There used to be a time when Eagle Rare was indeed a single barrel bourbon. It was highly sought after by whiskey enthusiasts who appreciated the unique characteristics and flavors that each individual barrel possessed. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting some incredible single barrel bourbons, and Eagle Rare was no exception.
However, things changed when the bottling process for Eagle Rare transitioned from being done by hand to being done by machine. This shift introduced the possibility of different barrels being mixed together during the bottling process, thus diluting the concept of a single barrel bourbon. As a result, Buffalo Trace, the distillery behind Eagle Rare, made the decision to no longer label it as a single barrel bourbon.
While this change in labeling may disappoint some purists who appreciated the uniqueness of each individual barrel, it's important to remember that the quality and taste of the bourbon itself has not necessarily been compromised. Buffalo Trace is still committed to producing a high-quality product, and they continue to hand-select barrels for bottling based on their flavor profile and overall excellence.
In fact, the non-single barrel bottlings of Eagle Rare still maintain a high level of consistency and offer a rich and complex flavor profile. Each bottle of Eagle Rare is aged for a minimum of 10 years, allowing for the development of deep flavors and aromas. The bourbon is known for its smoothness, with hints of caramel, vanilla, and oak, making it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts.
While the absence of the “single barrel” label may indicate a shift in the production process, it doesn't necessarily mean that the quality of Eagle Rare has diminished. It simply means that the potential for different barrels to be blended together exists, creating a more consistent product overall.
As a sommelier, I understand the importance of consistency in a product, especially when it comes to spirits like bourbon. While the allure of a single barrel bourbon is undeniable, there is also something to be said for the craftsmanship and expertise that goes into creating a consistent flavor profile that can be enjoyed by whiskey lovers around the world.
While Eagle Rare is no longer labeled as a single barrel bourbon, it still offers a high-quality and enjoyable drinking experience. The transition from hand to machine bottling introduced the possibility of blending barrels, but Buffalo Trace continues to prioritize flavor and excellence in their selection process. Whether you prefer the uniqueness of a single barrel bourbon or the consistency of a blended product, Eagle Rare remains a standout choice for bourbon enthusiasts.