Eagle Rare 10 Years
Buffalo Trace is undoubtedly one of the most respected distilleries in Kentucky, perhaps even in the entire USA. They present different variations of their Kentucky Straight Bourbon under various brand names. Today we're looking at Eagle Rare's 10-years whiskey, which is based on their secret "Mash Bill #1", which is thought to contain less than 10% rye.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The aroma begins with an intense sweet-fruity flavour. Vanilla, caramel and an extremely pleasant orange note unfold first. This is followed by spicier nuances: oak, dark chocolate and a herbaceous, spicy freshness reminiscent of mint. The scent evokes associations with a wonderfully empty warehouse full of old whiskey barrels.
Palate
The wonderful oiliness impresses on the tongue, and the flavour fulfils the promises of the nose. Sweet nuances of honey, buttered popcorn and milk chocolate unfold, while spicier flavours such as oak, bitter orange and an exotic coconut note send the palate on a journey. A slight tingle and a pinch of cinnamon round off the flavour experience.
Finish
The finish completes the Eagle Rare experience in an equally impressive way. Tart, spicy oak notes dominate here, comparable to a delicious rye bread with butter. The sweetness resonates subtly and is primarily reminiscent of caramel. The whiskey is soft and warming on the palate.
Thoughts
Marcel 79/100
Eagle Rare 10 Year is a true delight, bursting with character and a surprising oiliness that enlivens the drinking experience. For anyone seeking a sweet and spicy bourbon with some edge and complexity, this whiskey is a fantastic companion – and all at a very fair price. Here, drinking pleasure meets quality you can taste!
Sascha 81/100
With a balanced interplay of sweet and bitter notes and a complex aromatic profile, Eagle Rare 10 Year impresses as a technically very clean Kentucky Straight Bourbon. The distinct barrel influence and harmonious viscosity create a structured mouthfeel that appeals to both newcomers and seasoned connoisseurs alike.
Value for Money: Excellent
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What sets Eagle Rare 10 Year apart from other Kentucky Straight Bourbons?
Eagle Rare 10 Year is based on Buffalo Trace’s secret "Mash Bill #1," which contains less than 10% rye. This results in a bourbon that is less spicy and instead showcases pronounced sweet-fruity and vanilla notes, combined with a subtle oak spiciness.
How should Eagle Rare 10 Year be best enjoyed to experience all its aromas?
The best way to enjoy Eagle Rare 10 Year is neat or with a small drop of water to fully unlock its complex aromas of vanilla, caramel, dark chocolate, and oak. This also brings out its oiliness and long finish to their fullest.
Which flavor notes are typical for Eagle Rare 10 Year compared to other Buffalo Trace whiskeys?
Typical are the combination of sweet notes like honey, buttered popcorn, and milk chocolate, alongside spicy aromas of oak wood, bitter orange, and exotic coconut. This is rounded off by a dry-spicy finish with hints of rye bread and caramel, completing the tasting experience.