Stagg Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch 18

First impressions: It’s hot right off of the bat, but it lasts forever on the palate. Once the ethanol has evaporated some, the nose is quite enjoyable (rich fruits and sweet oak). The proof is felt but the flavors really pop. This batch has an extra layer of richness and complexity that takes this to another level once you get accustomed to the proof. Classic BT flavors of sweet fruits and oak on full display. Amazing pour

The nose is surprisingly absent of ethanol, being 131 proof. I get oak, baking spices, and cherries. On the palate it's a dream. It's thick like a sweet cherry syrup, balanced by oak and char, with a building spice and warmth. The finish is long and very enjoyable. This stagg batch has some age to it, and it wouldn't surprise me if it ended up being the 2021 GTS that wasn't released. So far, this is the best stagg jr I've ever had, it is almost comparable to GTS.