Great Alternatives to Eagle Rare That Won't Break the Bank

Great Alternatives to Eagle Rare That Won't Break the Bank

Let's face it, in this economy not everyone can afford that Eagle Rare 10 for $60 to $100 a pop, let alone the Double Eagle Very Rare! Almost anything by Buffalo Trace is going to be a hit and that means everyone involved in the secondary market will have it higher than the MSRP. While nothing can be a clone of Eagle Rare, there are some more affordable alternatives to try. Note, we said "alternatives" not "replacements," ok?

Some may be a hard L for you, but others just might be a W. But comparatively speaking, many of these will surely hit the spot. So let's take a gander at some offerings at a lower price than the current listing of Eagle Rare at $89.99.

A Tad Lower in Price Range

Henry McKenna Single Barrel - A tad more affordable bourbon at $67.99, Henry McKenna Single Barrel offers a refined and slightly more affordable alternative to Eagle Rare, distinguished as the only extra-aged Bottled-in-Bond single barrel bourbon. Originating from a whiskey-loving Irishman who brought his expertise to Kentucky, this bourbon combines the best of both worlds with its 40 Kentucky seasons of aging. Praised for its perfect balance, Henry McKenna Single Barrel delivers a rich and sophisticated profile, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a meticulously aged bourbon at a competitive price.

Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon - At $54.99, Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon offers a refined and elegant alternative to Eagle Rare, embodying the same dedication and craftsmanship that once defined America’s finest attire. This delightfully smooth bourbon features rich notes of chestnut, carefully crafted to deliver a truly special drinking experience. Just as “bib & tucker” referred to one’s best clothing for special occasions, this bourbon represents the pinnacle of quality, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a premium and meticulously crafted bourbon that stands out in taste and character.

Getting Closer

Evan William's Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon - At $39.99, Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon presents a premium alternative to Eagle Rare, offering exceptional value with its handcrafted quality. Selected by Master Distillers and a five-time winner of “Whiskey of the Year,” this bourbon stands out with its delicate amber gold color and a nose of dark caramel, sweet oak, and charred wood. The taste is lush and spicy, featuring notes of oak, honey, apple, and orange, leading to a long, graceful, and relaxed finish. As Evan Williams' most decorated bourbon, it meets exacting standards, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a sophisticated and award-winning bourbon at a competitive price.

Russell's Reserve 10 Year - A cheaper alternative to the Single Barrel at $44.99, Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old Bourbon offers a richly crafted alternative to Eagle Rare, showcasing nearly 100 years of combined expertise from master distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell. Bottled at 90 proof, this hand-selected small batch bourbon features a deep, caramel and vanilla flavor profile with a uniquely smooth finish. With its artisanal quality and meticulously crafted taste, Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old Bourbon stands as a worthy, slightly more affordable option for those who appreciate well-aged, premium bourbon.

Maker's 46 - For only $39.99, Maker’s 46 offers a distinctive and flavorful alternative to Eagle Rare, crafted with an innovative approach to aging. By aging the bourbon a bit longer in barrels containing seared French oak staves, Maker’s 46 develops bolder, more complex flavors while eliminating the bitterness often found in longer-aged whiskies. The result is a smooth, rich bourbon with enhanced depth, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and refined experience at a more accessible price.

Buffalo Trace Bourbon - At $34.99, Buffalo Trace Bourbon is a fantastic alternative to Eagle Rare, offering a similar flavor profile due to its shared mash bill. While it lacks a specific age statement, this bourbon from the historic Buffalo Trace Distillery, which has been crafting whiskey for over 200 years, provides a rich and satisfying experience. The deep amber whiskey boasts a complex aroma of vanilla, mint, and molasses, complemented by a pleasantly sweet taste with notes of brown sugar, spice, oak, toffee, dark fruit, and anise. The long, smooth finish adds to its depth, making Buffalo Trace an excellent choice for those seeking quality bourbon at a more accessible price.

Redwood Empire Lost Monarch - For a modest $34.99, Redwood Empire Lost Monarch offers a distinctive and affordable alternative to Eagle Rare, featuring a unique blend of 60% rye and 40% bourbon. This well-balanced whiskey showcases the sweetness from the corn and the spice from the rye, resulting in a flavor profile with notes of vanilla, caramel, and delicate maple. The butterscotch nose and light peppery finish enhance its complexity, with the rye aged between 3 to 5 years and the bourbon between 4 to 12 years. Lost Monarch provides a rich and nuanced drinking experience, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality blend at a competitive price.

That's What I'm Talkin' 'bout!

1792 Small Batch - At just $32.99, 1792 Small Batch offers a sophisticated and complex alternative to Eagle Rare, delivering exceptional quality at a lower price point. Crafted with a "high rye" recipe and select barrels carefully chosen by the Master Distiller, this bourbon boasts an expressive and elegant flavor profile. The unmistakable spice is perfectly balanced with sweet caramel and vanilla, creating a bold yet smooth experience. Celebrated by connoisseurs worldwide, 1792 Small Batch elevates whiskey to new heights, making it a brash and bold choice for those seeking refined craftsmanship without the premium price.

Benchmark Full Proof, a release from the same Buffalo Trace distillery as Eagle Rare, offers a bold and robust experience at a fraction of the price—just $24.99. This Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is bottled at the same 125 proof it enters the barrel, delivering a rich and intense flavor profile. With a scent of deep brown sugar and chocolate followed by the bold taste of caramel and baking spice, it’s meant to be sipped and savored. The long, rich finish makes Benchmark Full Proof an excellent and much cheaper alternative for those who appreciate the quality of Buffalo Trace bourbons.

