Eagle Rare 17 Vintage Power Rankings: Which Eagle Rare 17 Vintage is the best?

Eagle Rare 17 Vintage Rankings: A Comprehensive Analysis 

Eagle Rare 17 Year stands as a cornerstone of Buffalo Trace's prestigious Antique Collection (BTAC). Known for its remarkable balance of aged complexity and approachability, this expression exemplifies how extended aging can enhance rather than overwhelm a bourbon's character when managed skillfully. 

Introduction 

Eagle Rare 17 has undergone significant evolution since its inception in the BTAC lineup. Perhaps the most notable change came in 2018 when Buffalo Trace increased the proof from 90 to 101, marking a new era for the expression. While the name suggests a 17-year aging period, many releases actually exceed this age statement, with Buffalo Trace treating it more as a minimum requirement than a target. Evaporation loss has become increasingly significant for Eagle Rare 17 releases, with recent vintages showing some of the highest rates in the collection's history.   

1. Eagle Rare 17 (2024 Release) 

We think the most recent 2024 release stands as the pinnacle of Eagle Rare 17's achievements, particularly in the 101-proof era. Despite being younger than 2023's record-setting age (17 years, 4 months vs. 19 years, 3 months), this release achieves an exceptional balance between vibrant fruit notes and mature oak character. This 2024 release had a remarkable 86% evaporation loss, meaning the combined remaining amount left in barrels that were batched for 2024’s bottling was only 14%, likely resulting in a highly concentrated flavor profile. The bourbon masterfully combines stone fruits and raspberry brightness with deep leather and tobacco notes, all unified by a distinctive funky aged oak undertone. It proves that Buffalo Trace can achieve excellence at 101 proof, matching or exceeding the celebrated lower-proof releases of the past. It is a near perfect example of what high aged, moderately proofed quintessential Kentucky bourbon should taste like. 

Score: 4.9/5 

2. Eagle Rare 17 (2013 Release) 

Often considered the benchmark for Eagle Rare 17, this 90-proof release exemplifies perfect balance in aged bourbon. At 19 years old, it demonstrated remarkable restraint in oak influence while delivering complex layers of vanilla, cherries, caramel, and subtle raisins. Its mellow character and expertly integrated oak set the standard for what well-aged bourbon should taste like.  

Score: 4.7/5 

3. Eagle Rare 17 (2023 Release) 

The oldest Eagle Rare 17 ever released at 19 years, 3 months, this expression marked a triumphant return to form for the 101-proof era, with many citing this release as the best 101-proof release to date. distilled in the Spring of 2004 and aged across warehouses C, I, K, M, and Q, the 2023 releases distinctive "dusty" funk note provides a unique character reminiscent of vintage bourbons from the mid-1900s. The complex aroma profile of dark chocolate-covered cherries, caramel, and raspberry is masterfully balanced with seasoned oak, creating a memorable drinking experience that nearly matches the legendary 2013 release. 

Score: 4.7/5 

4. Eagle Rare 17 (2019 Release) 

A truly pivotal release that proved the merit of the transition to 101 proof.  The higher Proof (ABV) enhanced the mouthfeel and intensified the flavor profile while maintaining the brand's signature elegance. Notable for its dark fruit character, baking spices, and rich oak influence, it demonstrated remarkable balance between power and finesse. This release draws comparisons to the 2013, 90-Proof version, with the only difference being the higher proofing and a drier, cinnamon influenced finish.  

Score: 4.5/5 

5. Eagle Rare 17 (2017 Release) 

At 90 prof, the 2017 release brings a more restrained yet still complex experience. The nose is sweet and sugary with aromas of vanilla, custard, powdered sugar, and well-baked shortbread, which give way to waxy, fruity notes reminiscent of an orange-scented candle. The palate is lean but pleasant, offering a balance of burnt sugar bitterness, orange peel, cherry, and vanilla bean, with a light but velvety texture. The finish is moderately long, featuring integrated oak and a hint of tartness that keeps the profile fresh. This release presents a sweeter, more rounded experience compared to its predecessors, showcasing a satisfying complexity despite its lighter mouthfeel. While not the most fruit-forward release, it finds a pleasant balance of oak and sweetness, making it a standout for those seeking a richer, more refined Eagle Rare 17. 

