Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 18, bottled at a powerful 131.0 Proof (65.5% ABV), is a monumental release from the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery. This batch is historically significant as it was the first to officially drop the "Jr." from its name, transitioning from "Stagg Jr." to simply "Stagg." Released in Summer 2022, it ushered in a new era for this highly coveted barrel-proof bourbon.
Key Characteristics:
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Historic Rebranding (No More "Jr."): Batch 18 is a landmark release as it marked the official name change from "Stagg Jr." to "Stagg." While the whiskey itself remained consistent with the high-quality, high-proof profile fans expected, the removal of "Jr." signified its maturity and place as a powerhouse bourbon in its own right, no longer just a younger sibling to George T. Stagg.
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Barrel Proof & Unfiltered: As with all Stagg releases, Batch 18 is bottled directly from the barrel, without any water added or chill-filtration. This method ensures that the bourbon retains its full natural flavors and robust character, delivering an unadulterated expression of the aged spirit.
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Buffalo Trace Mash Bill #1: Stagg is crafted using Buffalo Trace's proprietary Mash Bill #1, a low-rye recipe (speculated to be around 82% Corn, 8% Rye, 10% Barley). This same mash bill forms the base for other acclaimed bourbons like Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, and the older George T. Stagg, contributing a profile that balances rich corn sweetness with subtle spice and malty notes.
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Aged for Nearly a Decade: While Stagg does not carry a specific age statement on its label, it is widely understood to be aged for approximately 7 to 9 years. This extensive maturation period in new charred oak barrels allows the bourbon to develop significant depth, complexity, and a harmonious integration of flavors.
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Highly Allocated: Stagg remains one of the most in-demand bourbons on the market due to its exceptional quality, high proof, and limited availability. This historical batch is particularly sought after by collectors.
Tasting Notes (Based on Reviewer Consensus for Batch 18):
Batch 18 was generally very well-received, often praised for its depth and classic Stagg profile.
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Nose: Rich and inviting, with prominent notes of dark cherries, rich caramel, and vanilla. Many reviewers highlight baking spices (cinnamon, nutmeg), brown sugar, and robust oak. Some also detect hints of dark chocolate, molasses, and a subtle fruit medley. Despite the high proof, the ethanol is often described as well-integrated, allowing the complex aromas to shine.
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Palate: A bold, thick, and oily mouthfeel. Flavors burst with sweet cherry syrup, dark chocolate, and toasted oak. This is beautifully balanced by a building spice (cinnamon, red hots, black pepper, clove) and notes of molasses, brown sugar, and toasted nuts. Some also find grape flavor, strawberries, or French toast with icing, contributing to a decadent profile. It's often described as incredibly drinkable for its high proof.
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Finish: Long, warm, and very enjoyable. It typically lingers with notes of tannic oak, cinnamon, baking spices, dark cherries, and bittersweet chocolate. Hints of leather and a satisfying warmth persist, making for a memorable conclusion.
Overall Impression:
Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 18 is a truly iconic release, not just for its exceptional quality, but for its historical significance in the Stagg line. It delivered a powerful, complex, and remarkably drinkable high-proof experience that solidified the brand's reputation under its new, simplified name. Its rich balance of sweet, fruity, and spicy notes, coupled with a deep oak character, makes it a highly desirable pour for seasoned bourbon enthusiasts and collectors. It is best savored neat or with a minimal amount of water to fully appreciate its layers of flavor.
