What Makes Buffalo Trace's Eagle Rare Bourbon So Expensive

When it comes to topping lists of expensive bourbon blends, Buffalo Trace is a consistently mentioned label. Bottles can set bourbon lovers back several thousand dollars, and some of the more aged varieties can rack up five-digit receipts when purchased online. These bottles cost a hefty price tag for good reason, however, as many of these labels have matured for a decade or more, and barrels have been carefully picked by master blenders for tasting notes and flavors. 

While Buffalo Trace has 10, 17, and 20-year-old bourbons to sample, for many collectors, exclusivity is well worth the price. The brand's Double Eagle Very Rare whiskey is exactly that — limited. With only a few bottles made, collectors have to be prepared to open their wallets to get their hands on one of the 20-year-old libations. Not only is the mature bourbon a treat to sip, but the package it arrives in is made of silver and crystal, and each bottle is associated with a numbered letter verifying the product's authenticity. 

The extra years that Buffalo Trace bourbon is aged is part of what drives the cost of these bottles, and with a limited number allocated to each U.S. state, it's no wonder many of these blends are considered collector's items. Consumer hype helps fuel the cost, and online communities contribute to buzz around particular products. But when it comes to Eagle Rare bourbon, Buffalo Trace's dedication to creating an exceptional product has been well-noted by collectors and connoisseurs alike. Barrels are aged for at least one decade, and batches are sampled and chosen according to taste and aroma, earning the liquid gold its reputation. The exact mash bill remains a secret, however, and alligator barrels are used to perfect the nuanced drink. 

Within the Eagle Rare umbrella, bourbon lovers can choose from the 10-Year, Double Eagle Very Rare, and Eagle Rare 17-Year bottles, with prices ranging from $40 for the 10-Year to over $10,000 for the Eagle Rare Double Eagle Very Rare. If you aren't prepared to shell out for a bottle on your own, we recommend finding a few friends who might be willing to split the costs to taste a dram.