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Eagle Rare Bourbon Price, Sizes & Guide (2024)

Eagle Rare Buying Guide

Last Updated on March 20, 2024 by Lydia Martin

So, what’s the Eagle Rare bourbon price? Eagle Rare is a straight bourbon whiskey matured for at least a decade before being bottled at 90 proof. Its lofty, distinctive taste has garnered gold medals at various spirits competitions. 

In this article, we’ll take a look at the bourbon: its unique tasting notes, distillation process,  price, and everything that makes it so rare (pun intended). 

Eagle Rare Bourbon & Its History

Eagle Rare Bourbon

Eagle Rare was first introduced to the public in 1975 by the now-defunct Seagram (a conglomerate of distilled spirits).

The brand, created by master distiller Charles L. Beam, is now manufactured by Buffalo Trace, alongside other Buffalo Trace products like E.H. Taylor, Blanton’s, and the titular bourbon. 

Apart from the 10 Year, they also sell rare 17-year-old bottles as part of Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection, in production since 2000.

This variant was previously bottled at 90 proof, but since 2018, they have been released at 101 proof. 

Did You Know? 

Did You Know? 

Key Ingredients

The Buffalo Trace Distillery has never fully disclosed the brand’s mash bill, aside from it belonging to their proprietary Mashbill # 1 (made from barley, corn, grain, and rye).

As a result, Eagle Rare is simplistically sweet, with hints of candied almonds and very rich cocoa. 

Its finish is moderately dry, following the lingering sweetness in the nose and palate. We found it reminiscent of fine port wine [1]. 

Read: Eagle Rare Bourbon vs Angel’s Envy

Distillation & Aging Process

Oak Barrels for Bourbon

This is a small-batch bourbon whiskey.

It used to be marketed as a single-barrel, but they dropped that claim in 2005 when they switched from hand bottling to a high-speed automated line, as there is always the chance that different barrels might mix.  

Read: Eagle Rare vs Blanton’s Bourbon

Who Makes This Bourbon?

The label is owned by the Sazerac Company and is now produced at the Buffalo Trace Distillery after having sourced whiskey during its initial purchase.

Charles L. Beam created it in 1975 under Seagram. 

Although Chuck did many different things as a master distiller for the company, he was most famous for creating Eagle Rare, which earned him a spot in the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame in 2010. 

Read:

What Makes It Expensive

Eagle Rare with glass

We would consider it a premium bottle at $40-ish per 750 ml. What’s great is that this spirit is aged for a full ten years — the longer aging period ensures a smoother, more well-rounded spirit compared to other bourbons

Common Eagle Rare Bourbon Prices

Compared To Other Bourbons 
Bottle TypeSizeAlcohol ProofAverage Price
Eagle Rare 10 Year Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey750 ml90Around $35.99
Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey750 ml111Around $2,065.99
Eagle Rare ‘Double Eagle Very Rare’ 20-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey750 ml101 Around $21,599.99

*Average prices are based on Drizly online. Prices may vary in local liquor shops.

Compared To Other Bourbons

Compared To Other Bourbons

Buffalo Trace

Eagle Rare is also produced in the Buffalo Trace Distillery, and it is said that it uses the same mash bill that the titular brand does.

This label is pleasantly sweet, with brown sugar, toffee, and anise. Light amounts of smoky oak and spicy rye bring a much-needed contrast to all the sweetness. 

A 750 ml bottle of Buffalo Trace costs around $47.99 in stores, close to Eagle Rare’s pricing. 

Read: Eagle Rare Bourbon vs Buffalo Trace

Bulleit

Bulleit

Bulleit Bourbon is most famous for its high-rye bourbon whiskey (95 percent in the mash bill), which adds an unmistakable spicy kick to each sip.

Its bold flavors explode on your tongue, but once you’ve gotten over the heat, you’ll notice subtle flavors of elegant vanilla, honey, and walnut wood. 

You can get a bottle of Bulleit for around $31 in stores, which is cheaper.

Evan Williams

Evan Williams is bottled at 86 proof after being aged for four years.

Warm vanilla, apples, and peppery spices take center stage in this whiskey, followed by dried herbs and an old leather spice finish. 

Evan Williams is about half the price of Eagle Rare’s at around $25 per 750 ml bottle. 

Read: Blue Run Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Popular Eagle Rare Cocktails 

Popular Eagle Rare Cocktails 

The Gold Baron 

Prep Time: 2 minutes 

Total Time: 2 minutes 

Ingredients: 

  • 1.5 oz Eagle Rare Bourbon 
  • 0.5 oz Applejack, Laird’s 
  • 0.5 tsp Grenadine 
  • 0.5 tsp cane syrup 
  • 1 tbsp bitters 
  • Ice 

Instructions: 

Combine all ingredients in a rocks glass with one large ice cube. Serve as is. 

