Eagle Rare Double Eagle Very Rare – Double the Age, Double the Prestige

Updated → September 2025

The Eagle Rare Double Eagle Very Rare is a 20-year-old ultra-premium bourbon whiskey presented in a stunning crystal decanter. This extremely limited release from Buffalo Trace has captured collectors’ imaginations with its exceptional age, exquisite packaging, and rarity. Whiskey enthusiasts prize it as much for its rich, oaky flavor profile as for its status as a highly coveted bourbon trophy.

Table of Contents

• The Ultra-Rare Bourbon Boom
• Buffalo Trace’s Eagle Rare Legacy
• Introducing Double Eagle Very Rare
• Aged Two Decades for Depth
• Decanter and Presentation
• Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile
• Exceptionally Limited Releases
• Eagle Rare 10 Year vs. Double Eagle 20
• Eagle Rare 17 Year vs. Double Eagle 20
• A Standout Among Bourbon Heavyweights
• Price: MSRP and Market Value
• How to Get Your Hands on a Bottle
• Should You Drink It or Save It?
• Storing and Displaying a Rare Bourbon
• Final Thoughts: A Bourbon Collectors’ Dream

The Ultra-Rare Bourbon Boom

In recent years, the bourbon world has experienced a boom in ultra-rare releases that send enthusiasts into a frenzy. Limited-edition bottles with long ages and luxurious packaging have become status symbols in the spirits community. Eagle Rare Double Eagle Very Rare exemplifies this trend – it’s a bourbon that combines exceptional age with exclusivity, drawing comparisons to other legendary collectibles like Pappy Van Winkle. Enthusiasts are willing to pay steep premiums and join long waiting lists for a chance to own such a bottle. This surge in demand for rare bourbons reflects a broader trend: whiskey isn’t just for sipping, it’s for collecting and celebrating.

The craze for high-end bourbons has grown beyond just taste – it’s about the story and rarity. Distilleries respond by releasing special editions in very small quantities. Collectors often chase these bottles not only for the rich whiskey inside but also for the bragging rights of having something nearly impossible to find. From charity auctions to online forums, the excitement around ultra-rare bourbons has fostered a passionate subculture. In this climate, Double Eagle Very Rare has risen to fame as one of the ultimate prize bottles in the bourbon boom, symbolizing the heights of what American whiskey offers in luxury and scarcity.

Buffalo Trace’s Eagle Rare Legacy

Eagle Rare is a respected name in bourbon, with a legacy dating back to 1975. Produced by the famed Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, the Eagle Rare line started with a 10-year-old single barrel bourbon that many know and love for its smooth, oaky character and approachable price. Over time, the brand expanded to include the exceptionally limited Eagle Rare 17 Year – part of the annual Buffalo Trace Antique Collection – which introduced bourbon fans to an older, more refined Eagle Rare experience. These whiskeys helped build Eagle Rare’s reputation for quality and complexity, winning awards and devoted followers along the way.

Building on that legacy, Buffalo Trace took the Eagle Rare brand to new heights with Double Eagle Very Rare. This 20-year-old expression pushed the boundaries of age for the label, essentially doubling the aging of the classic Eagle Rare 10. In doing so, Buffalo Trace signaled that Eagle Rare isn’t just an everyday bourbon – it can also occupy the pinnacle of exclusivity. The release of Double Eagle Very Rare solidified the Eagle Rare family as encompassing both widely available favorites and some of the rarest bourbons on the planet. It showcases Buffalo Trace’s dedication to innovation and patience, as well as their understanding that bourbon lovers are eager for truly special experiences tied to storied brands.

Introducing Double Eagle Very Rare

First introduced in 2019, Eagle Rare Double Eagle Very Rare made headlines as an ultra-luxurious bourbon offering. This special release is a 20-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey that lives up to its name in every way. Buffalo Trace created Double Eagle Very Rare to celebrate Eagle Rare’s heritage by crafting something twice as old as the standard 10-year bottling. The result is a bourbon that not only has two decades of maturation behind it, but also arrives in packaging fit for a museum display.

