Stagg Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch 18

I had been looking forward to trying a Stagg Jr. for some time. While batch 18 no longer has the Jr. designation, I quickly acquired this bottle at a good price upon hearing that the Stagg Jr. line had been discontinued. I felt compelled to grab what might be my final opportunity to possess a bottle of Stagg (Jr.?). Wow, this liquid is 131 proof? I was anticipating an overwhelming alcohol burn, similar to rubbing alcohol. The aroma is unexpectedly mild and balanced, considering the high proof. Sweet, dark cherries are complemented by caramel and dark cocoa powder. Upon closer inspection, the ethanol heat from the proof is detectable, along with a hint of sweet, spicy cinnamon. Incredible cinnamon flavor on the palate! Yet, it's surprisingly pleasant. It's sweet and spicy, reminiscent of red hots candy. The cherry note from the nose reappears as the spice mellows. However, the spice remains prominent throughout the taste and finish. As the finish unfolds, tannic oak becomes the dominant element. A faint whisper of cherry persists, but the finish is primarily characterized by cinnamon and spice. Do all Stagg Jr. bottles present this intense heat? What is your preferred bottling? I'm uncertain if starting with the 18th batch provides a fair assessment of this bourbon, but I must say it's remarkably smooth for a 131 proof spirit. It's quite the opposite of Booker's, which I find excessively hot with ethanol to be enjoyable.

The aroma surprisingly lacks ethanol, despite its 131 proof. I detect oak, baking spices, and cherries. The palate is delightful. It has a thick, sweet cherry syrup consistency, balanced by oak and char, with an increasing spice and warmth. The finish is long and very satisfying. This Stagg batch seems to have some maturity, and I wouldn't be surprised if it's related to the unreleased 2021 GTS. So far, this is the best Stagg Jr. I've encountered, nearly on par with GTS.

Initial taste: It’s potent immediately, but the sensation lingers extensively on the tongue. After the alcohol scent dissipates somewhat, the aroma is delightful, featuring rich fruit and sweet wood notes. The alcohol content is noticeable, yet the flavors truly stand out. This particular production exhibits an added depth of richness and intricacy that elevates it once you adjust to the strength. Characteristic flavors of sweet fruit and oak are prominently presented. A fantastic serving.

Nose: A panoply of berries, stone fruit, and melon. A couple light earthy notes. Palate: Wave of grape flavor ice. Strawberries. French toast with icing. Luxurious. Finish: Cinnamon. Red hots. Baking spices and brown sugar. Still some fruit influence. Its awesome. It sometimes sucks when a bottle lives up to the hype, but these always do it. I’s grab this sub $200 and feel totally fine about it. It is a special bottle.

Initial notes of brown sugar and cherry emerge, followed by a robust woodiness and black coffee flavor. Consistent notes of dark brown sugar, molasses, baking spices, and caramel are present, but with a semi-sweet profile. The finish is quite warm and spicy, as expected, with pleasant charred wood undertones. Significant chocolate and coffee notes are found on the finish. The flavors are highly concentrated. An amazing bottle, certainly reserved for special occasions.

An intense Bourbon from Buffalo Trace Distillery. It begins with a harshness of bitter oak, vanilla, and brown sugar; develops with dark chocolate and rye spice; and concludes with a lengthy, rich finish of cherry, candy, corn, clove, and smoke.