Eagle Rare vs. Buffalo Trace.
It’s a battle for the ages.
These two highly sought-after bottles are both fantastic. But which is better between the two?
And more importantly, which is the better value?
We’ll answer all that and more below.
Eagle Rare vs Buffalo Trace: An Overview
The two are actually pretty identical in their essence, despite having different branding. They both come from the same distillery (Buffalo Trace), have the same proof, and utilize Buffalo Trace’s mashbill #1.
The key distinction is that Buffalo Trace does not specify its age (although is thought to be 8-10 years old) and Eagle Rare is said to be at least 10 years old.
So, the differences in taste largely come down to aging and barrel selection.
Buffalo Trace vs. Eagle Rare: Detailed Comparison
1. Availability
Retail availability is a weak point for both bottles. Both spirits are available on an allocation-only basis.
As a result, rather than having their inventories replaced on demand or when supplies are low, retailers only receive a certain number of cases.
But there’s a huge discrepancy when it comes to the amount of cases companies will get…
Buffalo Trace is supplied in much higher amounts because it’s the distillery’s flagship, affordable option.
Eagle Rare has a much more limited supply.
Winner = Buffalo Trace
2. Price
Both bottles are priced at $30 MSRP. But these days, MSRP means nothing.
And because these bottles are allocated, prices could go much higher which is the case for the Eagle Rare. It’s currently sold anywhere between $50-$75.
Buffalo Trace’s price is a bit more stable at around $30.
So BT obviously wins this round, but Eagle Rare isn’t super overpriced for $50 in my opinion.
Winner = Buffalo Trace
3. Taste
both bottles are great flavor-wise. They are both rich, flavorful, and easy to drink.
Eagle Rare has overtones of oak, leather, and vanilla and is wonderful despite tasting a touch less rich than the scent implies. The mouthfeel is gentle and approachable.
BT is more on the sweet and mellow side. My palate picked up mostly vanilla flavors, along with a little spice and brown sugar undertone. Some may get overwhelmed by its sweetness, but it’s a fan favorite nonetheless. It’s a bit thinner than I had hoped for.
Eagle Rare is undoubtedly superior in this department since it drinks better than the gentle, more subtle BT. But the Buffalo Trace is a way better start for beginners as it’s less oaky.
Winner = Eagle Rare
4. Value
Eagle Rare is an excellent bottle. You should definitely snag one if you ever see one. Nevertheless, its MSRP of $30 is a little bit more reasonable than its current $50 price point.
Buffalo Trace, on the other hand, isn’t the finest bourbon you’ll ever try, but it’s so popular because it’s straightforward, delectable, and a must-try if you’re new to the game.
The pricing is where it truly shines out. Only a select few $30 bourbons can compete with BT.
Winner = Buffalo Trace
Verdict
While Eagle Rare is a much higher quality bourbon, Buffalo Trace is the better buy for casual drinkers.
It has a similar flavor profile, is easier to find, and is about half the price.
But if you’re solely looking to try something new or like BT and want a richer version, Eagle Rare won’t let you down.
Yes, it’s above its “MSRP”, but it’s a higher quality bourbon.
Interested in reading a more thorough review on each?
Click here to read the Eagle Rare 10 year Review and here to read the Buffalo Trace review.
Hunter Branch is the Founder and Director of Editorial for Bourbon Inspector. He has been writing about and professionally reviewing bourbon since 2020 (and has been drinking it for much longer). He’s been able to interview big names in the bourbon industry like Trey Zoeller from Jefferson’s Bourbon and his work has been featured in publications like TastingTable, Mashed, and more.