The name “Double Eagle” carries a double meaning. It refers to the bourbon being aged twice as long as Eagle Rare 10, and it also alludes to the remarkable presentation of the bottle – which actually features two crystal glass eagles (more on that soon). From the moment it was announced, Double Eagle Very Rare generated enormous excitement among collectors. Whiskey aficionados recognized that this was a unique chance to taste extremely old Eagle Rare bourbon, something Buffalo Trace had never offered to the public in this way. With only a few hundred bottles released in its inaugural edition, it immediately became one of the most sought-after bourbons in the world.

Bourbon aficionados seeking Eagle Rare Double Eagle Very Rare have often had to rely on luck and timing. A few specialty retailers, such as The Liquor Store of Jackson Hole, have occasionally secured a bottle for sale. (You can always check with us at 115 Buffalo Way, Jackson, WY 83001 or call (307) 733-4466 to inquire about availability.) Given the bourbon’s rarity, any announcement of a bottle in stock tends to spread quickly among local enthusiasts and is usually followed by a rapid purchase. It’s truly a special event when this bourbon lands on a store shelf, even if only briefly.

Aged Two Decades for Depth

The defining characteristic of Double Eagle Very Rare is its impressive 20-year age statement. Aging a bourbon for two decades is a delicate art – in the Kentucky climate, bourbon can extract intense flavors from the oak barrel over such a long time. Many bourbons rarely surpass the 15 to 18-year mark because too much time in new charred oak can lead to overly woody or bitter notes. However, Buffalo Trace carefully selected barrels that could withstand the extra years. The result after 20 years is a whiskey with extraordinary depth and complexity, where the extended maturation has concentrated rich flavors.

Sitting twice as long in the barrel as regular Eagle Rare, this bourbon has had ample time to develop. Over 20 years, the spirit experiences dramatic seasonal temperature swings, drawing deep into the oak and then back out, which infuses it with layers of character. Those extra years bring out intense notes of oak and spice that you’d expect, but enthusiasts report that Double Eagle Very Rare manages to remain surprisingly balanced. The distillers chose barrels that maintained a harmony of flavors even after two decades, ensuring the whiskey wasn’t over-oaked. Achieving that balance is no small feat and speaks to the expertise behind the scenes. The long aging also means evaporation – “the angel’s share” – was significant, which is one reason so few bottles exist. Every drop left in those barrels after 20 Kentucky summers and winters is precious.

Decanter and Presentation

One cannot discuss Double Eagle Very Rare without marveling at its presentation. Each bottle comes in a luxurious hand-blown crystal decanter that is a work of art in its own right. Inside the decanter, as the name suggests, an eagle figurine is meticulously sculpted from crystal, seeming to float in the bourbon. On top, the stopper itself is another beautifully crafted crystal eagle. This “double eagle” design makes the bottle instantly recognizable and is a nod to the bourbon’s name and concept. Collectors often display the empty decanter as proudly as any piece of art, given its elegance and craftsmanship.

The decanter is housed in an equally extravagant silver-hinged presentation box. The box has two engraved sliding doors adorned with an eagle feather motif. When you slide them open, tiny spotlights are activated to illuminate the decanter from above and below, causing the amber bourbon and crystal eagles to glow. It’s a theatrical and memorable unboxing experience that underscores the exclusivity of the whiskey. Each set comes with an individually numbered letter of authenticity as well, certifying the bottle’s number out of the limited production and adding to the collectible appeal. From the heavy glass to the ornate details, the packaging of Double Eagle Very Rare clearly positions it as more than just a drink – it’s a collector’s item and a conversation piece.

Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile

While the packaging is stunning, Double Eagle Very Rare’s true beauty is meant to be in the liquid itself. Those fortunate enough to taste it have described a remarkably layered flavor profile. On the nose, this 20-year bourbon often greets you with aromas of dark cherry, creamy caramel, and vanilla – a deep sweetness intertwined with the gentle presence of oak. As you take a sip, the palate unfolds with rich flavors: think of dark chocolate and aged oak, accompanied by dried fruits like dates or figs. There’s a smokiness and a hint of leather that tell you this whiskey has spent a long time in oak, yet it remains smooth and not overly tannic.

