Stagg Jr Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch 16

This was obtained from a special annual whiskey release. Typically, these releases feature the standard Buffalo Trace selections, with Pappy being an exception. These notifications arrive via email, and one has mere seconds to click the link to access the offerings and pricing; therefore, acquiring anything is largely a matter of luck. After winning a chance to purchase a Col E H Taylor 4 Grain at MSRP in 2018 via a lottery, I haven't been able to secure much from these non-lottery online releases, which disappear almost instantly. I did manage to get two bottles of Weller Special Reserve at one point, but nothing else. I haven't opened this bottle yet, but I have tried Batch 16 elsewhere, and like all Staggs, the proof is evident. I concur with those who state that despite its high proof, it doesn't scorch the throat like many other high-proof bourbons. In my opinion, this is characteristic of a great bourbon. Achieving smoothness with a high proof is often challenging in a finished product directly from the barrel. I am very satisfied. I prefer this over ECBP and find it approaches the enjoyment of EC 18yr, although the EC18 is exceptional. Few whiskeys capture the strength and taste of wood barrel as effectively. Perhaps part of the enjoyment stems from the satisfaction of actually possessing a bottle. LOL. The price was $54.99 at the state store, but it's unreasonably priced elsewhere considering its production.

The nose is sharp and fruity, with apple, berry, raisin, date, and plum all coated in vanilla icing. Additional notes include caramel, cinnamon, and oak. It strongly resembles Buffalo Trace with its fruit, vanilla, and oak combination. The ethanol presence is remarkably low for its proof. The palate is slightly less sweet than the nose suggests, but still delivers fruit with a dark character, featuring blackberry, fig, black cherry, concord grape, and black currant. Vanilla and caramel from the nose form a foundation for the fruits. The flavors are incredibly vibrant. The finish brings considerable heat along with pomegranate, fresh oak, black pepper, cherry, cinnamon, leather, and tobacco. A blackberry note from the palate persists throughout the finish, which was enjoyable. The mouthfeel is where this one falls a bit short; it's medium-bodied and while not exactly grainy, it leans towards being a little sharp. A superior bourbon with only minor drawbacks, it's a superb example of the Buffalo Trace profile amplified significantly, which might not suit everyone's taste, but given the popularity of BT products, it's often preferred. I acquired this bottle at its original retail price of $59.99 back in 2021, a price that seems unbelievable in today's market. Considering the significant price increase to $150+ on the secondary market, rating it at its original price point three years later feels misleading, so I'm setting price aside entirely for my evaluation. 4.5 out of 5.

I've kept this treasure for a considerable period, awaiting the opportune moment to open it. A significant family celebration provided that occasion. However, having consumed several beverages beforehand, I opted to delay my review. Today is the day! Firstly, I was astonished by its smoothness, especially given its undiluted nature. This allowed me to appreciate its internal complexities. The aromas offered a pleasing combination of cinnamon apples, brown sugar, and vanilla bean. Initial sips presented a blend of allspice, rye, and oak. Later, I detected notes of chocolate, peach, and hints of tobacco and molasses. These three elements lingered on the delightful, extended finish, with oak and rye occasionally reappearing. I now comprehend why acquiring these is so challenging. Absolutely outstanding from beginning to end! I will treasure every serving from this point forward.

5280 club with a daveco pick 133.4 proof, glencairn, deep copper color Instaggnito sticker Sweet vanilla, orange, and spice on the nose. More dry than sweet, though some brown sugar appears after the first sip. Notes of cinnamon and clove, baking spice, raisin and waffle, followed by subtle syrup. Subtle char on the exhale, but a long dry finish where some orange and chocolate interact in the senses. Good oak tannins linger with the vanilla Considering the proof, this drinks very well balanced. I'm sure a few drops of water will alter the profile later.

Finally opened this bottle after savoring batch 15. The nose has abundant brown sugar, cherries, and the distinct barrel char. On the palate, I found it smoother than batch 15. The noticeable heat is still present but is mellow, with vanilla, cherries, and smokiness coming through. The finish is long and develops. I think I prefer this one to batch 15; now I just need to find the others!

It’s good, but I'm not sure it's my absolute favorite. I don't detect many sweet notes, but rather deeper ones. Like dark chocolate, perhaps a hint of nut - I'm imagining an almond coated in cacao. I actually ate one, and it paired well with this. It's a good one, just perhaps a little disappointing given the name.