Stagg Jr Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch 13

“Fiery syrup” was the first tasting note from my friend as he took a sip of a blind advent calendar taste. And that’s the first impression without any dilution. But a little water opens this up to the bouquet of classic bourbon flavors hiding beneath the 130 proof veneer. Cinnamon red hots; spicy rye; vanilla; brown sugar. This is almost 1.5 bottles of fine bourbon disguises in a single bottle.

I didn't have time to make tasting notes upon my first pour of Stagg jr batch 14, but my quick take is that it's quite good. I was surprised by how sweet this barrel proof bourbon was. It's sweet maple syrup with a warm finish that will really heat you up. I'm not sure if this will supplant Rare Breed as my favorite barrel proof, but it's damn good. I can't wait for my next pour of Stagg Jr.

First time review. Enjoying a glass neat from a buddy. Nose - vanilla overload on the nose. There is a bit of mint and baking spices. Taste - heat on the tongue at first as expected from the proof. A ton of vanilla, Smokey oak char, and a little bit of cinnamon. Very full very balanced sweet with heat. Overall - great offering from Buffalo trace. Very well balanced which is what you want in a bourbon. Surprisingly not much heat at all but just enough to let you know it’s there.

Tobacco, apples, spice, cinnamon, vanilla, and heat on the nose. Mouth coating, cinnamon, vanilla, dark cherry flavors with a long spicy finish. Love it!