Whiskey hunting is becoming quite the hobby. Finding that unknown craft distiller before anyone else does or a rare bottle of a more known brand at an out of the way liquor store off the highway reminds me a lot of the trading cards and comic books of my childhood. And Buffalo Trace Distillery's release of its 2017 Antique Collection is a kin to seeing the USA Basketball team cards lined up together.

This year's collection will once again feature five limited-release whiskeys of various ages, recipes and proofs from George T. Stagg, William Larue Weller, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye, Eagle Rare and Sazerac Rye.

“The team had another great year with the Antique Collection," said Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley via a statement. "From distillation, to barrel selection, to bottling, this year’s collection showed very well. I was particularly excited about the William Larue Weller with its extra richness, and the Eagle Rare 17 seemed more rounded and full of flavor. None of these disappointed.”

The strongest of this year's collection is the Stagg at 129.2 proof, which contains bourbons from 309 barrels filled in the spring of 2002.

The 2017 Antique Collection whiskeys will retail for $90 per bottle and be available in limited quantities next month, so you may want to call your favorite stores now.