George T. Stagg Bourbon (Fall 2022)

This might be the easiest 5.00 score ever. It has no flaws, just powerful cask strength bourbon executed perfectly. The nose: Starts with a warm, comforting sweetness like candy layered over oak, dark fruits, and some dried tobacco. It becomes very concentrated once the ethanol dissipates. On the palate: It drinks as if it were around 120 proof. It's very syrupy, and the finish extends long after the sip. It's remarkably balanced yet complex. A spectacular pour, truly among the best available. Overall: I suggest pouring a bit more than usual if you have the time to savor it. This bourbon continuously evolved as I drank it. Take your time with it, and you'll experience bourbon paradise.

I'm unsure of the year I tried at the bar, as I neglected to ask. It's likely the most integrated bourbon I've ever had, and very approachable given its proof (120-130). It has prominent oak, vanilla, dark cherry, and dark berry notes. While the flavor profile was relatively simple, the flavors arrived in stages, creating a very long finish. It's not the most complex, but it's the most cohesive bourbon I've encountered, with absolutely no bitterness or dryness from oak tannins, which I found most impressive. It's a definite buy at $100 or even slightly more, but secondary market prices are unreasonable.

George T. Stagg 2022 138.7 Proof Glass: Glencairn, rested 15 minutes. Color: Deep amber, similar to maple syrup. Nose: Notes of apricot, raisin, and other fruits mingle with sweet and floral undertones. Palate: Flavors of cinnamon and clove are complemented by oak and leather. Finish: A very long duration with moderate warmth. Splash: A few drops temper the cinnamon's intensity, allowing the clove to become more prominent. Overall: 9.5/10 - This is truly exceptional, from its fruity, floral aroma to the classic palate notes. The nearly hazardous proof is noticeable only in the persistent finish. This is a dram meant for savoring.

Despite being 139 proof, it drinks like a mellow 110 proof. It's truly remarkable. The nose offers caramel and light vanilla. Stagg Jr. doesn't compare, being 10 points lower in proof yet drinking hotter. This is about as good as bourbon gets. If you can find it at a sensible price, buy it. Believe me, it's that good. I was fortunate to get a 2 oz pour for $37 and was thrilled. I ended up having two. I have no complaints about this. It's exactly what a bourbon ought to be. I'd love to do a blind tasting to ensure no bias was present, however

Amazing, the anticipation is justified. This year is fantastic. It hits you with profound dark oaky caramel. It's smooth, rich, and strong, everything a whiskey lover seeking high proof desires. Take note, Coy and EHTBP!

Nose - Vanilla, subtle notes of vanilla custard. Whipped cream and Cool Whip. The aroma is perfect. Palate - Echoes the nose. A powerful yet gentle vanilla sensation. Hints of classic oak and leather. Delicate notes of Eagle Rare apple. The ideal bourbon. Finish - Smooth and refined as it goes down. It concludes with exceptional elegance and beauty.