Serving: 1 

Clementine Bourbon Smash 

Clementine Bourbon Smash

Prep Time: 10 minutes 

Total Time: 10 minutes 

Ingredients: 

  • 2 oz Eagle Rare Bourbon
  • 2 oz clementine juice 
  • 2 oz lime juice 
  • 1 oz orange liqueur (triple sec or Grand Marnier) 
  • 1 oz maple syrup 
  • 8 dashes bitters 
  • 2 clementines 
  • 4 mint leaves 
  • Club soda 
  • Ice 

Instructions

Peel and cut 1 clementine into wedges and drop inside a cocktail shaker with the mint leaves and muddle until their natural juices have been released.

Pour the other liquid ingredients (except club soda) followed with ice, and shake until well-combined. 

Strain and pour the mixture into two highball glasses filled halfway with ice. Top with club soda and garnish with clementine wedges. 

Serving: 2

FAQs 

Is Eagle Rare hard to find?

Yes, Eagle Rare is quite hard to find. As Buffalo Trace markets it as an ultra-premium allocated bourbon, most connoisseurs snatch this bottle up as soon as they see it available.

Its long aging period also makes it an instant crowd-pleaser with great demand. But which bourbons are similar to Eagle Rare?

How often is Eagle Rare released?

Eagle Rare 10 Year Bourbon is produced throughout the year. It is released to the market as soon as there is availability in supplies (as opposed to when there is a demand).

The brand’s 17-year-old variant, on the other hand, is only released once a year during fall.  

Why is Eagle Rare so expensive?

Eagle Rare Bourbon is considered a premium bourbon due to its exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and limited availability. Its higher price tag reflects factors such as its aging process, which occurs for a minimum of ten years in charred oak barrels, allowing the whiskey to develop rich flavors and complex aromas. Additionally, Eagle Rare is produced in limited quantities, with careful attention to detail and quality control throughout the distillation and aging process. Its reputation for excellence and rarity contributes to its exclusivity and higher price point compared to other bourbons.

Why is it hard to find Eagle Rare Bourbon?

Eagle Rare Bourbon’s popularity and limited production contribute to its scarcity on the market. Demand for this premium bourbon often exceeds supply, leading to difficulty finding it in stores or online. Additionally, its aging process of at least ten years means that new batches take time to produce, further limiting availability. Furthermore, Eagle Rare’s reputation for exceptional quality and distinctive flavor profile fuels its desirability among bourbon enthusiasts, making it a sought-after commodity that tends to sell out quickly when available.

Is Eagle Rare bourbon or whiskey?

Eagle Rare is a bourbon whiskey. Specifically, it is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, meaning it is produced in the United States, primarily from corn, and aged for a minimum of two years in new charred oak barrels. Like all bourbons, Eagle Rare must adhere to strict production regulations, including containing at least 51% corn in its mash bill and being distilled to no more than 160 proof before being aged in barrels.

How much is Eagle Rare in the USA?

The price of Eagle Rare Bourbon in the USA can vary depending on factors such as location, retailer, and availability. Generally, a standard 750ml bottle of Eagle Rare typically ranges from $30 to $50 USD, although prices may vary slightly based on local taxes and distribution. Limited edition releases or specialty bottlings may command higher prices due to their rarity and collectibility.

Is Eagle Rare 10 year rare?

Eagle Rare 10 Year is a specific expression of Eagle Rare Bourbon, named for its aging process of a minimum of ten years in charred oak barrels. While the term “rare” is included in the name, it primarily refers to the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of the bourbon rather than its scarcity. While Eagle Rare 10 Year is not as widely available as some mainstream bourbons, it can still be found in specialty liquor stores and online retailers, particularly in regions with strong bourbon culture.

Is Eagle Rare still made?

Yes, Eagle Rare Bourbon is still in production today. It is distilled and aged at the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, where it has been crafted for decades. The distillery takes pride in maintaining the traditional methods and high standards that have made Eagle Rare a beloved bourbon among enthusiasts worldwide. While availability may vary due to its limited production and high demand, Eagle Rare remains a staple offering from Buffalo Trace Distillery.

Why is Eagle Rare so good?

Eagle Rare Bourbon is highly regarded among whiskey enthusiasts for its exceptional quality, complexity, and smoothness. Several factors contribute to its esteemed reputation, including its aging process of a minimum of ten years in new charred oak barrels, allowing the whiskey to develop rich flavors and aromas. Eagle Rare is also known for its balanced flavor profile, which includes notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice, along with a long and satisfying finish. Additionally, its careful craftsmanship and adherence to traditional bourbon production methods contribute to its consistency and overall excellence, making it a favorite among connoisseurs and collectors alike.

Who owns Eagle Rare?

Eagle Rare Bourbon is owned and produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery, located in Frankfort, Kentucky. Buffalo Trace Distillery is one of the oldest and most respected distilleries in the United States, with a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. It is known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and craftsmanship, producing a wide range of acclaimed spirits, including bourbons, ryes, and whiskeys. Eagle Rare is one of the flagship brands of Buffalo Trace Distillery, representing the pinnacle of bourbon craftsmanship and tradition.

How do you drink Eagle Rare bourbon?

