes to bottling.
However, it was one of the mass-produced single barrel selections even though they may not be able to claim the rights due to the changes.
Eagle Rare’s previous barrel selection is a good opportunity for whiskey enthusiasts to dive into the American bourbon scene without spending a fortune.
Other good selections could be E.H Taylor Small Batch and Four Roses Small Batch, which offer different taste preferences on every barrel.
Read: Popular Bourbons Similar to Eagle Rare
Aging Process
Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey should be aged for at least two years in charred oak barrels [1]; however, both are aged longer. However, in Buffalo Trace vs Eagle Rare comparison, Eagle Rare is aged longer than Buffalo Trace.
Buffalo Trace does not disclose the age statement of their bourbon whiskey but it is allegedly matured for at least 8 to 10 years.
On the contrary, Eagle Rare 10-Year-Old is still labeled with an age statement, but you can find it at the back of the bottle.
As Mixer
Buffalo Trace bourbon and Eagle Rare can be great mixers, but most people gladly drink Buffalo Trace as cocktails than Eagle Rare.
Buffalo Trace has rich characteristics and is one of the affordable bourbons you should mix in cocktails. It has a consistent flavor and complex aroma ideal for cocktail recipes.
Read: Buffalo Trace Classic Old-Fashioned Recipe
Tasting Notes
Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- Palate: Toffee, brown sugar, vanilla, light rye spice, brighter fruits, espresso coffee, and chocolate
- Nose: Honey, vanilla, orange, and caramel with a balanced fragrance of oak, cinnamon, fine spices, and mint
- Color: Deep copper
- Finish: Moderate, oaky, hint of spice, vanilla
Eagle Rare Bourbon
- Palate: Candied almonds, dry, oaky flavors, rich cocoa, vanilla, slight fruit forward, baking spice, thick creamy body
- Nose: Aromas of toasted oak, toffee, orange peel, honey, maple syrup, caramel, leather, and oak
- Color: Golden honey color
- Finish: long, warm, dry, lingering with notes of tobacco, dark charred oak, and oak spice
Price Point & Value
Another main difference in Buffalo Trace vs Eagle Rare comparison is the price point and value. Eagle Rare is a surprisingly affordable bourbon for its quality and flavor, while Buffalo Trace has a greater value for the money.
Buffalo Trace has a full flavor, is well-balanced, drinkable, and priced right- whether for sipping or cocktails.
Eagle Rare, however, is more expensive than Buffalo Trace, but that is justifiable for its quality taste.
Even if the distillery removed the single barrel designation, it is a great value staple for the home bar and whiskey shelf at home, especially since Buffalo Trace is available in limited quantities.
Read: Eagle Rare vs Angel’s Envy Bourbon
How Are They Similar?
Owner
Eagle Rare 10 was owned by Seagram when it was acquired by the Sazerac Company in 1989 [2].
On a side note, Buffalo Trace is originally owned by the Sazerac company ever since it was first released. Both are Buffalo Trace products and share the same owner.
Distillery
Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare 10 Year share the same distillery-Buffalo Trace Distillery. It was previously known as George T. Stagg Distillery, located in Frankfort, Kentucky.
It is the same distiller of Sazerac rye, Pappy Van Winkle, OFC Vintages, and many more.
Mash Bills
Buffalo Trace whiskey and Eagle Rare 10 use similar grain bills on their spirits. It contains low rye (less than 10%), and it is widely used in different bourbons of Buffalo Trace.
Alcohol Content
Both straight bourbon whiskeys contain 45% ABV (90 Proof), but Buffalo Trace has more alcohol burn than Eagle Rare.
On the other hand, Eagle Rare was originally designed to contain 101 proof (50.5 % ABV).
The recipe changed over time, and the brand discontinued the 101 proof in 2005 and was marketed with 90 proof that we enjoy today.
Buffalo Trace & Eagle Rare Bourbon Common Prices
| Bourbon | Size | Alcohol Proof | Average Price |
| Buffalo Trace Bourbon | 375 ml | 90 | $19.25 |
| 750 ml | $34.99 | ||
| Eagle Rare 10 Year Bourbon | 750 ml | 90 | $49.99 |
| 1.75 L | $76.99 |
*Average prices are based on Drizly online. Prices may vary in local liquor shops.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How is Eagle Rare different than Buffalo Trace?
Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace are both bourbon whiskies produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery, but they have some key differences:
Age: Eagle Rare is aged for a minimum of 10 years, while Buffalo Trace typically ranges from 8 to 10 years old. This difference in aging contributes to variations in flavor and complexity between the two whiskies.
Mash Bill: While both Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace use Buffalo Trace Distillery’s low-rye mash bill (which contains less rye than traditional bourbon mash bills), Eagle Rare is often considered to have a slightly higher rye content compared to Buffalo Trace. This difference in mash bill can result in distinct flavor profiles between the two whiskies.
Flavor Profile: Eagle Rare is known for its rich and robust flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice. It tends to have a longer finish and more depth of flavor compared to Buffalo Trace, which is often described as smoother and lighter, with flavors of caramel, toffee, and citrus.
Bottling: Eagle Rare is typically bottled at a higher proof (90 proof or 45% alcohol by volume) compared to Buffalo Trace (which is bottled at 80 proof or 40% alcohol by volume). This difference in proof can influence the overall mouthfeel and intensity of flavors in each whisky.
Overall, while both Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace are high-quality bourbons produced by the same distillery, they offer distinct flavor profiles and characteristics that appeal to different preferences among whiskey enthusiasts.
Why is Eagle Rare so popular?
Eagle Rare has gained popularity among whiskey enthusiasts for several reasons:
Exceptional Quality: Eagle Rare is widely regarded as a premium bourbon whiskey known for its high quality and craftsmanship. It is aged for a minimum of 10 years, resulting in a well-aged and complex spirit with depth of flavor.
Unique Flavor Profile: Eagle Rare offers a rich and robust flavor profile, characterized by notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice. Its long finish and depth of flavor appeal to whiskey connoisseurs seeking a more complex drinking experience.
Accessibility: While Eagle Rare is considered a premium bourbon, it is relatively more accessible compared to other ultra-premium brands. Its availability and affordability make it an attractive option for both casual whiskey drinkers and collectors alike.
Awards and Recognition: Eagle Rare has received numerous awards and accolades from prestigious spirits competitions, further enhancing its reputation and popularity among whiskey enthusiasts.
Overall, Eagle Rare’s combination of exceptional quality, unique flavor profile, accessibility, and recognition within the whiskey community have contributed to its enduring popularity among consumers.
Does Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare have the same mash bill?
Yes, Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare both use Buffalo Trace Distillery’s low-rye mash bill, which is known for its relatively higher corn content and lower rye content compared to traditional bourbon mash bills.
However, while both whiskies share the same basic mash bill, there may be slight variations in the specific proportions of grains used in each recipe, resulting in subtle differences in flavor and character between Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare.
These variations in mash bill proportions contribute to the distinct profiles of each whiskey.
Who made Eagle Rare before Buffalo Trace?
Eagle Rare bourbon was originally produced by the Seagram Company, a large Canadian corporation with a significant presence in the distilled spirits industry. The bourbon was first introduced in the 1970s under the name “Eagle Rare 101,” and it gained a reputation for its high quality and exceptional flavor profile.
In 1989, the Buffalo Trace Distillery (formerly known as the George T. Stagg Distillery) acquired the rights to produce Eagle Rare bourbon, along with the rest of the assets of the Seagram Company’s distillery operations. Since then, Buffalo Trace has continued to produce and distribute Eagle Rare bourbon, maintaining its legacy of excellence and craftsmanship.
Why is Eagle Rare bourbon so expensive?
Several factors contribute to the relatively high price of Eagle Rare bourbon:
Aging Process: Eagle Rare bourbon is aged for a minimum of 10 years, which is longer than many other bourbons on the market. The extended aging process allows the whiskey to develop complex flavors and aromas, resulting in a premium product with a higher price tag.
