With so many batches of Stagg Jr. released over the years, it can be tough to know which ones are worth seeking out. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 Stagg Jr. batches. From the smooth and complex to the fiery and intense, these batches represent the best of what Stagg Jr. has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey drinker or just starting to explore the world of barrel-proof bourbons, there’s sure to be a batch on this list that will pique your interest. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the top 10 Stagg Jr. batches ranked.
Table of Contents
What is Stagg Jr.?
If you’re a whiskey enthusiast, you might have heard of Stagg Jr., a younger version of the iconic bourbon, George T. Stagg. In this section, we will provide you with a brief overview of Stagg Jr., its legacy, and how it compares to George T. Stagg.
The Legacy of Stagg Jr.
Stagg Jr. is a barrel-proof bourbon whiskey produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery. It was first introduced in 2013 as a younger version of George T. Stagg, which is part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. The name “Stagg Jr.” pays tribute to George T. Stagg, a pioneering figure in the American whiskey industry.
Stagg Jr. is made from the same mash bill as George T. Stagg, which consists of corn, rye, and malted barley. However, Stagg Jr. is aged for a shorter period, typically between 6 and 9 years, compared to George T. Stagg, which is aged for at least 15 years. Despite its shorter aging period, Stagg Jr. is known for its bold and complex flavor profile, making it a popular choice among whiskey enthusiasts.
Comparing Stagg Jr. to George T. Stagg
While Stagg Jr. and George T. Stagg share the same mash bill, their aging processes and flavor profiles differ. George T. Stagg is aged for a longer period, resulting in a more refined and complex flavor profile. On the other hand, Stagg Jr. is aged for a shorter period, resulting in a more robust and bold flavor profile.
Moreover, George T. Stagg is released once a year, typically in the fall, and is highly sought-after by whiskey collectors. Stagg Jr., on the other hand, is released twice a year, in the spring and fall, and is relatively easier to find.
Top 10 Stagg Jr. Batches
Stagg Jr. is a barrel-proof bourbon whiskey produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery. It is the younger version of the iconic George T. Stagg bourbon and is known for its bold and uncut flavor. Here are the top 10 Stagg Jr. batches ranked.
photo credit: bid.unicornauctions.com
1. Batch 12 (Summer 2019)
Batch 12 is known for its rich and complex flavor profile. It has a nose of dark fruit, brown sugar, and molasses, with hints of oak and leather. On the palate, it has notes of vanilla, dark chocolate, tobacco, and toasted oak, with a long and warming finish. It has a proof of 128.4 and is highly sought after by bourbon enthusiasts.
photo credit: cdn11.bigcommerce.com
2. Batch 9 (Fall 2017)
Batch 9 is a well-balanced Stagg Jr. with a smooth and velvety mouthfeel. It has a nose of cherry, vanilla, and toffee, with a hint of spice. On the palate, it has flavors of caramel, dark chocolate, and toasted oak, with a long and satisfying finish. It has a proof of 131.9 and is considered one of the best batches of Stagg Jr.
photo credit: canawineco.com
3. Batch 11 (Winter 2018)
Batch 11 is a bold and flavorful Stagg Jr. with a nose of cocoa, cherries, and oak. On the palate, it has notes of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice, with a long and warming finish. It has a proof of 127.9 and is highly recommended for those who prefer a full-bodied bourbon.
photo credit: whisky.auction
4. Batch 13 (Fall 2019)
Batch 13 is a well-balanced Stagg Jr. with a nose of apricot, vanilla, and cherries. On the palate, it has flavors of dark fruit, toffee, and spice, with a long and warming finish. It has a proof of 128.4 and is highly sought after by bourbon collectors.
photo credit: flaskfinewines.com
5. Batch 5 (Fall 2015)
Batch 5 is a rich and complex Stagg Jr. with a nose of caramel, vanilla, and oak. On the palate, it has notes of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice, with a long and satisfying finish. It has a proof of 129.7 and is highly recommended for those who enjoy a bold and flavorful bourbon.
photo credit: caskcartel.com
6. Batch 1 (Fall 2013)
Batch 1 is the first release of Stagg Jr. and is known for its bold and uncut flavor. It has a nose of caramel, vanilla, and cherries, with a hint of spice. On the palate, it has notes of dark fruit, pepper, and toasted oak, with a long and warming finish. It has a proof of 134.4 and is highly sought after by bourbon enthusiasts.
photo credit: whiskyauctioneer.com
7. Batch 10 (Spring 2018)
Batch 10 is a well-balanced Stagg Jr. with a nose of spice, fruit, and oak. On the palate, it has flavors of fruit, peppermint, and caramel, with a long and satisfying finish. It has a proof of 129.7 and is highly recommended for those who enjoy a smooth and velvety bourbon.
photo credit: bid.unicornauctions.com
8. Batch 3 (Fall 2014)
Batch 3 is a bold and flavorful Stagg Jr. with a nose of rye, cherries, and oak. On the palate, it has notes of cherries, cocoa, and herbs, with a long and warming finish. It has a proof of 132.1 and is highly sought after by bourbon collectors.
photo credit: media.whisky.auction
9. Batch 17 (Winter 2021)
Batch 17 is a well-balanced Stagg Jr. with a nose of chocolate, vanilla, and oak. On the palate, it has flavors of citrus, jam, and tobacco, with a long and satisfying finish. It has a proof of 131.1 and is highly recommended for those who enjoy a full-bodied bourbon.
photo credit: products1.imgix.drizly.com
10. Batch 14 (Summer 2020)
Batch 14 is a bold and flavorful Stagg Jr. with a nose of apple, honey, cherries, and oak. On the palate, it has notes of berries, cocoa, and herbs, with a long and warming finish. It has a proof of 130.2 and is highly sought after by bourbon enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now learned about the top 10 Stagg Jr. batches. Each batch has its own unique taste and aroma, making it difficult to choose just one favorite. However, we hope that our rankings have helped you narrow down your options and find the perfect Stagg Jr. batch for you.
Whether you prefer a batch with a strong oak flavor or one with a more subtle sweetness, there is a Stagg Jr. batch out there for you. So go ahead and try a few batches, and let us know which one is your favorite!
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