Early Times Bottled in Bond - At just $19.99, Early Times Bottled in Bond offers an exceptional value as a tribute to historic bourbon-making, serving as a budget-friendly alternative to Eagle Rare. This bourbon honors the U.S. Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, ensuring it meets rigorous quality standards. Produced by one distiller at a single American distillery during one distilling season, this 100-proof whiskey is aged for at least four years under government supervision. With its rich heritage and commitment to quality, Early Times Bottled in Bond delivers a robust and authentic bourbon experience at a fraction of the cost.

Independence Day Extravaganza - Best Sellers!

Independence Day Extravaganza - Best Sellers!

You know summer has truly hit when you walk outside in the morning and feel these record-breaking temps! You also know it's legit summer when fireworks (outside major Californian cities) can be heard, meat grilling, and the Star-Spangled Banner is dusted off and hung outside the col-de-sacs and suburban streets. That's right, the Fourth of July weekend is upon us ushering in the second half of this year of twenty and twenty-four. While the backyard festivities engulf every neighborhood and bring in jovial friends, family, and coworkers, meat (and vegan alternatives) is grilled and booze is swigged.

Here at Sip Whiskey, it's also a four-day weekend full of savings! The annual Fourth of July sale is in full swing bringing every one of you a huge savings of 10% on every item store-wide! Yes, you can mark $56.99 off that bundle of Blanton's Gold, Black, and Red! Pappy Van Winkle's 20 Year Family Reserve can garner a savings of nearly $500! But let's take a gander at the more affordable, best-selling items you can save on during this extravaganza.

The Top Sellers

Aviation American Gin Deadpool Limited Edition - Crafted with precision, the meticulous process begins with a blend of botanicals, including cardamom, coriander, and French lavender, infused in neutral grain spirit for 18 hours. Through distillation and careful cuts, a heart cut boasting 142 proof is achieved before blending to the perfect 84 proof. Bottled with care, each sip embodies the essence of craftsmanship and the irreverent spirit of Deadpool. During this Fourth of July sale, you can save 10%, making it only $31.50. Also available is the 3-pack, 6-pack, and a special, custom-engraved bottle here!

Crown Royal Blackberry Flavored Whisky - Crown Royal Blackberry Flavored Whisky is a limited edition for the summer season. To create this extraordinary blend, Crown Royal whiskies are carefully selected by the Master Blender and infused with the juicy flavor of fresh blackberries. The harmonious notes of this summer fruit complement the signature richness of Crown Royal Blended Whisky. The result is a vibrantly delicious whisky, bursting with the luscious flavor of blackberry and the distinctive smoothness of Crown Royal. Mix with lemonade for a refreshing tasting cocktail. During this Fourth of July sale, it's available for $63.00 with a 10% discount. Three-packs and 6-packs are also available!

Caymus 50th Anniversary Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 - This release is a testament to fifty years of exceptional winemaking by the dedicated, passionate, and family-owned Caymus Vineyards. Since 1972, they have remained a beacon of excellence in Napa Valley, producing unparalleled Cabernet Sauvignon while staying true to their roots. This limited edition wine celebrates their rich history, tradition, and relentless pursuit of quality across generations. During this Fourth of July sale, it's available for $67.50 with a 10% discount and can be purchased in 3, 6, and 12 packs. Secure your bottles today!

Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel - Not only one of the world’s best bourbons, Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel is one of the world’s best whiskeys. Created for connoisseurs familiar with cask strength whiskeys, this enormous taste profile reaches depths of flavor found only in the rarest of spirits. The high alcohol by volume is intense and powerful yet inviting. The complexity of rye, caramel, oak, honey, and vanilla coat the palate followed by a legendary finish. Straight from the Barrel is best served neat or with a splash of water. Un-filtered, un-cut, unbelievable. During this Fourth of July sale, it's knocked down nearly $30!

Larceny Barrel Proof Batch A124 - Experience the bold allure of Larceny Barrel Proof A124, an uncut small batch bourbon aged six to eight years and bottled straight from the barrel. Crafted by Heaven Hill Distillery with a wheated bourbon mashbill of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley, this expression embodies the artistry of bourbon-making, delivering sweeter, smoother flavors in every sip. At an impressive 124.2 proof, it invites connoisseurs to explore its nuanced complexity. During this Fourth of July sale, enjoy a savings of $6.49!

Buffalo Trace Bourbon - Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is distilled, aged, and bottled at the most award-winning distillery in the world. Made from the finest corn, rye, and barley malt, this whiskey ages in new oak barrels for years in century-old warehouses until reaching peak maturity. The taste is rich and complex, with hints of vanilla, toffee, and candied fruit. The smooth finish lingers on the palate. During this Fourth of July sale, it's available for $31.50 with the discount! This savings also applies to the endless amount of bundles too!

Lagavulin Offerman Edition Caribbean Rum Cask Finish - This 11-year-old Lagavulin is finished for 8 months in casks that previously held Caribbean Rum, resulting in a symphony of sweet smoke that combines the delectable sweet notes of the tropics with the smoldering peaty smoke of Islay's irresistible elixir. Best enjoyed near the water, either neat or on the rocks. During this Fourth of July sale, you can enjoy a savings of $9.99 with the 10% discount. Pair that discount with the packs of three and six and you'll be drinking like a true Offerman!

Woodford Reserve 150th Kentucky Derby Limited Edition Julep Cup Gift Set - Woodford Reserve, as the official Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby, celebrates "The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports" with the unveiling of its 2024 commemorative Kentucky Derby Cup Gift set. This exclusive set features a 750 ml bottle of Woodford Reserve alongside an elegantly crafted Woodford Reserve julep cup adorned with the brand's distinctive branding. During this Fourth of July sale, it's on offer for only $36. Secure this limited edition set today!