Stagg Jr. Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 23B, bottled at a robust 127.8 Proof (63.9% ABV), is a highly anticipated and notoriously allocated release from the venerable Buffalo Trace Distillery. This particular batch was the second Stagg release of 2023, hitting shelves in Fall 2023.
Key Characteristics:
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Barrel Proof & Unfiltered: Stagg is celebrated for being bottled directly from the barrel, without any water added or chill-filtration. This commitment to an unadulterated presentation ensures a robust, intense, and full-bodied bourbon experience that showcases the liquid's natural character.
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Buffalo Trace Mash Bill #1: While the precise proportions are proprietary, Stagg utilizes Buffalo Trace's renowned low-rye mash bill, referred to as Mash Bill #1 (speculated to be around 82% Corn, 8% Rye, 10% Barley). This mash bill also forms the base for other iconic Buffalo Trace bourbons like Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare, and the older George T. Stagg. This recipe typically yields a profile that balances rich corn sweetness with subtle rye spice and malty notes.
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Aged for Nearly a Decade: Though Stagg does not carry a specific age statement on the label, it is generally understood to be aged for approximately 7 to 9 years. This extended maturation period in 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 sought-after bourbons globally due to its exceptional quality, high proof, and limited availability. Each new batch release is a major event for bourbon enthusiasts and collectors, often selling out quickly.
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Fall 2023 Release: Batch 23B was the second Stagg release for the 2023 calendar year, following 23A and preceding 23C.
Tasting Notes (Based on Reviewer Consensus for Batch 23B):
While Stagg bourbons are known for their intensity and a powerful balance of rich sweetness with a spicy kick, Batch 23B has received varied but positive reviews.
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Nose: Often described as having jammy fruit notes, particularly cherry, raspberry, and fig, with hints of apricot and clove. Other aromas include caramel, vanilla, graham crackers, sweet corn syrup, and sometimes a touch of "Dr. Pepper" or "cherry cola." Some also detect a slightly sweet and delightful ethanol presence.
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Palate: Bold and intense, with a full and often viscous mouthfeel. Flavors commonly include rich caramel, brown sugar, and molasses, complemented by pronounced baking spices (cinnamon, clove, nutmeg). Notes of dark fruit (brandied maraschino cherries, grape jelly, fig), toasted hazelnuts, old oak, and a hint of chocolate or Tootsie Roll are frequently found. Despite the high proof, many reviewers noted it drinks "below its proof," being surprisingly approachable and smooth.
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Finish: Long, lingering, and complex. It typically leaves notes of medicinal cherry, rich oak, spiced caramel, and a sweet, almost powdered jelly-filled donut-like quality with raspberry tones. Some also detect leather-like notes, a slight medicinal bite, and a warmth that is present but not overwhelming.
Overall Impression:
Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 23B continues the brand's tradition of delivering exceptional, high-proof, and uncut bourbon. It offers a powerful and complex drinking experience that is a true testament to Buffalo Trace's distilling prowess. While some reviews noted variations in its sweetness and spiciness compared to other batches, it generally delivers the robust character and intense flavors that Stagg is known for. Its consistent quality and extreme scarcity make it a highly coveted addition to any bourbon collection, best savored neat or with a minimal amount of water to unlock its full depth.
