When it comes to Eagle Rare bourbon, there has been a shift in its production process that has led to changes in labeling and the perception of whether it is a single barrel bourbon. In the past, Eagle Rare was indeed a single barrel bourbon, meaning that each bottle was sourced from a single, specific barrel. This added a level of uniqueness and individuality to each bottle, as no two barrels would taste exactly the same.
However, things changed when the bottling process for Eagle Rare shifted from being done by hand to being done by machine. This transition introduced the possibility of different barrels being mixed together during the bottling process, thus diluting the concept of being a single barrel bourbon. As a result, Buffalo Trace, the distillery behind Eagle Rare, made the decision to remove the “single barrel” designation from the labeling of the bourbon.
This change in labeling does not necessarily mean that Eagle Rare is no longer a quality bourbon. It simply means that the specific barrel from which each bottle is sourced may not be guaranteed. The focus shifted more towards ensuring consistency in flavor profile across multiple bottles, rather than highlighting the uniqueness of each individual barrel.
It is worth noting that even though the labeling has changed, Eagle Rare still maintains a high standard of quality and craftsmanship. The bourbon is aged for a minimum of 10 years, which contributes to its smoothness and complexity. It continues to be highly regarded by bourbon enthusiasts and has received numerous accolades and awards over the years.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and evaluate various bourbons, including Eagle Rare. While it may no longer be labeled as a single barrel bourbon, I can attest to the fact that it still possesses the characteristics and qualities that make it a standout bourbon in its price range.
While Eagle Rare bourbon is no longer labeled as a single barrel bourbon, it still maintains a high level of quality and craftsmanship. The transition from hand to machine bottling introduced the possibility of different barrels being mixed, leading to the removal of the “single barrel” designation on the labeling. However, this change does not diminish the overall appeal and taste of Eagle Rare, which continues to be a popular choice among bourbon enthusiasts.