Stagg Barrel Proof Bourbon 23C

Is it just me, or has there been more Stagg released in 2023 than in prior years? This has led to Stagg being surprisingly available, though still not as rare as previously thought. At least in my region, this has resulted in Stagg being found at the $150-$199 price range. So when I saw a bottle of 23c for $150, I didn't hesitate. The nose on 23c seems less intense than I'm accustomed to with Stagg, but that's relative. If you're not used to smelling barrel-proof bourbons, Stagg will always seem like liquid fire. The nose presents vanilla with tannic, slightly toasty oak alongside overripe cherries, all wrapped in dry leather. There's some ethanol heat, but it's not overwhelming. A touch of crème brûlée's sticky sweetness hits the back of your nose as you pull the glass away. Spice boldly opens the taste. Tongue-tingling pepper and cinnamon, mixed with the proof, remind you that you're drinking something just over 125 proof. As the spice fades slightly, hints of salted caramel, chocolate, and vanilla appear mid-palate but quickly give way to a much drier finish, where the tannic oak from the nose reappears with some leather. The spice persists throughout the taste, only truly dissipating as you move into the finish. Surprisingly, the finish on 23c is somewhat short, not as viscous as other barrel-proof offerings, and dare I say, a bit simple? The spice slowly leaves your tongue, leaving behind the tannic oak and leather from the finish's drier section. The mouthfeel is slightly powdery, and while that's subjective, I personally prefer a more oily mouthfeel on the finish. The dryness lingers until the very end. You know, I actually think Stagg 23b is the better overall of the two. However, like most Stagg releases, it's worth trying! With more Stagg entering the market, availability is a bit broader, so why not take advantage and seek it out at your local whiskey bar for a taste? I probably wouldn't commit to buying a bottle unless you're really into a spicy dryness.

The nose immediately brings dark fruits and abundant caramel, followed by vanilla and subtle rye notes. On previous occasions with Stagg, rye wasn't as prominent; this time, it's more noticeable. As it sits, hints of red fruits like raspberry and apple cinnamon emerge. The palate delivers big, bold flavors, as anticipated. Intense caramel and vanilla hit upfront, accompanied by a powerful alcohol presence. That strong Kentucky embrace is quite enjoyable. The rye spice from the nose transitions into a light bubblegum note on the palate. Overall, it's a solid choice if acquired near MSRP, but not worth the inflated prices often seen.

Nose: Deep molasses, vanilla, oak, with a whisper of fruit Palate: Vanilla, grape soda, spices for baking Finish: Moderate to extended, a lingering finish that blends the sweet and spicy notes This bourbon understands its purpose and executes it well. As Buffalo Trace's take on a barrel-proof bourbon, it enhances the standard character appropriately. However, does it offer anything beyond BT at maximum volume? Not really. Still, credit is due that Buffalo Trace has perfected their signature profile, and it's evident here.

Late bottle pour, neat, capped and rested for 15 minutes. Nose: molasses, leather, astringency, a fig/fruitcake rich sweetness. Palate: vanilla and nutmeg, feels hot with the high alcohol %. Finish: long and fiery, caramel and creamy. Added water, capped and rested another 15 minutes. Nose: sea salt and bitterness emerged. Palate: oddly enough felt dry even while in the mouth. Finish: dry and full, much less burn.

Color: Amber with appealing legs! Nose: Honestly, it smells like a traditional bourbon. If you get too close, there's considerable heat. I detect a blend of caramel and vanilla. It almost smells like a pie, but I can't quite identify it. Taste: Tastes similar to the nose. Just a very solid, traditional bourbon. Finish?: Short to medium length finish. Water?: Enjoyable without water. The heat isn't overwhelming.

It's still Stagg, so a great bottle for $60. I preferred the texture and mouthfeel of the 23B slightly more. This 23C batch seems a bit less mature and well-rounded in comparison.