The finish of Double Eagle Very Rare is frequently noted as exceptionally long and complex. After swallowing, flavors of cinnamon spice and anise may linger, along with a warm oakiness that reminds you of the bourbon’s age. It’s a finish that seems to go on and on, which is exactly what you’d hope for in such a rare spirit. Notably, the earlier editions of Double Eagle were bottled at 90 proof, delivering a soft and elegant experience, whereas a later release came out at 101 proof, adding a bit more intensity and echoing the proof of the original Eagle Rare from decades ago. Either way, the balance is key – despite 20 years in a barrel, it isn’t just a bitter oak bomb. Instead, the flavors are well-integrated, and the proof is managed to ensure the sip is luxurious and refined. In essence, Double Eagle Very Rare provides a tasting journey that mirrors its story: rich, prolonged, and unforgettable.

Exceptionally Limited Releases

Just how rare is Double Eagle Very Rare? The answer: extremely. Buffalo Trace releases this bourbon in very limited quantities, and not necessarily every single year. The initial release in 2019 consisted of just 299 bottles for the entire world. Subsequent editions have been similarly scant – one release had only 199 bottles. Each bottling run is tiny compared to most whiskeys, making every bottle a true collector’s prize. These numbers highlight why so few people will ever get to see a bottle in person, let alone taste it. It’s not produced regularly like standard Eagle Rare; instead, it appears only when a select few barrels are deemed exceptional enough after aging 20 years.

The distribution of Double Eagle Very Rare is as limited as the production. Bottles might be allocated to a handful of high-end retailers, often one bottle at a time, or offered via lotteries and special events. For instance, The Liquor Store of Jackson Hole’s allocation, if any, would likely be a single bottle due to the region’s limited share – and that’s a common scenario. Some editions have been known to be available only through direct communication or special release events rather than sitting openly on shelves. The combination of minuscule supply and enormous demand means that when a bottle does surface, it usually finds a buyer almost immediately. In the secondary market among private collectors, Double Eagle Very Rare has been sold and resold for astonishing sums, further emphasizing how uncommon it is. In short, this bourbon earns the “Very Rare” in its name; owning one is a badge of honor in the bourbon community.

Eagle Rare 10 Year vs. Double Eagle 20

How does the 20-year Double Eagle Very Rare compare to its younger sibling, the 10-year Eagle Rare? First and foremost, the age difference is dramatic. Eagle Rare 10 Year Old is a beloved staple – a smooth, single-barrel bourbon that many enjoy for its balance of oak, vanilla, and mild spice. It’s typically bottled at 90 proof and is widely available, often at an affordable price point around $40. In a sense, it’s a perfect daily sipping bourbon: mellow, refined, and approachable. The Double Eagle Very Rare, on the other hand, is literally twice as old and worlds apart in exclusivity and cost.

Flavor-wise, you can expect the Double Eagle 20 Year to be a much more intense and layered experience than the 10 Year. The 10-year Eagle Rare has a fresh oak presence with notes of caramel and orange peel, and it finishes fairly clean and straightforward. Contrast that with the 20-year: decades in the barrel bring forth much deeper vanilla, dark fruit, and heavy oak tones. The mouthfeel of Double Eagle is often richer, and the finish is significantly longer and more complex. The extra age adds dimensions that a younger bourbon can’t have – think leathery undertones, cigar-box spice, and an evolved sweetness akin to toffee or molasses, compared to the 10-year’s lighter honey and fruit sweetness. In short, Eagle Rare 10 is an excellent everyday bourbon, whereas Double Eagle Very Rare is a once-in-a-lifetime sensory experience meant to be savored slowly.

Eagle Rare 17 Year vs. Double Eagle 20

The Eagle Rare 17 Year Old bourbon occupies a special place as part of Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection, and it provides an interesting middle ground when comparing the Eagle Rare family. At 17 years old, it’s already a very mature bourbon and much harder to find than the 10-year (though still not as elusive as Double Eagle). Eagle Rare 17 is usually bottled at 101 proof in recent editions, giving it a bold character. Fans of the 17-year praise its dried fruit, oak, and spice profile; it’s complex and robust, clearly showing what a few extra years can do beyond the standard 10-year.

