Read in the magazine (rotate your device for a better reading experience):
Name: Stagg Junior Batch #2.
Company: Sazerac Company Inc.
Distillation: Buffalo Trace Distillery.
Classification: Straight Bourbon.
Release: August 2013.
ABV: 64.35% (128.35 proof).
Age: NAS (attributed a minimum of 7 years).
Mashbill: Unknown.
Color: Burnt amber.
The notes on the bottle indicate that the bourbon is aged for “almost a decade,” although in 2017, Buffalo Trace confirmed it to be 7 years. This is a younger version of the widely acclaimed George T. Stagg, with a different flavor profile as it shares the same mashbill, but unlike the original, the distillery is not as precise with barrel locations and—obviously—does not age it as long.
George T. Stagg is a bourbon on the top five lists for many enthusiasts and is part of the annual release of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC). Stagg Jr. appeared in 2013 and has continued with small batches at varying alcohol levels, always under the concept of Cask Strength. With the most recent release, Batch number 18, the designation “Jr” has been removed from the label, now simply called Stagg.
Nose: At first impression, there is a strong perception of alcohol, given its Cask Strength characteristic, but after a few minutes, notes of raisins, caramel, chocolate, and citrus emerge, which linger throughout the appreciation of the spirit as it interacts with the environment.
Palate: Very intense. Subtle notes of raisins and citrus mix everywhere but are somewhat overshadowed by the intensity of the alcohol. Unlike other high-end bourbons with high alcohol content, where we appreciate a spiced palate without intensity, this case is quite the opposite: a lot of intensity with a low range of spices, making it appear much less complex than it really is.
Finish: A strong dose of pepper dominates the initial appreciation, almost like accidentally biting into a peppercorn, and after this peak of spiciness, the intensity lingers a bit. Paradoxically, this intensity is pleasant once the initial excess is overcome, providing a sweet and lasting finish rounded out with elements of burnt brown sugar, caramel, and dark chocolate.
Commentary: While we are seeing more labels presenting uncut bourbon and other whiskies, Stagg Jr. remains exceptional and has become my favorite among the wide existing offerings. As it hits the market before the annual release of George T. Stagg, each new batch of Stagg Jr. serves as a prelude to what its older brother will be. With a unique flavor profile and slight differences each time, only consumer appreciation will determine which of its versions reaches a higher level.
