Stagg Barrel Proof Bourbon 23B

I'm generally cautious with Stagg. While it might not be a popular view, I've now sampled two different batches (18 and 22b) and found both to be too intense to rank among the very best. Coincidentally, I was offered a bottle of 23b at the very reasonable price of $99, which I happily accepted. Perhaps the third attempt will be the charm? Although the aroma does carry a slight intensity, similar to batch 22b, this particular batch doesn't seem nearly as hot as its 127.8 proof would suggest. Vanilla and toffee present gently and sweetly at first, gradually shifting towards bittersweet chocolate towards the middle of the aroma. A subtle hint of rye spice and some tannic oak contribute to a rather dry nose. The taste bursts with baking spices and a tingling sensation on the tongue. The proof is only noticeable as a warmth, not a sinus-clearing ethanol blast. Around the mid-palate, some of that dark chocolate blends with the baking spices, creating a flavor profile quite fitting for a holiday drink. There's a hint of rye bread character in the mid-palate, an interesting addition to the spicy undertones. The finish is distinctly dry and spicy. The intense baking spice from the taste never fully dissipates, but on the finish, some tannic oak joins the experience. The finish is actually quite lengthy and has an oily texture. While some might appreciate this long, drying finish, I'm not a major fan (I admit, I have a preference for sweeter bourbons). This doesn't feel quite as potent as the previous Stagg I tried, batch 22b. And based on the proof, it's not significantly different (130 vs 127.8), but I believe the delivery of that proof is key. This feels a bit more refined than 22b, but I still genuinely wish to try a Stagg that emphasizes less spice and more sweetness.

Nose: Cinnamon graham crackers. Dark brown sugar, vanilla, and caramel. Abundant sweet fruit preserves. Cherry, raspberry, and fig. A whisper of apricot and clove. Palate: The fruity preserves immediately hit the front of the mouth. As it progresses, substantial notes of brown sugar, deep caramel, and a hint of molasses spread beneath the tongue and into the jaw. This is also when the alcohol's impact is felt. It's not overpowering, but might surprise someone unaccustomed to higher proof spirits. As the sip moves across the back of the palate, notes of medicinal cherry and rich oak emerge. Finish: A long, lingering taste of medicinal cherry and oak. Summary: I understand the appeal of these bottles, but much like most Buffalo Trace products, it's just not my preference. It's excessively sweet for my full enjoyment. If you appreciate bold and intensely sweet pours, this is for you.

Glass: Glencairn, rested for 15 minutes. Color: Medium amber. Aroma: Jammy fruits with cherries, raisins, apricots. Some caramel and graham crackers. Palate: Cinnamon red hots, with some baking spice. Finish: Long duration with moderate warmth. Addition: The cinnamon gives way to clove and more baking spice. Overall: Rated 8/10 - A solid spirit for sipping. The fruity notes in the aroma do not carry through to the palate or finish. Acquired as part of a package with another spirit for $175, so the individual price is unknown.

Smells like caramel, wood, light leather, vanilla. Very sticky sweet, like dulce de leche with some chocolate. Taste: Vanilla, toasted leather, oak, rye spice. A little bit of bright pear, solid. Finish: Rye spice, cinnamon, barrel char. Some small sweet notes. Solid batch.

Perhaps this needs to rest to see if it develops further. It has some of the typical Stagg characteristics, but it doesn't quite come together for me like other batches. The notes of Dr Pepper and some oak are a bit off-putting right now.

Aroma: Cherry Cola, Dr Pepper, Grape Palate: Cinnamon, baking spice, dark cola Tastes very dark. A hot finish. Less fruity than other expressions of the brand.