Stagg Jr.

Stagg Jr.

If you like your bourbon big, bold, and uncut, Stagg Jr. is the bottle for you. This powerhouse whiskey is bottled straight from the barrel at cask strength, delivering an unfiltered, high-proof experience that packs a serious punch. But don’t let the proof scare you—beneath the intensity lies a rich, complex bourbon loaded with deep caramel, dark fruit, and spicy oak. It’s the kind of whiskey that demands your attention and rewards you with every sip.

What Makes It Special?

Stagg Jr. comes from the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery, the same folks behind the highly sought-after George T. Stagg bourbon. While Stagg Jr. is the younger sibling, it’s no slouch—it carries the same bold, barrel-strength DNA, just with a slightly younger aging process. Each batch varies slightly in proof, but one thing remains constant: this bourbon is unapologetically rich, complex, and built for those who appreciate a full-throttle whiskey experience.

Tasting Notes

From the first pour, you know you’re dealing with something serious. The deep amber color hints at the intensity inside, while the nose explodes with dark cherries, brown sugar, cinnamon, and charred oak.

Take a sip, and it’s a rush of flavor—thick waves of caramel, vanilla, and molasses hit first, followed by a fiery kick of rye spice, black pepper, and dark chocolate. The barrel proof makes its presence known with a warm, lingering heat, but it never overpowers the rich, layered sweetness. The finish is long, bold, and satisfying, with notes of toasted oak, spice, and just a touch of espresso.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Stagg Jr. is not a beginner’s bourbon—it’s meant for sipping, savoring, and appreciating. Neat is the way to go if you love intensity, but adding a few drops of water can help open up even more complexity. If you like your bourbon on the rocks, a large ice cube will mellow out some of the heat without dulling the deep flavors.

Final Verdict

Stagg Jr. isn’t for the faint of heart, but for bourbon lovers who crave bold, barrel-proof intensity, this is as good as it gets. It’s rich, fiery, and full of character, making it a must-have for anyone who appreciates whiskey in its purest form. If you can find a bottle, grab it—this one doesn’t sit on shelves for long.