Eagle Rare 17 Year Bourbon (Fall 2015)

This marks my 200th review, where some entries just include a score and tasting details. Although it was five years ago, I confirmed the bottle at a whiskey establishment I visited. For my 200th, I desired a departure from typical whiskey, and it coincided with my anniversary, so there you have it. I truly appreciate the regular bottling for its profound sweetness and its 10-year age statement considering the cost. Regarding this BTAC release, I'd note its mouthfeel is less watery than the standard and possesses greater refinement. It offers a pleasant oak character without being overwhelmingly woody. I believe a key appeal of Buffalo Trace bourbons for many is their balanced nature and relative mildness compared to other bourbons. Naturally, this has advantages and disadvantages, as one experiences a balanced or "smooth" serving lacking significant complexity. I appreciate Blanton's and Elmer T. Lee products, but in my view, they aren't worth the hundreds of dollars above retail they command. Returning to this Eagle Rare 17 year... it was a clear improvement over the 10 year, featuring enjoyable oak and sweetness, and the initial taste clearly indicates it's an aged iteration of the standard. That said, I'm pleased to have sampled another whiskey from the BTAC series, but I absolutely would not spend over $1,000 for this bottle, which is common pricing currently. I haven't sampled the higher proof versions from recent years, but I anticipate they surpass these lower proof expressions.

The aroma has notes of black cherry. It's not excessively oaked. The finish is longer than that of Eagle Rare 10, with a lingering quality like a quiet hotel mini-fridge. It's a subtle background presence that becomes so consistent and unobtrusive it feels like the new norm for quiet. Despite this... considering secondary market prices, I'd opt for the $30 Eagle Rare 10 every time.

Opened this finally last night. Exceeded my expectations. It shares similarities with the 10, but the oak influence is significantly more pronounced here. I'm really enjoying it. Sadly, the air made this nectar less impressive as I finished the bottle.

I detect less vanilla in this compared to the ten-year version, but both will remain in my collection.

Green apple and caramel notes on the nose, palate, and finish - simply the best!

Wonderfully smooth, yet with a powerful flavor. Perfect for an exceptional Manhattan.