Now, how does Eagle Rare 17 stack up against Double Eagle Very Rare at 20 years? The difference of three years might not sound huge, but at these high ages, each additional year can impart noticeable changes. The 20-year Double Eagle tends to be a touch smoother in some respects, possibly due to being bottled at a slightly lower proof (90 proof in some releases). The oak influence in both is pronounced, but the Double Eagle often shows a bit more of the sweet, almost syrupy oak character rather than just dry woodiness – a sign that Buffalo Trace was very selective with those barrels. Eagle Rare 17 can have a spicier kick and a robust profile that bourbon enthusiasts love, whereas Double Eagle Very Rare might come across as more polished and velvety, emphasizing a refined balance of sweet and oak. Essentially, if Eagle Rare 17 is an exceptional bourbon that pushes towards the limits of age before going overboard, then Double Eagle Very Rare carefully extends those limits just a little further, delivering a supremely aged bourbon without losing harmony. Both are outstanding; one is just markedly more rare and dressed up in an extra layer of luxury.

A Standout Among Bourbon Heavyweights

In the world of high-end bourbons, Eagle Rare Double Eagle Very Rare stands shoulder to shoulder with some legendary names. It’s instructive to compare it to a few other “heavyweight” bourbons to appreciate where it fits in the pantheon of prized bottles:

• Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23 Year: Often considered the holy grail of bourbon, this wheated 23-year-old has a cult following. While Pappy 23’s MSRP (around $300) is much lower than Double Eagle’s, the secondary market prices can also reach several thousand dollars. Pappy 23 offers deep flavors of maple, nuts, and oak, but comes in a regular bottle – no elaborate crystal decanter. In terms of prestige, Double Eagle Very Rare’s presentation outshines even Pappy, though both are incredibly hard to obtain.
• Michter’s 20 Year Bourbon: Another sought-after limited bourbon, Michter’s 20 Year is released in tiny batches and is known for its rich toffee and oak profile. It’s priced at around $700 MSRP but often sells for much more. Michter’s and Double Eagle share a similar age, but Michter’s (while luxurious) doesn’t have the over-the-top packaging. Both demonstrate how a 20-year bourbon can be exquisite when carefully managed in the barrel.
• George T. Stagg (Buffalo Trace Antique Collection): This is a cask-strength behemoth usually aged around 15–16 years. It’s uncut and unfiltered, prized for its intensity. Though younger than Double Eagle, Stagg is extremely popular among aficionados and also very limited. Its profile is fiery, chocolatey, and powerful. Double Eagle, by contrast, is lower proof and emphasizes smoothness and elegance. Collectors often want both – Stagg for the raw intensity, Double Eagle for the refined luxury.
• Old Rip Van Winkle 25 Year (OFC): Buffalo Trace once released a 25-year Van Winkle bourbon in a crystal decanter (part of their OFC series). That release, much like Double Eagle, was encased in crystal and came with a sky-high price (tens of thousands of dollars at auction). It shows that Double Eagle Very Rare isn’t the only whiskey Buffalo Trace has presented in ultra-luxe fashion, but it is unique in being part of the Eagle Rare line. The 25-year Van Winkle was even rarer in quantity, but these two share the concept of being “endgame” bottles for serious collectors.

What sets Double Eagle Very Rare apart among these heavyweights is the combination of its pedigree, age, and presentation. It’s not just about an old bourbon – it’s about creating an experience. Buffalo Trace leveraged the beloved Eagle Rare brand to launch something that feels celebratory and almost otherworldly in the bourbon category. Many ultra-aged bourbons come in simple bottles; Double Eagle comes in a masterpiece of glass. As a result, it has carved out a distinct spot in whiskey history as the ultimate expression of Eagle Rare and a poster child for the lengths distillers will go to captivate the premium bourbon market. For bourbon connoisseurs, owning Double Eagle Very Rare is like owning a piece of that history – it’s a statement that you’ve acquired one of the crown jewels of Kentucky bourbon.

