I recently had the chance to try Stagg Jr. Batch 18, the latest release from Buffalo Trace Distillery. As a fan of barrel-proof bourbons, I was excited to see what this expression had to offer. Here are my thoughts on this highly anticipated release.
Stagg Jr. Batch 18 is a non-age-statement bourbon bottled at a whopping 131 proof. It’s the first release to drop the “Jr.” from its name, indicating that it may be closer in profile to its older sibling, George T. Stagg. With such a high proof, I was curious to see how the flavors and aromas would hold up to the alcohol content. After tasting it, I can say that it definitely packs a punch but still manages to deliver a complex and enjoyable experience.
Table of Contents
Stagg Jr. Bourbon Batch 18 Overview
Product History
Stagg Jr. is a barrel-proof bourbon produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery. It was formerly known as Stagg Jr., but the ‘Jr.’ has been dropped from the label since batch 17. The bourbon is released twice a year, in the spring and fall, and is bottled at barrel proof and without chill filtration. It is aged for between 7 and 9 years, younger than the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection’s George T. Stagg bourbon that it is named after.
Batch 18 is the latest release of Stagg Jr. bourbon. It was released in the fall of 2023 and has a high proof of 131. The bourbon is a departure from the typical Stagg Jr. flavor profile and offers something new, but is also less refined. Batch 18 is as brash as Stagg has ever been, and the inclusion of dry tannic oak and less sweetness makes it unique.
Price Range
Stagg Jr. Batch 18 is a premium bourbon with a price range of around $70 to $300. It is more expensive than some other bourbons in its category, but it is worth the price for those who appreciate a high-quality, barrel-proof bourbon. It is a limited release, so it may be difficult to find in some areas. However, it is worth seeking out for those who are fans of Stagg Jr. or are looking for a new and exciting bourbon to try.
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Tasting Notes
Aroma
Upon opening the bottle, I was greeted by a strong aroma of brown sugar, vanilla, and oak. As I poured the bourbon into my glass, the aroma intensified with notes of spices and dark fruit. The high proof of this batch was evident in the strong alcohol scent, but it did not overpower the other aromas.
Flavor
The first sip of Stagg Jr. Batch 18 revealed a burst of cinnamon and oak, followed by a subtle sweetness of dark chocolate and caramel. The spice and dark fruit notes detected in the aroma were also present in the flavor profile. The high proof of this batch brought a pleasant warmth to my throat, but it did not burn or overpower the other flavors.
Finish
The finish of Stagg Jr. Batch 18 was long and satisfying, with a lingering warmth and flavors of oak and cinnamon. The sweetness of vanilla and caramel also persisted, but it was balanced by the dry tannic oak note. The finish was not too dry or bitter, but rather smooth and enjoyable.
Rating
Overall, Stagg Jr. Batch 18 is a well-balanced barrel-proof bourbon with a complex flavor profile. It is not for the faint of heart, but rather for those who appreciate a bold and flavorful bourbon. I would rate this batch a solid 8.5 out of 10, as it exceeded my expectations and left me wanting more.
Mixing and Pairing
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Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing Stagg Jr. Bourbon Batch 18, I prefer to use mixers that complement its bold and complex flavors. One of my favorite mixers is ginger ale, which adds a touch of sweetness and spice to the bourbon. Another great mixer is cola, which brings out the vanilla and caramel notes in the bourbon. For a more refreshing option, I recommend using lemonade or iced tea, which provide a tart and tangy contrast to the bourbon’s rich flavors.
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Cocktail Suggestions
Stagg Jr. Bourbon Batch 18 is a versatile bourbon that can be used in a variety of cocktails. One of my favorite cocktails to make with this bourbon is an Old Fashioned. To make an Old Fashioned with Stagg Jr. Bourbon Batch 18, muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of bitters, add ice, and then pour in two ounces of the bourbon. Stir the mixture until the sugar is dissolved, and then garnish with an orange twist.
Another great cocktail to make with this bourbon is a Manhattan. To make a Manhattan with Stagg Jr. Bourbon Batch 18, combine two ounces of the bourbon with one ounce of sweet vermouth and a dash of bitters. Stir the mixture with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and then garnish with a cherry.
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Food Pairings
Stagg Jr. Bourbon Batch 18 pairs well with a variety of foods, including grilled meats, spicy dishes, and rich desserts. For a classic pairing, I recommend pairing this bourbon with a juicy steak or a hearty burger. The bold flavors of the bourbon complement the savory flavors of the meat, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
For a spicier option, try pairing this bourbon with a plate of spicy wings or a bowl of chili. The heat of the dish is balanced by the sweetness of the bourbon, creating a flavorful and enjoyable pairing. Finally, for a sweet and indulgent pairing, try pairing this bourbon with a slice of chocolate cake or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The rich and complex flavors of the bourbon are the perfect complement to the sweet and decadent flavors of the dessert.
Conclusion
I found Stagg Jr. Batch 18 to be a solid bourbon with a complex flavor profile. The nose was heavy on the caramel with a hint of raspberry, which was forward and direct. The taste was a mix of sweet and spicy notes, with hints of oak and brown sugar. The finish was long and smooth, with a lingering warmth that was pleasant.
One thing to note is that Stagg Jr. Batch 18 is a high proof bourbon, clocking in at 131 proof. While this may be a bit too strong for some, I found that the flavors held up well with a bit of water or ice.
In terms of value, Stagg Jr. Batch 18 is priced reasonably for a barrel proof bourbon. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, it certainly delivers in terms of flavor and complexity.
I would recommend Stagg Jr. Batch 18 to any bourbon lover looking for a unique and flavorful experience. Whether you prefer it neat or with a bit of water, this bourbon is sure to please.
Related Posts
If you enjoyed my review of Stagg Jr. Bourbon Batch 18, then you might want to check out some of my other bourbon reviews. Here are a few related posts that you might find interesting:
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