Buffalo Trace Distillery is back with the highly anticipated 2024 release of its celebrated Antique Collection (BTAC). As always, this fall marks the arrival of some of the most sought-after whiskeys in the world, including five standout expressions: Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon, George T. Stagg Bourbon, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey, Sazerac 18-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, and William Larue Weller Bourbon.
Each of these whiskies comes with a rich history, distinct flavor profiles, and barrel-proof potency, making BTAC a favorite among collectors and whiskey lovers. The 2024 release also marks the 25th anniversary of Sazerac's acquisition of the Weller brand—a milestone that has contributed to the lineup’s continued success.
William Larue Weller Bourbon
The William Larue Weller is always a star of the Antique Collection, and the 2024 edition doesn’t disappoint. Aged for over 12 years, this uncut, unfiltered bourbon showcases Weller’s signature wheated mash bill. Bottled at 125.8 proof, this year's release offers a complex nose featuring notes of new leather, light pipe tobacco, and caramel, along with hints of marshmallow and ripe fruit.
On the palate, rich caramel and toffee dominate, followed by a long, creamy finish with oak and fruit. Fans will remember that last year’s Weller batch hit 133.6 proof, so the 2024 edition offers a slightly lower—but still potent—experience. The 2023 Weller was awarded “Best of Class” in the 2024 Global Whisky Challenge, and there’s no doubt this year’s version will continue to dazzle.
Read our review of William Larue Weller 2023 here.
Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon
The 2023 Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old release was the oldest in BTAC history, coming in at 19 years and three months. For 2024, we’re back to a more traditional 17-year and 4-month aging, but the complexity remains. Distilled in the spring of 2007 and bottled at 101 proof, Eagle Rare 17 continues to deliver robust flavors. The nose features oak and caramel, underscored by vanilla and a subtle pepper spice.
On the palate, you’ll find caramel sweetness balanced by rye spice, toasted oak, and tobacco, with a finish that combines pepper, leather, oak, and dried fruit. With such a stellar pedigree, this expression remains a top-tier option for those seeking a well-rounded, aged bourbon.
George T. Stagg Bourbon
One of the boldest offerings in the collection, the 2024 George T. Stagg comes in at a whopping 136.1 proof. This year's release spent over 15 years aging in Buffalo Trace’s warehouses, delivering the deep, rich character Stagg is known for. The nose offers a powerful aroma of aged wood, rich oak, and dark cherry, setting the stage for a complex palate that mixes spice, oak, caramel, and cinnamon.
The long, dry finish leaves a lasting impression, with layers of complexity that earned last year’s Stagg first place in the 2024 International Whisky Competition. Compared to the 2023 version, which hit 135 proof, this year’s Stagg offers a slight bump in intensity.
Read our review of George T. Stagg 2023 here.
Sazerac 18-Year-Old Rye Whiskey
The 2024 Sazerac 18-Year-Old Rye is aged for 18 years and five months, making it one of the most mature rye whiskeys on the market. This year’s edition presents a complex bouquet of oak, leather, plum, and rye grain, with earthy undertones.
The palate offers rye spice, smoke, dark cherry, and a hint of licorice, all balanced by a long, lingering finish with subtle hints of tobacco and charred oak. The 2023 Sazerac 18 took home a Gold “Outstanding” Medal at the 2024 International Wine and Spirits Competition, and the 2024 edition is poised to deliver a similarly exceptional experience.
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey
As always, the Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye is uncut and unfiltered, offering a bold, full-bodied rye whiskey experience. This year’s release clocks in at 127.2 proof, slightly higher than last year’s 124.9. Aged for over six years, the 2024 Handy is a powerhouse of freshly cracked black pepper and cinnamon on the nose, followed by spice and oak on the palate.
The finish is long and satisfying, with notes of cinnamon, pepper, and clove. The 2023 Handy earned a Double Gold at the Singapore World Spirits Competition, and this year’s edition should continue that tradition of excellence.
The Bottom Line
The Buffalo Trace Antique Collection continues to set the gold standard for American whiskey. With each release boasting unique characteristics—from the high-proof intensity of George T. Stagg to the balanced elegance of Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon—there’s something in this collection for every whiskey enthusiast. Whether you’re lucky enough to grab a bottle at retail or considering a pour at a premium price, the 2024 BTAC lineup is sure to impress.
