When it comes to the world of bourbon whiskey, there are countless options to choose from. Two notable names that often come up in discussions are Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace. While they both hail from the same distillery, there are distinct differences that set them apart. Let’s dive deeper into these differences and unravel what makes Eagle Rare unique in its own right.
The Mash Bills: A Key Differentiating Factor
One of the main factors that sets Eagle Rare apart from Buffalo Trace lies in their respective mash bills. A mash bill refers to the combination of grains used in the whiskey-making process. In the case of Buffalo Trace, they employ multiple mash bills, each with different ratios of corn, rye, and barley.
However, when it comes to Eagle Rare, the mash bill takes a slightly different approach. The master distillers at Buffalo Trace have crafted a mash bill specifically for Eagle Rare that leans towards a lower rye content, with less than 10% rye. This results in a smoother and more approachable flavor profile, making it an excellent choice for both bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers to the world of whiskey alike.
The Age Statement: Adding Complexity to Eagle Rare
Another notable distinction between Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace lies in their aging process. Buffalo Trace, known for its wide range of age statements, offers expressions that range from 6 to 23 years old. On the other hand, Eagle Rare carries an age statement of a minimum of 10 years, ensuring a more mature and complex flavor profile.
During its extended aging period, Eagle Rare develops deeper layers of flavors and aromas. This additional time spent in the oak barrels contributes to its rich and well-rounded character, as the whiskey interacts with the wood and undergoes a gradual maturation process. The result is a bourbon with a velvety smoothness, enticing notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, and a long-lasting finish.
The Bottling Strength: Cask Strength vs. Standard Proof
One more aspect that sets Eagle Rare apart from its counterpart, Buffalo Trace, is the bottling strength. While Buffalo Trace is typically bottled at a standard proof of 90, Eagle Rare takes things up a notch by offering a cask-strength edition. This means that Eagle Rare is non-chill filtered and bottled directly from the barrel, maintaining its full alcohol content.
The cask-strength edition of Eagle Rare offers bourbon enthusiasts an opportunity to experience the whiskey in its purest form, with all the robust flavors and intensity that comes straight from the barrel. It allows for a more customizable drinking experience, as one can choose to dilute it to their preferred strength or savor it as is for a bolder taste adventure.
A Final Note on Rarity and Availability
While both Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace are highly regarded and sought after by whiskey lovers, Eagle Rare holds a certain allure due to its limited availability. The scarcity of this bourbon adds to its allure, making it a coveted addition to any collection or an exceptional gift for a whiskey connoisseur.
However, it’s important to note that availability may vary depending on your location. While some fortunate individuals may have easier access to Eagle Rare, others might need to seek out specialized retailers or whiskey auctions to secure a bottle of this exceptional bourbon.
Conclusion
In summary, Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace not only share a distillery but also exhibit distinct differences that make them stand out in their own right. From their unique mash bills to the aging process, bottling strength, and rarity, each aspect contributes to the individual charm and appeal of Eagle Rare.
Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast looking for a smooth and approachable bourbon or a seasoned collector in pursuit of a rare gem, Eagle Rare offers a memorable experience that sets it apart from its sibling brand, Buffalo Trace.
