I went ahead and bought a 750mL of Eagle Rare on Monday and was quite impressed with it. I have had it before but was shooting it and didn't really get the full effect. This time around I definitely enjoyed it. I noticed it had a lot of flavor but couldn't really place what it was. A buddy of mine who loves this stuff mentioned that there were floral undertones, so possibly that's what I was tasting.
I followed this up yesterday with a cheaper bottle. Decided to go with the Canadian Club 12 year
http://www.hitimewine.net/CANADIAN-C...-12YR-750.html. I was unsure whether the price difference would matter that much as I am new to all of this and can't place most of the flavors yet anyway so I was surprised at how much it did. The Canadian Club had very little flavor (almost like water at the beginning) and had a bit of a smokey finish that tasted a bit wood-like. I wouldn't buy again but have about half the bottle left and look forward to having some after work to wind down.
So far, I am really enjoying trying the different whiskies. I've noticed that I am not well versed in realizing exactly what it is I am tasting but am able to tell the general idea (i.e. smokey, fruity, etc...). I assume that is relative to my experience but am not sure. My rankings so far go: Maker's Mark>Eagle Rare>Buffalo Trace. I can't wait to purchase some of the more expensive bottles in the future to see what the rage is about. Thanks for the brief help given above and it should also be added that I am really enjoying reading through this thread.
~JB