Well. Having full intention of continuing my pursuit for bourbon under $50 I had the resolve to try Buffalo Trace for the first time when I was interrupted by the stocker in the store. He pointed me in the direction of this bottle and stated it had been flying off his shelves and I would be inclined to try Eagle Rare if I should feel adventurous. Emboldened by this challenge I resolved to buy this bottle without knowing anything about it. Adventure always starts where you least expect it and damned I would be to turn my back to intrigue. I digress, upon arriving home I found this bourbon to be pleasantly poured from a seemingly dubious wine bottle. A dark amber liquid with a not-to-oily consistency starts off with a strong taste of oak/maple notes and was instantly sweet to the tongue...only to be reminded that this is indeed a bourbon good sir and it would like to remind me of its origin with a strong lasting burn. Toned down with a cube of ice and you would never have known of this harsh yet fond sensation. Along side the wood notes is a mild cherry top without the reservations of presuming this liquor to be a desert. Strong and full bodied with a sweet side it has reliability written all over it. This adventure must continue to the 17 year bottle should I find one. 3.8/5