Happy first review of the New Year! It is amazing to think that I started my bourbon journey over two years ago and have been writing about it for a little over a year now. When I purchased the bottle I am reviewing today, I had no clue what it was, or who made it, but I knew it looked cool! There were three of them sitting on the shelf, not in a case, (times have changed) and they were priced at the unforgettable price of $69. Knowing what I know now, and how amazing this bottle is, I truly wish I would have bought a second bottle that random Saturday afternoon; we all live and learn. I have grown to love many of the now over-hyped products produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery, and I still, hope to visit the distillery in the near future. With that, today’s review comes from the world renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery, and what was known as Stagg Jr., Batch 15.

From the Buffalo Trace website: George T. Stagg built the most dominant American distillery of the 19th century, during a time known as the Gilded Age of Bourbon. Uncut and unfiltered, this robust bourbon whiskey ages for nearly a decade and boasts the bold character that is reminiscent of the man himself. Rich, sweet, chocolate and brown sugar flavors mingle in perfect balance with the bold rye spiciness. The boundless finish lingers with hints of cherries, cloves and smokiness.

Since that Saturday afternoon over two years ago, we have only seen one bottle of Stagg Jr. (Batch 17) in NoCo. This bottle was high on a shelf, behind the counter, in a small little store in FoCo priced at $399; yes I asked, and yes I absolutely passed on purchasing it. However, as we have all learned, even priced 600% higher than MSRP, this bottle was gone less than a month later.

Overall, this is what I consider the quintessential high-proof bourbon flavor profile. Exceedingly well-balanced, with all the traditional sweet bourbon notes, this bottle by far is one of my top 5 finishes of all time; such an amazingly long Colorado winter hug. No matter what your thoughts might be about Buffalo Trace Distillery and the products they distill, Stagg Jr. should be on everyone’s bucket list of exceptional pours, and definitely will remain a bourbon on my shelf; that is if I can find another decently priced bottle. With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Vanilla, Brown Sugar, Berries, Baking Spices, and Oakiness
• Palate: Buttery Warm Heat on the Tounge with Notes of Vanilla, Caramel, Spices, and Oak
• Finish: Long Colorado Winter Hug ending in Dry Oak, Vanilla, and Baking Spice.
• 2023 MSRP: $59
• 2023 National Average: $259
• Proof: 131.1
• My Rating: Save It! (I have been for over two years now, but all great things come to an end)

Please remember, drinking bourbon is a personal adventure, so do not be afraid to drink it neat, with ice, or add some water. It’s your bourbon, you bought it, and you should enjoy it how you want to enjoy it!

Cheers! Prost! Sláinte!

Bourbon Bossman