Eagle Rare Bourbon can be enjoyed in various ways, depending on personal preferences and taste preferences. Many whiskey enthusiasts prefer to sip Eagle Rare neat or on the rocks to fully appreciate its complex flavors and aromas. When drinking neat, pour a small amount of Eagle Rare into a whiskey glass or Glencairn glass and allow it to breathe for a few minutes to unlock its full potential. Take small sips, allowing the whiskey to coat your palate and exploring its rich flavors of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice. Alternatively, Eagle Rare can be used as the base for classic bourbon cocktails such as the Old Fashioned or Manhattan, where its bold flavors complement other ingredients to create a delightful drinking experience.

What kind of alcohol is rare?

Eagle Rare is a type of bourbon whiskey, specifically classified as a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. As such, it follows specific regulations and standards set forth by the United States government for the production of bourbon. These regulations dictate that bourbon must be made from a grain mixture that is at least 51% corn, distilled at no more than 160 proof, and aged in new charred oak barrels.

Eagle Rare is crafted at the Buffalo Trace Distillery located in Frankfort, Kentucky, where it undergoes meticulous distillation and aging processes. The distillery’s expertise and dedication to traditional bourbon-making techniques ensure that Eagle Rare maintains the distinctive characteristics expected of high-quality bourbon whiskey.

Characterized by its smoothness, complexity, and depth of flavor, Eagle Rare exhibits notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice, with a long and satisfying finish. It is aged for a minimum of ten years in new charred oak barrels, allowing the whiskey to develop its rich flavors and aromas.

Overall, Eagle Rare stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and heritage of bourbon-making in Kentucky, offering enthusiasts a premium and distinctive drinking experience.

Is Eagle Rare smooth?

Eagle Rare is widely recognized for its exceptional smoothness, a hallmark of its high quality and careful craftsmanship. As a premium bourbon whiskey, Eagle Rare undergoes a meticulous production process at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, ensuring that every aspect of its flavor profile is finely tuned for a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience.

One of the key factors contributing to Eagle Rare’s smoothness is its aging process. Eagle Rare is aged for a minimum of ten years in new charred oak barrels, allowing the whiskey to mature and develop complex flavors while mellowing out any harsh or bitter notes. This extended aging period contributes to the smoothness of the final product, as it allows the whiskey to integrate and balance its flavors over time.

Additionally, Eagle Rare is crafted with the utmost attention to detail, from the selection of high-quality grains to the precise distillation process. Each step of the production process is carefully monitored to ensure that only the finest whiskey makes its way into each bottle of Eagle Rare.

The result is a bourbon whiskey that is renowned for its velvety texture, rich flavor profile, and effortless drinkability. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail, Eagle Rare consistently delivers a smooth and satisfying drinking experience that is cherished by bourbon enthusiasts around the world.

How much alcohol is in Eagle Rare?

The alcohol content in Eagle Rare Bourbon typically falls within the standard range for bourbon whiskey, which is 40% to 50% alcohol by volume (ABV), also known as 80 to 100 proof. However, the specific alcohol content of Eagle Rare may vary slightly between batches or expressions.

As with all bourbon whiskeys, Eagle Rare is subject to regulations set forth by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) in the United States. These regulations dictate that bourbon must be distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% ABV) and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof (40% ABV). Most bourbons, including Eagle Rare, are typically bottled at a higher proof to preserve their flavor profile and ensure consistency.

Eagle Rare’s alcohol content plays a significant role in its overall flavor profile and drinking experience. The higher proof contributes to the whiskey’s robustness, intensity, and complexity of flavors, while also providing a warming sensation on the palate. When enjoying Eagle Rare, it’s essential to drink responsibly and be mindful of its alcohol content to fully appreciate its rich flavor profile and smooth drinking experience.

Why is Eagle Rare so good?

Eagle Rare Bourbon is highly regarded among whiskey enthusiasts for several reasons, contributing to its reputation as a premium and exceptional bourbon whiskey.

First and foremost, Eagle Rare is celebrated for its outstanding quality and craftsmanship. Produced at the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, Eagle Rare undergoes meticulous production processes, from the selection of high-quality grains to the precise distillation and aging techniques. The whiskey is aged for a minimum of ten years in new charred oak barrels, allowing it to develop rich flavors, complex aromas, and a smooth, velvety texture.

One of the defining characteristics of Eagle Rare is its remarkable flavor profile. The whiskey boasts notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice, with a long and satisfying finish. These flavors are well-balanced and harmonious, providing a delightful drinking experience that is both enjoyable and memorable.

Furthermore, Eagle Rare’s consistency and reliability contribute to its appeal. With each bottle, consumers can expect the same exceptional quality and flavor profile, making it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Overall, Eagle Rare stands as a testament to the heritage and tradition of bourbon-making in Kentucky, offering drinkers a premium and distinctive whiskey experience that is cherished and celebrated around the world.

Is Eagle Rare Bourbon Price Worth It? 

Eagle Rare is an incredible ten-year-old bourbon for its price point, considering most bourbons out in the market only meet the two-year-old aging criteria. The drink is smooth yet complex, with notes of caramel and vanilla, complete with an oaky finish. Its flavor profile will work extremely well whether you enjoy your bourbon neat, on the rocks, or in a classic Manhattan. 

Reference: 

  1. Port Wine
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