Rare Hare 17 Year Old 1953 Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Uncorking History: The Rare Hare Bourbon 17 Year Old 1953 Straight Bourbon Whiskey

At Rare Finds Liquor Store, our mission is to bring you the most extraordinary and elusive spirits from around the world. We specialize in bottles that are more than just a drink; they are a piece of history. Today, we are proud to present a true titan of American whiskey, a bottle that stands as a monument to craftsmanship and patience: the Rare Hare 17 Year Old 1953 Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

This isn’t just another bourbon whiskey; it is a rare glimpse into a bygone era of distillation, a rare bourbon that deserves a place in the most discerning collections.

A Legend in a Bottle: What is Rare Hare Bourbon?

The Rare Hare bourbon story is one of serendipity and preservation. Distilled in 1953 at a renowned Kentucky distillery, this whiskey was laid down in new, charred American oak barrels—as all true straight bourbon whiskey must be—and then, seemingly, forgotten. While the world moved on, this small batch bourbon slumbered in a quiet warehouse, slowly evolving through 17 Kentucky summers and winters.

This natural aging process, known as the “angel’s share,” saw a significant portion of the whiskey evaporate over the decades, concentrating the remaining liquid into something profoundly rich and complex. It was only rediscovered and bottled decades later, making every drop of this Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey incredibly precious. When you buy a bottle of Rare Hare Bourbon, you are not just buying bourbon online; you are acquiring a preserved moment in time.

Tasting Notes: A Journey Through Time

Pouring a glass of this straight Kentucky bourbon whiskey is an event. Its appearance is a deep, mesmerizing mahogany, hinting at the decades spent in wood.

• On the Nose: The aroma is immediately captivating and classic of an aged American Kentucky whiskey. Think rich, old leather-bound books, dark cherries, and toasted walnuts. Beneath that lies a wave of vanilla bean, caramelized sugar, and a touch of oak that is integrated and never overpowering.

• On the Palate: The first sip is a revelation. The mouthfeel is remarkably velvety, delivering flavors of baked apple, dark honey, and baking spices like cinnamon and clove. The extended contact with the oak has imparted deep notes of char and sweet tobacco, creating a balance that only time can achieve. This is the hallmark of a well-aged single barrel bourbon—a singular, uncompromised profile.

• The Finish: The finish is eternally long, warm, and dignified. It leaves behind a lingering sweetness and a complex spice that invites quiet contemplation. It’s a finish that truly separates legendary bourbon whiskey brands from the rest.

What Makes This a “Straight Bourbon”?

For those wondering about bourbon vs whiskey, here’s a quick primer. All bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon. To be labeled a straight bourbon, a spirit must meet strict legal criteria:

1. Made in the USA (though famously from Kentucky).

2. Mash bill of at least 51% corn.

3. Aged in new, charred oak barrels.

4. Distilled to no more than 160 proof and entered into the barrel for aging at no more than 125 proof.

5. Bottled at 80 proof or higher.

6. Aged for a minimum of two years (and if aged under four years, an age statement must be present).

The Rare Hare 17 Year Old not only meets but exceeds these standards, earning its title as a premier Kentucky straight bourbon. Its 17-year age statement is a badge of honor, signifying a depth of character rarely found in modern spirits.

What Makes Rare Hare 17-Year-Old Special?

The Rare Hare 17-Year-Old 1953 Straight Bourbon Whiskey is not just another bourbon whiskey brand; it is a product of craftsmanship that has endured decades of refinement. The time spent in the barrel has given this bourbon a maturity that is rare to find in modern-day offerings. When it comes to bourbon whiskey, aging for 17 years is not the norm, making this an extraordinary find.

Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey

What sets Rare Hare Bourbon apart from others is its small-batch production. Unlike mass-produced straight bourbon whiskey, small-batch bourbons are typically produced in limited quantities, ensuring a higher level of quality and attention to detail. Each batch of Rare Hare is carefully crafted to maintain its exceptional characteristics. When you choose a bottle of Rare Hare, you’re experiencing a premium quality bourbon that many enthusiasts seek but few get to enjoy.

