Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 09:47 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between 1792 Small Batch vs Eagle Rare in this in-depth comparison and decide which Bourbon is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
1792 Small Batch vs Eagle Rare: Comparison
1792 Small Batch Bourbon: Offers a spicy and bold flavor profile, ideal for those who appreciate a dram with a strong character. Provides an accessible entry into the world of high-rye bourbons, celebrating Kentucky’s rich distilling heritage.
Eagle Rare Bourbon: Elevates the bourbon experience with its 10-year aging process, resulting in a more sophisticated and oak-forward profile. Appeals to enthusiasts seeking depth, complexity, and the nuances that come with extended aging.
Verdict: Eagle Rare stands out for those seeking a mature bourbon with a pronounced oak influence and depth of flavor. 1792 Small Batch, while less complex, offers a spicy and enjoyable option at a lower price point, making it suitable for everyday sipping and bourbon explorers, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Bourbons most similar to Eagle Rare
1792 Small Batch: A Decent Dram with a History Lesson
- Alcohol content: 94 proof (47% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Angel’s Envy
1792 Small Batch bourbon might not be your new best friend, but it has its charms. Let’s delve into its history and taste to see if it’s a worthy addition to your bourbon journey.
A Touch of History:
- Despite the name, it’s not named after the year a distillery was founded. It pays homage to 1792, the year Kentucky became a state.
- Owned by Buffalo Trace, it’s crafted at the Barton Distillery.
The Aroma:
- Charred wood takes center stage, followed by banana, green apple, and a hint of rye spice. Over time, it develops a creamy, earthy character.
The Taste:
- Smooth and cinnamon-forward, but the spice gradually intensifies.
- Dry oak notes join in, making it slightly one-dimensional.
- Hints of banana and fruit struggle to compete with the strong spice.
The Finish:
- Medium-length with lingering cinnamon spice, dry oak, and a warm glow.
Is it for You?
- Easily approachable, but lacks the complexity and balance some may seek.
- Enjoyable flavors, but doesn’t leave a lasting impression.
1792 Small Batch Facts:
- Originally had an 8-year age statement, which was removed in 2013.
- High rye content contributes to the spicy profile.
- Celebrates Kentucky’s statehood.
- Award winner, including Double Gold at the 2011 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
So, should you try it? If you’re new to bourbon or enjoy a bold, spicy dram, 1792 might be worth exploring. However, if you crave complexity and balance, there might be better options out there.
Level Up Your Bourbon: Diving into Eagle Rare
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Weller Special Reserve
Eagle Rare: This 10-year-old bourbon from Buffalo Trace is a step up from its younger sibling, Buffalo Trace. Want to know why? Let’s explore:
Aged to Perfection:
- 10 Years of Magic: Compared to Buffalo Trace’s 6 years, Eagle Rare enjoys double the aging, resulting in a drier, oakier character. Think of it as a more mature version of the original.
Flavor Profile:
- Nose: Toasted oak takes center stage, followed by hints of orange peel, red fruit, and maple syrup, creating an enticing aroma.
- Palate: Creamy and buttery texture with oak at first, but soon opens up to vanilla, dried fruit, caramel, and baking spice for a balanced experience.
- Finish: Long and slightly spicy, with pronounced oak, old leather, and tobacco notes. Adding water softens the punch, but oak remains prominent.
Is it for You?
- Oak Forward: Due to its oaky character, beginners might find it strong. But for experienced bourbon lovers, Eagle Rare is a delight and considered one of the best 10-year-olds on the market.
Eagle Rare Facts:
- Aged at least 10 years in new, charred oak barrels under the Kentucky sun.
- Hand-picked barrels ensure quality and consistency.
- Launched in 1975, it has a rich history, now owned by Sazerac.
Ready to Level Up? If you’re looking for a more complex and mature bourbon experience, Eagle Rare is worth a try. Just remember, its oaky punch might not be for everyone.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| 1792 Small Batch | $33 |
| Eagle Rare | $47 |