Limited Availability: While Eagle Rare bourbon is not considered a limited edition or allocated release like some other whiskies, its popularity and high demand can sometimes lead to scarcity in certain markets. Limited availability can drive up prices as consumers are willing to pay a premium for a bottle of Eagle Rare.
Quality and Reputation: Eagle Rare bourbon is widely regarded as a high-quality bourbon with a rich and robust flavor profile. Its reputation for excellence and craftsmanship contributes to its perceived value among whiskey enthusiasts, who are often willing to pay a premium for a superior product.
Brand Recognition: Eagle Rare bourbon is produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery, which has a long history and heritage of producing exceptional whiskies. The brand’s association with Buffalo Trace’s legacy of quality and innovation adds to its perceived value and justifies its higher price point.
Overall, the combination of extended aging, limited availability, exceptional quality, and brand reputation all contribute to the relatively high price of Eagle Rare bourbon.
Why is Eagle Rare so hard to get?
Eagle Rare bourbon can sometimes be challenging to find due to several factors:
High Demand: Eagle Rare bourbon has gained a dedicated following among whiskey enthusiasts, leading to high demand for the product. Increased demand can sometimes outstrip supply, resulting in scarcity and making it harder to find on store shelves.
Limited Availability: While Eagle Rare bourbon is not considered a limited edition release, it is produced in smaller quantities compared to some other whiskies. Limited availability can make it more challenging for consumers to find Eagle Rare in their local markets.
Distribution Practices: Distribution practices can vary from one market to another, and some areas may receive fewer allocations of Eagle Rare bourbon compared to others. This variance in distribution can contribute to inconsistencies in availability and make it harder for consumers to locate bottles of Eagle Rare.
Popularity of Collecting: Many whiskey enthusiasts collect bottles of Eagle Rare bourbon due to its reputation for quality and its aging potential. The popularity of collecting can further increase demand for the product, leading to shortages and making it more difficult for consumers to purchase bottles for consumption.
Overall, a combination of high demand, limited availability, distribution practices, and the popularity of collecting all contribute to the challenges of finding Eagle Rare bourbon in some markets.
When did Buffalo Trace buy Eagle Rare?
Buffalo Trace acquired the rights to produce Eagle Rare bourbon in 1989. At that time, the Buffalo Trace Distillery, formerly known as the George T. Stagg Distillery, purchased the assets of the Seagram Company’s distillery operations, which included the Eagle Rare brand. Since then, Buffalo Trace has continued to produce and distribute Eagle Rare bourbon, maintaining its legacy of quality and craftsmanship.
How many years is Buffalo Trace aged?
Buffalo Trace bourbon does not carry a specific age statement on the bottle, meaning that the aging process can vary from batch to batch. However, Buffalo Trace bourbon is typically aged for around 8 to 10 years before bottling. This aging period allows the whiskey to develop complex flavors and aromas, resulting in a premium bourbon with a smooth and well-balanced profile.
What kind of bourbon is Eagle Rare?
Eagle Rare is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. It is made from a mash bill of predominantly corn, with smaller proportions of rye and malted barley. Eagle Rare is known for its high quality, exceptional flavor profile, and extended aging process.
One distinguishing characteristic of Eagle Rare is its aging period. Eagle Rare bourbon is aged for a minimum of 10 years, which is longer than many other bourbons on the market. This extended aging process allows the whiskey to develop complex flavors and aromas, resulting in a premium bourbon with a rich and robust profile.
Eagle Rare bourbon is typically bottled at 90 proof (45% alcohol by volume) and is known for its smooth and velvety texture, along with its notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice. It is often praised by whiskey enthusiasts for its depth of flavor and long, satisfying finish. Overall, Eagle Rare is considered a top-tier bourbon whiskey and is highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Key Takeaways
Eagle Rare is better than Buffalo trace regarding the flavor profile. It has a richer and more complex flavor profile and delivers a good amount of warmth.
It is not too sweet and has supporting wood, mint, and spice notes.
However, Buffalo Trace gets the upper hand regarding value because it is a solid bottle for its price.
Moreso, it is an entry-bourbon that you can consume neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.
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