Score: 4.5/5 

 6. Eagle Rare 17 (2012 Release) 

The 2012 release of Eagle Rare 17, aged 17 years, stands out with a unique sweetness and lighter oak profile. It features an enticing mix of floral and fruity notes, with caramel, maple syrup, and a faint touch of cinnamon. The woodiness is certainly there but is well-mannered, which is surprising for a 17-year-old bourbon. This batch saw a moderate evaporation loss, which contributed to the concentration of flavors while still keeping the bourbon from feeling overly oaky. Bottled at 90- Proof, this release is smoother than the drier, more oak-forward releases like the 2011 batch, making it an approachable yet complex expression. 

Score: 4.5/5 

7. Eagle Rare 17 (2008 Release) 

The 2008 release of Eagle Rare 17 is known for its unique combination of herbal, earthy flavors and sweetness. Aged for 17 years, it stands out due to its herbal and slightly bitter notes, with dry tobacco, coconut, and a touch of licorice root. Despite being bottled at the standard 90 proof, the complexity of this bourbon is marked by a deep, herbal aroma that contrasts with the brighter fruity notes found in some other releases. This release is especially compelling for those who enjoy a more nuanced, less sweet profile. 

Score 4.3/5 

8. Eagle Rare 17 (2016 Release) 

The 2016 release was barreled in 1999 in new white oak with a #4 “alligator” char level and bottled at 90-proof. stands out for its intriguing nose, which combines slightly overripe apricots, peanut brittle, and well-browned pie crust, alongside a surprising herbaceous freshness that recalls garden sage. The palate, while a bit punchy and odd at times, eventually gives way to a delightful finish of dusty potpourri, rose petals, and vanilla. The overall sweetness is understated, leaving more room for the earthy, leathery flavors to shine. Though the entry and mid-palate fall slightly short of perfection, the finish elevates the experience, leaving a lingering impression of vanilla, fresh coconut, and fenugreek. This release presents a more nuanced and herbal profile, appealing to those who enjoy complex finishes over overt sweetness. 

Score 4.2/5 

9. Eagle Rare 17 (2010 Release) 

The 2010 release of Eagle Rare 17, aged 17 years and 7 months, is an excellent example of how well Buffalo Trace balances age with approachable flavor. Despite its 90 proof, the bourbon packs a flavorful punch, offering a blend of sweet toffee, vanilla, and a pleasant spiciness from the rye. The finish is long, with the spiciness lingering nicely without overpowering the sweetness. This release stands out for its smoothness, with the rye spice providing a pleasant contrast to the bourbon's more decadent caramel and vanilla notes. 

Score: 4.1/5 

10. Eagle Rare 17 (2006 Release) 

The 2006 release of Eagle Rare 17, aged 18 years, offers a strikingly oak-forward profile with deep flavors of leather, rye spice, and dark fruits. The dryness of this batch and its oak tannins are its defining characteristics, offering a long, dry finish with lingering spice and oak. The 2006 release is best suited for fans of wood-forward bourbons that emphasize oak tannins over sweeter elements. This release seems a touch drier and more lean or ascetic than previous ER17 bottlings.   

Score: 4/5 

11. Eagle Rare 17 (2022 Release) 

At 17 years, and 5 months, this release offered an intriguing fruit-forward profile centered around baked cinnamon apples. While the dry finish pushed the boundaries of oak influence, it maintained enough balance to deliver a satisfying experience that highlighted both classic bourbon characteristics and subtle fruit complexities. 

