George T. Stagg 2017 Release Barrel Proof 129.2 Proof (64.6%) Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 750mL

This extremely hearty whiskey ages in new charred oak barrels for no less than 15 years.  Straight out of the barrel, uncut and unfiltered, the taste is powerful, flavorful and intense. Open it up with a few drops of water, sit back and ponder the wonders of the universe.

Lush toffee sweetness and dark chocolate with hints of vanilla, fudge, nougat and molasses. Underlying notes of dates, tobacco, dark berries, spearmint and a hint of coffee round out the palate.

Age: 15 years 3 months old at bottling.

Proof: 129.2 proof (64.6% ABV)

Tasting Comments:

Espresso, chocolate fudge, and tobacco.

Batch Specific Reviews:

"While last year's Stagg was good, it didn’t seem to live up to the reputation that it has rightfully earned in the bourbon community. However, with so many bottles of Stagg this year, it’s hard not to wonder if Buffalo Trace was going to eschew quality for quantity. Thankfully this year's version seems to live up to the standard so many have come to expect. Yes the finish transitions to a tannic note that seems to almost overstay its welcome, however the nose and palate deliver an experience that’s sure to delight everyone who is able to get their hands on a bottle." - Jordan, Breaking Bourbon

" Caramel. Caramel. Caramel. It comes early and remains to the finish. In between this caramel sandwich, it’s nutmeg, cinnamon, jasmine, rose petals, baked apples, fudge, pecan pie, peanut brittle, and roasted peanuts. Over a mouth-coating palate, its complexity tingles and every note plays just under the rich and layered caramel that presents itself as a chew on the extremely long finish. This is a must-have sipper." - Fred Minnick, Whisky Advocate (94 Points)

"Wonderful balance, great viscosity and powerful intensity. This is a special bourbon that you can tell was made for special occasions." - Mike & Mike, The Bourbon Culture (9/10)

"George T. Stagg manages to be bold yet graceful, masculine yet nuanced. It hits every bourbon button head on, and somehow manages to be dangerously drinkable even at this huge proof. Nice work, Buffalo Trace—this is my favorite of the 2017 Antique Collection." - Margarett Waterbury, The Whiskey Wash (9/10)

"Sweet leathery funk and a huge dollop of maple syrup start you off. Pleasant char notes mingle well with the woody flavors and more sweet, dark maple syrup on the palate. Loads of barrels spices tingle the tongue and throat. Minty finish. Pour this on a giant rock and put your feet up--you're going to want to take your time with this one." - Stephanie Moreno, Distiller (94 Points)