Eagle Rare 12 joins the nest: Buffalo Trace expands its award-winning lineup

Buffalo Trace Distillery has given its Eagle Rare lineup a significant feather-ruffling with the launch of Eagle Rare 12.

The new whiskey contains bourbon of at least 12 years old and is bottled at 47.5% ABV (95 proof). The distillery promises a bold yet balanced Kentucky straight bourbon. One that slots in as the grown-up sibling to the well-loved 10 Year Old, marking a major milestone in Buffalo Trace’s ongoing expansion and experimentation efforts.

The newcomer joins a family with Eagle Rare 10, Double Eagle Very Rare, Eagle Rare 25, and Eagle Rare 17 (part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection). Safe to say this bird is nesting in good company.

Buffalo Trace expands its award-winning lineup

The distillery, which proudly claims to be the world’s most awarded, spent a casual $1.2 billion over the past decade expanding its operations, and this release is a direct result of that rather sizeable investment. It’s built on Mashbill #1, the same grain recipe used in classic Buffalo Trace Bourbon and Eagle Rare 10, but it is aged a touch longer and bottled stronger to offer a richer, more complex flavour profile.

The tasting notes tell us to expect aromas of sweet oak and toasted almonds. Layers of vanilla, toffee, and warm spice follow on the palate. The finish leaves a satisfyingly rich impression.

Master distiller Harlen Wheatley says the release reflects “years of dedication, innovation, and an unwavering commitment” from the entire Buffalo Trace team. Global brand director Andrew Duncan adds that Eagle Rare 12 represents “age stating excellence in bourbon” – flexing on the brand’s ethos of quality over shortcuts.

While Eagle Rare 12 will begin landing on select shelves, backbars, and bourbon-hunting bingo cards across the US in June 2025, the rest of us will have to wait until autumn.

The Last Drop: Eagle Rare 12 Joins the Nest

Buffalo Trace adds a new Eagle Rare to its permanent range. A 12-year-old, 95-proof bourbon aimed at sipping sweet spot territory. Keep your eyes peeled for its release later in the year.

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