George T. Stagg Bourbon (Fall 2024)

I was incredibly happy internally when I got the chance to purchase this bottle, as well as a bottle of Pappy's 15 (a review will come later). I waited nearly a year before I felt it was time to give this bottle of GTS a more in-depth and accurate assessment. Reading the label and seeing the high alcohol content was quite intimidating. After some experimentation, I determined the best way to appreciate it, in my opinion, was to add several drops of highly filtered reverse osmosis water. This allowed me to focus more on the internal complexities without any harsh distractions. The aroma was of freshly torched creme brulee with a hint of cinnamon. A touch of orchard fruit also appeared. It took two sips to overcome the ethanol's initial impact. After that, distinct notes of tobacco and leather presented themselves first. Following that pleasant introduction, my palate experienced delightful flavors of vanilla pudding mixed with caramel and oak. Brief, unidentifiable fruity notes also made an appearance. The finish was lovely and long, concluding with an interesting aftertaste of grain and earthiness. This was an outstanding release from Buffalo Trace. I understand why it's produced in limited quantities. The buzz surrounding it is quite justified. If you can handle high alcohol content and afford the price, I strongly suggest trying a bottle at least once. You won't be disappointed.

Nose - This aroma is very fruity, with notes of apple, grape, bright blackberry, and some vanilla. There's also a slight breadiness, almost like charcuterie. Baked honey and vanilla accompany the fruit, enhancing the impression of a wine spread. Palate - I notice significantly more oak than in the '23 version. However, light custard, vanilla, tobacco, and cherry notes complement it beautifully. Barrel spice and black pepper are present in a very comfortable manner. Finish - The finish harmonizes perfectly with the palate. The transition is seamless and not as harsh as the proof might indicate. It moves from light barrel spice back to vanilla, then to cinnamon before fading into a pleasant, medium warmth.

Smell: Toasted walnuts and caramel drizzle over a campfire. Taste: The flavors hit you forcefully in the best way. The flavors are very pronounced compared to other high-end bourbons but possess pleasant complexity. It has sweet piloncillo with toasty wood (not necessarily oak, but hard to identify) and anise. Higher heat. The longer you savor it, it layers on peaches and cream. Finish: A prominent (though loud relative to other flavors) leathery campfire smoke. Long lingering with heat and star anise and allspice.

2024 GTS comparison Nose: Sweet caramel, vanilla, rye spice, powdered sugar Palate: Very dry, with raisin and fig, burnt brown sugar, molasses, and spearmint on the back end, along with lingering oak tannins. Not as intricate as the 2025, but well-balanced, full of flavor, and solid oak.

So much flavor! Cinnamon hits first and lasts. Tobacco notes. A bit of vanilla. Then chocolate-covered cherry appears, staying with the cinnamon.

Sadly, it's more buttery and less fruity compared to last year. Those two elements typically clash. It also had a warming sensation, which is unusual for me.