Price: MSRP and Market Value

The price of Eagle Rare Double Eagle Very Rare reflects its luxury status. The official suggested retail price (MSRP) was set around $1,999 when it first launched – already making it one of the most expensive bourbons at retail. However, the reality is that almost no one obtains it at that price. Given the bottle’s scarcity and demand, any available stock at retailers often carries a much higher tag. It’s not uncommon to see stores listing it for $4,000, $5,000, or more. In fact, our store’s offering of this bourbon has reflected its market value, which can be several times the MSRP.

The secondary market (where collectors resell bottles among themselves) has seen astonishing prices for Double Eagle Very Rare. Early on, some bottles reportedly changed hands for upwards of $8,000–$10,000 when hype was at its peak. Over time, as a few more editions were released and initial frenzy settled, resale prices have ranged more in the $4,000–$6,000 territory – still a hefty sum by any measure. These numbers make Double Eagle one of the priciest American whiskeys around. For context, even the highly sought Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year might fetch a few thousand on secondary, which Double Eagle handily exceeds. Of course, the value of such a collectible can fluctuate: an economic shift or a new must-have whiskey can affect demand. But as of now, Double Eagle Very Rare firmly holds its place as a bourbon that commands a premium for the privilege of ownership. Whether one sips it or saves it, every ounce is literally worth a small fortune.

How to Get Your Hands on a Bottle

For most bourbon lovers, the pressing question is: how can one actually acquire Eagle Rare Double Eagle Very Rare? Given the limited supply, obtaining a bottle requires equal parts strategy, persistence, and luck. Here are some avenues hopeful collectors pursue:

• Join Lotteries and Drawings: Some liquor stores and state liquor agencies hold lotteries for the right to purchase rare bottles like Double Eagle. It’s worth signing up for any local raffle or lottery systems – you can’t guarantee a win, but it’s often the fairest shot for a regular consumer.
• Build Relationships with Retailers: Develop a good rapport with high-end liquor retailers (like befriending staff at The Liquor Store of Jackson Hole). Customers who are loyal and known to the store sometimes get first notice or access when an extremely rare bottle becomes available. Being a consistent patron can put you on the short list when treasures arrive.
• Sign Up for Notifications: Use the “notify me” features on websites if they list Double Eagle Very Rare as out of stock. For instance, our store site allows customers to add their email/phone to get alerts. If a bottle comes in, you’ll want to be among the first to know.
• Attend Exclusive Auctions or Events: On occasion, bottles are sold via charity auctions, private barrel selects, or membership club events. Keep an eye on bourbon enthusiast groups and local event listings – sometimes paying to attend a high-end tasting or gala can present an opportunity to bid on rarities like this while contributing to a cause.
• Secondary Market and Brokers: As a last resort, some turn to private sales or whiskey brokers who deal in collectible bottles. This route typically means paying a steep markup, and it’s crucial to verify authenticity. Ensure any secondary transaction is legal in your area and be cautious about fakes.

In all cases, patience is key. It might take years to track down a bottle. Many enthusiasts will never have the chance to buy Double Eagle Very Rare at retail, and those who do often consider it the crown of their collection. If you’re determined, use multiple strategies: enter lotteries, network with fellow whiskey aficionados, and stay connected with retailers and online communities. Occasionally, lightning strikes – perhaps your favorite store calls you one day with a surprise allocation, or you win a raffle you entered on a whim. That’s the thrill of the hunt in the bourbon world.

Should You Drink It or Save It?

Imagine you’ve beaten the odds and obtained a bottle of Eagle Rare Double Eagle Very Rare. A new dilemma arises: do you crack it open and savor the whiskey, or do you keep it sealed as a collectible investment? This is a question that plagues many fortunate owners of ultra-rare spirits. On one hand, bourbon is made to be enjoyed – the distillers crafted those flavors for someone to taste, and a bottle like Double Eagle is undoubtedly a transcendent tasting experience. The argument for drinking is about celebrating a special occasion or creating a memorable moment. Many enthusiasts say, if you have just one bottle like this, find the right time (a milestone birthday, an anniversary, a gathering of close whiskey-loving friends) and share it. The act of enjoying such a rare bourbon can be as rewarding as possessing it.

