Stagg Jr Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch 13

The aroma reveals notes of butterscotch, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, walnut, leather, cherry, bubble gum, floral hints, black pepper, marshmallow, chocolate, graham cracker, and rich oak, accompanied by a moderate to high ethanol burn. The taste presents rich caramel, creme brûlée, cinnamon, dark chocolate, walnut, cherry, floral notes, orange, leather, black pepper, spearmint, graham cracker, allspice, marshmallow, and toasted oak, with a moderate to high alcohol bite. The finish is of medium length, featuring caramel, cherry, baking spice, and toasted oak flavors. This is a fine example from Buffalo Trace, found locally for $90, significantly above MSRP but far below current online prices. Despite the premium, it seemed like a good opportunity. The nose offers classic Buffalo Trace aromas, but deeper and richer than other products I've tried, though I haven't sampled the more mature offerings. I appreciate s'mores notes in whiskies, and this has them. The palate delivers waves of delicious caramel, cherry, and oak, with subtle nuttiness and noticeable mintiness. The finish is quite good, not overly long, with lingering flavors that don't turn sour or bitter. Initially, after opening a year ago, it was intensely fiery, almost painfully so. Time has significantly mellowed it, revealing nuances previously masked by the alcohol. It's great, nearly outstanding, but slightly too thin and bright. A year ago, it would have scored lower. It's worth the $90 paid, but it took time to appreciate.

I typically don't care for this brand, as their spirits often disappoint me, and I can't grasp the frenzy for their Eagle Rare or Blanton's. Let's see if this one lives up to the hype. The aroma offers toasted marshmallow, a touch of walnut bitterness, milk chocolate, spearmint, fried banana, cherries, cinnamon, vanilla, caramel, old leather, and polished mahogany. The taste mirrors the nose with a thick, rich caramel mouthfeel, butterscotch, cherry cola, fried banana, spearmint, apricot, walnuts, milk chocolate, old leather, and polished mahogany, finishing with mild oak spice and a lingering blend of caramel, walnut, leather, and cherry. Okay, I understand now; for less than sixty dollars, this is an astonishingly good whiskey with virtually no alcohol burn despite its high proof. It's no wonder people queue for these. I'd enthusiastically join a Black Friday-style rush for a new Viking-themed Highland Park to embrace my inner warrior and battle triumphantly through the throng for a Stagg Jr. Thankfully, no injuries were sustained during this tasting, thanks to a sample from a friend.

The aroma has notes of cherries and a dark, sweet syrup, reminiscent of cherry cola. Vanilla and a touch of apple acidity are present. There are also hints of grape bubble gum. Upon closer inspection, spearmint and cinnamon candy (like red hots) can be detected as undertones, with spearmint more prominent near the top and cinnamon candy closer to the liquid. The cinnamon candy flavor carries to the palate, where black pepper spice builds gradually, peaking just before the finish. Sweet cherries and leather are also noticeable, along with flavors resembling grape bubble gum or grape soda. The finish is dry, with cinnamon, leather, and oak notes. There's a slight 'Kentucky hug,' but less pronounced than in a previous batch. My lips are left pleasantly tingly and slightly numb. My only criticism is the lack of the bold 'Kentucky hug' experienced with batch 14; the finish of batch 13 leaves a little to be desired in comparison. Nevertheless, it remains an excellent whiskey and is highly recommended.

Nose: A bold aroma hits immediately with lovely toffee and crème brûlée, complemented by orange zest, oak, and spice. Palate: Wonderful flavor with creamy vanilla and caramel that transitions into strong oak spice, with subtle cherry and citrus notes in the middle. Finish: A long, lingering sensation on the tongue with hazelnut and oak notes that provide a satisfying warmth. Mouthfeel: Slightly drying, with a proof that tingles the lips and tongue. This whiskey is a definite must-have, standing out as one of the top bourbons available, even comparable to its older sibling, George T. Stagg. It delivers impressive flavors with its high proof without being excessively harsh. Any batch of this whiskey is likely a winner, provided you can find it. Treat yourself to some; you won't be disappointed.

A dynamic nose that truly captures your attention, signaling an exceptional experience ahead. Aromas of vanilla, cherry, almond, leather, brown sugar, and butterscotch are present. As it rests, notes of an old, musty used bookstore and charred oak become more apparent. A pervasive warmth is felt throughout the mouth and throat, yet it never becomes overpowering. There's a superb balance between spice and sweetness. The vanilla, brown sugar, and butterscotch noted on the nose are also present. Orange and clove appear after the initial sweet bakery notes subside. Mint and a hint of cherry cola linger on the extended finish. It leaves my mouth feeling quite dry. The mouthfeel is pleasant and supple, but at best medium-plus. It took me a few months to get around to reviewing this for some reason. It didn't immediately impress me on the first few pours, and I wanted to allow it some time. It truly developed and revealed its full character. Quite enjoyable.

The nose has notes of smoke, oak, caramel, and possibly leather or tobacco, making for a very intriguing and complex aroma. It's clearly barrel proof but not excessively harsh. The taste is buttery caramel and sweet, with considerable complexity. A slight warmth emerges, but the flavor persists through the finish and remains enjoyable throughout. Hints of orange or cherry might also be present in the finish. Adding a couple of drops of water opened it up, revealing new nuances with each sip. This is an exceptional bourbon in my opinion.