Straight Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey

To be called Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, the product must meet stringent guidelines, ensuring that the whiskey is distilled and aged in Kentucky for a minimum of two years. Rare Hare 17-Year-Old 1953 Bourbon adheres to these guidelines, guaranteeing authenticity and exceptional quality. Its rich amber color and smooth finish are the result of the craftsmanship and dedication to maintaining the integrity of Kentucky’s distilling tradition.

The Role of the Barrel in Flavor Development

The aging process plays a critical role in developing the deep, rich flavors of Kentucky straight bourbon. The charred oak barrels used to age this straight bourbon give the whiskey its distinctive vanilla, caramel, and wood notes. Over time, the liquid interacts with the wood, picking up additional flavors and smoothing out harsh edges.

For a bourbon like Rare Hare 17-Year-Old, the prolonged aging process leads to a whiskey that is not only rich in flavor but also has a smooth, refined finish. This makes it ideal for sipping neat or enjoying on the rocks.

What Is the Difference Between Bourbon and Whiskey?

When shopping for American whiskey or exploring the world of bourbon whiskey, it’s important to understand the key differences between bourbon and whiskey. All bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon. To be considered bourbon, the spirit must be made from at least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak barrels, and distilled in the United States. Straight bourbon whiskey, such as Rare Hare 17-Year-Old, must be aged for at least two years to meet the straight bourbon classification.

While whiskey can be made from various grains like barley, rye, and corn, bourbon is distinctly tied to its Kentucky roots and specific distillation process.

Why Choose Small Batch Bourbon?

Bourbon whiskey small batch, like Rare Hare 17-Year-Old, are prized by collectors and connoisseurs for their unique qualities. These bourbons are often made in limited quantities, giving them a more artisanal quality compared to mass-produced bourbon whiskey. The smaller batch sizes allow for greater attention to detail in the production process, from selecting the finest grains to the aging and bottling processes.

If you’re looking for something special, Rare Hare Bourbon offers an unparalleled taste experience that is hard to replicate. As one of the best barrel bourbon batches, it stands as a true testament to the skill and artistry behind small-batch production.

How to Acquire This Piece of Whiskey History

Finding bourbon for sale near me that includes a bottle of this caliber is nearly impossible. The rarity and historical significance of the Rare Hare 17 Year Old mean it is typically found only through specialized retailers like us. At Rare Finds Liquor Store, we have secured a very limited allocation of this legendary American whiskey Kentucky.

If you are looking to buy bourbon online that will form the crown jewel of your collection, you have found the best place to buy bourbon online. Our process is designed for security and discretion, ensuring your investment arrives safely at your doorstep.

To buy bourbon whiskey online of this stature is to participate in the preservation of whiskey heritage. It’s perfect for the most special of occasions—a landmark birthday, an anniversary, or as the ultimate gift for the bourbon aficionado who has everything.

The Verdict: Is the Rare Hare 17 Year Old Right For You?

This bourbon is not an everyday sipper, nor is it meant to be. It is a whiskey for reflection, for celebration, and for education. It is a benchmark against which other aged straight bourbon whiskey can be measured.

Whether you are a seasoned collector looking for a definitive rare bourbon or a passionate enthusiast wanting to experience a profound piece of American Kentucky whiskey history, the Rare Hare 17 Year Old 1953 delivers an unforgettable experience.

Ready to own a legend?

Explore our curated selection of the world’s finest spirits at Rare Finds Liquor Store. We make it simple and secure to buy bourbon online, including unparalleled treasures like this Rare Hare 17 Year Old. Visit our bourbon for sale collection today and discover why we are the trusted source for collectors and connoisseurs worldwide.

Browse our exclusive bourbon whiskey collection and secure your piece of history. Limited quantities are available.