On the other hand, keeping the bottle sealed has its merits. As a collectible, an unopened Double Eagle Very Rare will likely appreciate in value over time, especially as unopened examples become scarcer. Some people view it similarly to art or fine wine – an asset that can be traded or sold later, potentially for a profit. Beyond monetary value, there’s also the aesthetic and sentimental value of the intact presentation. The full, sealed decanter with its golden liquid and crystal eagles is a sight to behold. Once opened, you can of course still display the decanter, but something changes – the whiskey will slowly evaporate over years and the unified package as it left the distillery is gone.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal priorities. There’s no wrong answer. If you’re a whiskey connoisseur who values the taste experience above all, then by all means plan a tasting and relish every sip (and know that very few people on the planet get to enjoy what you’re tasting!). If you’re a collector first, you might keep it as the jewel of your collection indefinitely. Some compromise by opening the bottle but preserving most of the bourbon in sample vials, so they both taste it and maintain the original decanter mostly filled for display. Either way, whether you drink or save, owning a Double Eagle Very Rare is something special, and the story of what you chose to do with it will be uniquely yours.

Storing and Displaying a Rare Bourbon

For those who do decide to hold onto Eagle Rare Double Eagle Very Rare – whether unopened or with some whiskey remaining – proper storage and display are important to maintain its condition. First and foremost, like any fine whiskey, you should keep the bottle out of direct sunlight and away from extreme temperatures. UV light can degrade the bourbon over time and also fade labels or packaging. Heat can cause the liquid to expand and potentially compromise the seal, accelerating evaporation or oxidation. Ideally, store the decanter in a cool, dark place when it’s not being shown off. A stable room temperature (around 60-70°F) is advisable.

While the presentation box with its built-in lights is a gorgeous way to display the bottle, you might not want to leave those lights on for extended periods, as they could generate a bit of heat or light. They’re best used for short durations when you’re actively showing the bottle. Many collectors use glass cabinets or bar shelves with subtle accent lighting to highlight their rare bottles – if you do, ensure the bulbs are LED (which emit minimal heat and no UV). The decanter’s crystal stopper does form a seal, but it’s not as tight as a screw cap. Over years, some evaporation (“angel’s share”) from the opened bottle is inevitable. Keeping the stopper and neck clean and reseating the stopper firmly can help slow this down.

If you’re extremely serious about preservation, you might consider a specialized storage solution. For example, The Vault of Jackson Hole (our own climate-controlled storage facility) caters to collectors who want ideal conditions for their valuable wines and spirits. In such a facility, temperature and humidity are kept constant, and security is top-notch. This is the kind of environment where a $5,000+ bottle can rest safely for years without worry. Short of that, a home wine fridge or cellar set to the mid-60s°F can provide a good home for rare bourbons too. As for display, some owners keep the empty bottle on display after the bourbon is gone – if you do drink it, you’ll still have the beautiful decanter forever. Just be sure to rinse it with distilled water and let it fully dry to prevent any residue or clouding of the crystal.

Final Thoughts: A Bourbon Collectors’ Dream

Eagle Rare Double Eagle Very Rare is more than just a whiskey; it’s a statement piece in the bourbon world. From the moment you see that glimmering crystal decanter with twin eagles, you know you’re encountering something extraordinary. For collectors and enthusiasts, it represents the pinnacle of what American bourbon can be – exquisitely aged, painstakingly presented, and incredibly scarce. It’s the kind of bottle that even seasoned bourbon drinkers might only dream of seeing or tasting one day. In the grand story of Kentucky bourbon, Double Eagle Very Rare has quickly become a legend, mentioned in the same breath as the all-time greats.

Whether you’re pursuing a bottle as an investment, a trophy, or the ultimate sipping experience, the journey is part of the allure. Hunting for a unicorn like this can rekindle the excitement of why you fell in love with bourbon in the first place. And if you ever get the chance to pour a glass from your own bottle, you’ll be participating in a rare piece of whiskey history. Here at The Liquor Store of Jackson Hole, we celebrate that passion. We might not always have a Double Eagle Very Rare on hand, but we love to help customers discover remarkable spirits and will gladly assist in your quest for the extraordinary. In the meantime, keep enjoying the journey, cherish the special bottles you do find, and remember – in the world of whiskey, sometimes the rarity and stories are as satisfying as the drink itself.