Buffalo Trace, which produces Eagle Rare, was named Distiller of the Year by Whisky Magazine in 2005 and 2007 and by Wine Enthusiast in 2006. F. Paul Pacult of the Spirit Journal gave the brand four stars and said: "Easily one of the most tactile yet assertive and expressive bourbons I've tasted in the last two years; fasten your seatbelts." Honey-colored, with aromas of toasted wheat bread and hints of tobacco, opening up to almond butter, melon, and lanolin. On the palate it is oily and toasty with flavors of cereal grains and oak. The finish is long and corn sweet with a little spice.