2023's Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) is announced! And the shouting headline here is that the Eagle Rare 17 Year Old is the oldest yet! 

Every year, one of the most anticipated Bourbon releases is the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection which consists of five expressions: the Sazerac 18 Year Old, Thomas H Handy, George T Stagg, the W L Weller, Eagle Rare 17 Year Old.

This year what stands out is that the Eagle Rare 17 Year Old is the oldest by far, punching in at a technical age of 19 Years and 3 Months, even if the label says 17 Years Old.

Here's the breakdown of each release:

George T Stagg Bourbon, 135 Proof, Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2023

Tasting Notes: Aromas of cinnamon and cherry cola, and a mix of leather, chocolate and vanilla on the palate, the company reports, before a robust, earthy finish.

Proof: 135 Proof (67.5% ABV)

Distillation Year: 2008

Age: 15 Years and 4 Months

Warehouse: C, I, K, L & M

W L Weller Bourbon, 133.6 Proof, Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2023

Tasting Notes: Candied notes of dark brown sugar and vanilla bean are on the nose, according to distillery notes, followed by a palate with stewed cherry and brown sugar crumble, and a finish with baking spice and a hint of maple syrup.

Proof: 133.6 Proof (66.8% ABV)

Distillation Year: Spring 2011

Age: 12 Years Old

Warehouse: C, L, M & N

Eagle Rare 17 Year Old, 101 Proof, Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2023

Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate and cherry pie filling on the nose with a flavor of caramel-drizzled chocolate sponge cake, finishing with dry and spicy notes of an earthy cigar box.

Proof: 101 Proof (50.5% ABV)

Distillation Year: Spring 2004

Age: 19 Years and 3 Months

Warehouse: C, I, K, M, & Q

Thomas H Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey, 124.9 Proof, Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2023

Tasting Notes: Aroma of orange zest and lemon oil, caramel and hints of pine, the company reports. On the palate, freshly baked rye bread spread with orange marmalade and honey appear first, followed by a finish of light oak and black licorice.

Proof: 124.9 Proof (62.45% ABV)

Distillation Year: -

Age: 6+ Years

Warehouse: -

Sazerac Rye 18 Years Old, 90 Proof, Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2023

Tasting Notes: Aroma of dried orange, rye grain, clove and aniseed, the company reports, plus a palate of black pepper, vanilla and oak, with a florally honey and tobacco leaf finish.

Proof: 90 Proof (45% ABV)

Distillation Year: Fall 2004 & Spring 2005

Age: 18 Years

Warehouse: K, L & M

Each expression is sold separately and each priced at an MSRP of US$124.99, and will be available in early October 2023.

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team