Stagg Jr Kentucky Straight Bourbon Batch 17 128.7 proof

Description

Stagg Jr. Batch 17 serves as a historic milestone in the Buffalo Trace portfolio. Representing the conclusion of the “Jr.” era, this release has become a significant collector’s item, prized not just for its legacy, but for its exceptional flavor profile.

Production and Context:

• The Final “Jr.”: Following the 2021 release of this batch, Buffalo Trace dropped the “Jr.” designation from the label. Many enthusiasts consider this the end of an era, noting that Batch 17’s profile was more mature and “older-tasting” than many of its predecessors.

• Speculation: Due to the cancellation of the 2021 George T. Stagg (GTS) release from the Antique Collection, there has been widespread speculation among enthusiasts that high-quality barrels intended for the older GTS release were blended into the final Stagg Jr. batches, contributing to the batch’s sophisticated, oak-forward character.

• Stats: Like all Stagg Jr. releases, it uses Buffalo Trace’s low-rye Mash Bill #1, is non-age-stated (typically cited as “nearly a decade” old), and is bottled at barrel strength—128.7 proof—without chill filtration.

Flavor Profile:

Batch 17 is frequently praised for its ability to drink below its high proof, offering a velvety texture rather than aggressive heat.

• Nose: Rich aromas of chocolate, brown sugar, and sweet oak, complemented by fresh leather and a distinct dark-fruit sweetness.

• Palate: A complex, full-bodied experience featuring notes of dark chocolate, tobacco, hazelnut, and plum or blackberry jam, all underpinned by a deep layer of baking spices and oak.

• Finish: Long and warming, leaving behind traces of dark vanilla, cola, clove, and lingering dark fruit.