Stagg Jr. Batch 1 is the first release of what has become one of Buffalo Trace's most sought-after and highly regarded bourbons. Known for its high proof and bold flavors, Stagg Jr. Batch 1 (at an impressive 134.4 proof) is a powerhouse of a bourbon that offers an intense and complex tasting experience. It's made from a mash bill that includes corn, rye, and malted barley, aged in charred oak barrels, and bottled at an uncut, cask strength, offering full flavor intensity.
NOSE: The nose of Stagg Jr. Batch 1 is rich, bold, and powerful, as expected from a bourbon bottled at 134.4 proof. The first thing you’ll notice is a strong wave of sweet caramel, dark chocolate, and vanilla, balanced by the heat of the high proof. Beneath this sweetness, there are deep, spicy notes of black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves, which add complexity and warmth. A hint of oak and charred wood emerges, along with an earthy quality that brings depth to the aroma. Dark fruit notes, like dried cherries and raisins, also appear, adding a fruity element to the bouquet. The overall nose is intense and layered, offering a balanced blend of sweetness, spice, and rich oak.
TASTE: On the palate, Stagg Jr. Batch 1 delivers a full-bodied, bold, and spicy experience. The high proof is immediately noticeable, providing a burst of heat that carries the rich flavors. There’s a deep sweetness of caramel, vanilla, and dark toffee that forms the backbone of the flavor profile. As the sip develops, the rye spice comes forward, with strong flavors of black pepper, cinnamon, and baking spices that bring complexity and warmth. The oak influence is substantial, contributing flavors of charred wood, leather, and a hint of smokiness. Dark fruits, such as cherries and plums, also make their presence known, adding a fruity sweetness that balances the bourbon’s intensity. The mouthfeel is thick and full, with the heat of the high proof giving it a bold and substantial presence on the palate.
FINISH: The finish of Stagg Jr. Batch 1 is long, warm, and powerful, as expected from a high-proof bourbon. The sweetness of caramel and vanilla continues to linger, while the rye spice leaves a lasting warmth. The oak influence remains, with a dry, slightly tannic finish that brings a touch of leather, char, and smoke. The high proof ensures that the finish is intense, with the heat slowly fading but the rich flavors continuing to evolve. The dark fruit notes from the palate also linger, creating a complex and satisfying aftertaste. Overall, the finish is robust and memorable, leaving a lasting impression with its depth, warmth, and balance of sweetness and spice.
Caramel
Cinnamon
Clove
Dark Chocolate
Dried
Leather
Oak
Pear
Pepper
Smoke
Toffee
Vanilla