This release is actually 19 years old.
This rare bourbon ages in oak barrels for nearly two decades and is only available in small quantities once a year, every fall. Sip this polished, well-aged whiskey to appreciate why patience is such a virtue.
The fragrant aroma has almost a wine-like character with hints of almond, cigar boxes and cinnamon. The delicate and dry mid-palate tastes of leather, vanilla and tobacco. This bourbon lingers, finishing with hint of leather and toffee.
Age: 19 years 3 months old at bottling.
Proof: 101 proof (50.5% ABV)
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Dark chocolate and cherry pie filling.
Palate: Well-balanced flavour of caramel-drizzled chocolate sponge cake.
Finish: Dry and spicy with an earthy, cigar box finish.
Batch Specific Reviews:
"The oldest Eagle Rare 17 Year ever, it’s the best 101 proof version yet and will be a memorable edition thanks to its prominent “dusty” funk note." - Nick Beiter, Breaking Bourbon
"Honestly, I can’t remember another Eagle Rare 17 release I’ve liked quite as much as this year’s. It’s atypically old, yes, but the bourbon does more than just lean on strong oak influence. Fruit and pepper accent each pour from the tip of the tongue to the finish, resulting in a bourbon that’s both rich and complex; there’s breadth AND depth of flavor aplenty." - David Thomas Tao, VinePair (97 Points)
"This is delicious stuff. I went in expecting excess oak, and this delivered well beyond that. It’s an easy pour to love, although it will be a hard one to find. Stalk this Eagle with confidence." - Bottle Raiders (95 Points)
"Crème brûlée on vanilla pudding lead off on the nose, along with brown sugar dusted over warm oatmeal, licorice, and rye spice. The palate offers tannic oak, leather, bitter baker's chocolate, tart berries, and cloves. The finish is warming and lengthy, with barrel char, wood shavings, salted caramel, and coffee grounds." - Jake Emen, Distiller (93 Points)