George T. Stagg 2023 Release Barrel Proof 135 Proof (67.50%) 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: 135 proof (67.50% ABV)

Tasting Notes:

Nose: A wave of cinnamon and cherry cola.

Palate: Well-balanced with a mix of leather, chocolate and vanilla frosting.

Finish: A robust, earthy finish.

Batch Specific Reviews:

"Bringing together high proof and high age to create a robust, memorable bourbon is what George T. Stagg is known for, which the 2023 release delivers in spades." - Jordan Moskal, Breaking Bourbon

"I hesitate to call this release the best George T. Stagg ever, and even calling it the best in recent memory is a high bar to clear. But it’s a great Stagg, through and through. The 2023 release stands on its own as a delicious, powerful bourbon; no punches pulled, no notes tucked away into recessive corners of the tasting experience." - David Thomas Tao, VinePair (96 Points)

"This bruiser of a bourbon has no shortage of character. Fans of bold caramels, a hint of cherry and big char will rejoice." - Bottle Raiders (95 Points)

"Fiery Red Hots and vanilla extract appear first on the nose, followed by expressed orange peel, white pepper, and wintergreen. The palate is hot, with cacao nibs, caramel, cinnamon, blackberries, and cherries. The finish is robust and lengthy, with wood tannins, cedar chips, lemon peel, and cocoa powder. As booming as the ABV would suggest but not prohibitively so." - Jake Emen, Distiller (95 Points)