Score: 4/5 

12. Eagle Rare 17 (2011 Release) 

The 2011 release of Eagle Rare 17, aged 18 years and 7 months, features a more austere, oak-forward character due to significant evaporation loss—nearly 53% of the original spirit. This concentrated woodiness results in a drier, more leathery profile compared to the 2012 release. The bourbon’s oak-driven flavor is coupled with earthy notes, such as a subtle muskiness, dry tobacco, and faint caramel and drinks slightly higher than its advertised 90-proof. This bottling retains a smoothness despite the heavy wood influence, but the dry finish and sour undertones set it apart from other years. This batch is for those who appreciate a more tannic style with less emphasis on sweetness and more on wood and earth. 

Score: 3.8/5 

 13. Eagle Rare 17 (2018 Release) 

The 2018 release of Eagle Rare 17 represented a monumental shift for the future of Eagle Rare 17 with an increased proof of 101 (50.5% ABV) from the previous 90-Proof (45% ABV) releases. The nose is immediately inviting, presenting a harmonious blend of cherry gummies, cola, vanilla frosting, and nutmeg. While there is some varnish creeping in, the overall aroma remains enjoyable, offering a promising start to the experience. On the palate, however, the sharpness and thin mouthfeel at 101- Proof become apparent, with tannins taking center stage and leaving the flavor profile feeling angular. Notes of sarsaparilla and earthy oak provide complexity but verge on over-oaked territory. The finish, while bitter, is complemented by interesting leather and savory spices that add depth. While the nose hints at potential, the palate’s thinness and dry finish ultimately hold this release back from reaching the heights of some other years. For many, this release registers in the same ballpark as a lot of 90 proofers at 18+ years – pushing too heavily into the varnish and oak profile. 

Score: 3.7/5 

14. Eagle Rare 17 (2021 Release) 

Despite its impressive age of 18 years, 6 months, this release demonstrated how delicate the balance can be in well-aged bourbon. With such an age there is often a fine line between being balanced versus being over oaked. Thankfully, the 2021 Eagle Rare 17 tends to skew towards the former.  While it offered lovely notes of toasted sugar, crème brûlée, and tart apple, the finish was notably dry and short, preventing it from reaching the heights of the best releases. 

Score: 3.5/5 

15. Eagle Rare 17 (2020 Release) 

At 18 years, 3 months, this release spent it’s time on the 1st floor of Warehouse P aging in a new white oak barrel that had a #4 char.  While it delivered complex notes of dark fruits, baking spices, and aged oak, it didn't quite achieve the perfect balance found in top-tier releases, with many connoisseurs finding it too mellow. Nevertheless, it remained a solid entry in the series. 

Score: 3.5/5 

16. Eagle Rare 17 (2014 Release) 

The 2014 batch, was bottled from 26 barrels that saw a 54.9% loss to evaporation, totaling to an estimated 4,531 bottles released. aged for 19 years, introduces a heavier oak influence compared to other releases, with cinnamon, brown sugar, leather, and dark cherry notes making their presence felt. Despite the oak being more prominent, it doesn’t overwhelm, and the spicy finish with flavors of nutmeg and clove provides a satisfying conclusion. This 2014 vintage is still one of the better examples of a high aged bourbon that didn't lose all of its characteristics after resting in the barrel for too long. That makes it unique to some degree but much less. While not as balanced as the 2013 or 2023 releases, its rich oak and spice complexity still makes it a unique and intriguing release. 

Score 3.4/5

17. Eagle Rare 17 (2015 Release) 

Whilst this release maintained the core Eagle Rare profile, reviewers noted a thin body and underwhelming palate compared to both younger and older releases. The 2015 edition is notable in the ER17 vintages, drawing on a brand-new source of stock than what was used in previous years, aged on the first, second and third floors of Warehouses Q and I.   

Score: 3.3/5 

 In Summary

1. The transition to 101 proof in 2018 initially presented challenges but has recently produced some of the finest releases.
2. Age statements consistently exceed the stated 17 years, with actual ages ranging from 17 to 19+ years.
3. Recent releases (2023-2024) show masterful control of oak influence despite extended aging.
4. Evaporation loss has become increasingly significant, with recent releases showing some of the highest rates in the collection's history.