EAGLE RARE 17 YEAR BOURBON 2022 RELEASE

Key Specs & Background

• The 2022 release is part of the BTAC line from Buffalo Trace.

• Age statement: 17 years (officially at least 17 years old).

• Actual age: about 17 years and 5 months for the 2022 release.

• Proof: 101 proof (50.5 % ABV).

• Distilled: Spring of 2005 (for this release).

• Warehouses used: Warehouses H, K & L at Buffalo Trace.

 Tasting Profile & Characteristics

From reviews:

• Nose: “Baked cinnamon apples”, “aged oak”, “light vanilla powder”, “light rye spice”.

• Palate: Brown sugar, toasted oak, light caramel chews, baking spice, cinnamon apples, touch of dark fruits, light rye spice.

• Finish: Peppercorn spice, dry chewy oak, leather, rye spice, dry lingering heat.

• Overall: Reviewers note that while it carries classic bourbon flavours, the finish is “dry” and “chewy” from the extended age.

 Why It’s Good / Why It’s Special

• It’s part of the BTAC collection, which is highly sought‑after and limited production, which adds to its prestige.

• A “proper” long‑aged bourbon: 17+ years in barrel gives depth, complexity, oak character that younger bourbons don’t have.

• Bottled at a classic 101 proof — strong enough to show structure, yet manageable (compared to many BTAC bourbons which are barrel proof).

• Because of the specific warehouses (H, K, L) and aging time, this release has a distinct profile compared to past years. The “17y5m” age indicates they’re close to the age statement, but not massively beyond it.

Things to Keep in Mind / Possible Cons

• Dry / oak‑heavy finish: Some reviewers note that with this much age, the oak and dryness can dominate. The “dry chewy oak” finish is both a hallmark and a caution.

• Rarity & cost: Given its limited nature and collector demand, the actual market price is far above MSRP in many cases.

• Collectible vs. drinkable balance: If you buy for collection, you might keep it sealed. If you buy to drink, realize that it’s a high‑end pour and should be treated as such (decanting, letting it breathe, enjoying slowly).

• Authenticity & provenance matter: With collectible bourbons, condition of bottle, seal, storage, provenance are important..

 My Take / What I’d Recommend

If I were advising you and you were considering this bottle, here’s what I’d suggest:

• If your intention is to buy and collect:

  • Ensure the bottle is sealed, fill level is good, packaging looks original, and provenance is clear.

  • Store it in a cool, dark place with stable temperature to preserve quality and value.

  • Understand that this is a long‑term hold; you may not see immediate resale gains but part of value is rarity and story.

• If your intention is to open and drink:

  • Use a proper glass (Glencairn or similar) and pour a modest serving — this is a “moment” bottle.

  • Let it sit in the glass for a minute or two to open up, maybe add a drop of water if you prefer, but this is strong (101 proof) so enjoy its full body.

  • Given the oak and age, savour the complexity: vanilla, dark fruits, oak tannin, spice. Probably best neat or just with a little water — avoid heavy cocktails which could mask the nuances.

  • Consider sharing it with someone who will appreciate it — these bottles are rare and memorable.

• If your intention is value/flip:

  • Be sure you’re tracking the market; get a sense of recent comparable sales in your country/region (if you’re outside the U.S.).

  • Be aware of legalities around shipping alcohol internationally (if relevant for you in Cameroon/Africa).

  • Keep the packaging perfect; condition matters.