Overview
Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 26C is a highly allocated, barrel-proof bourbon from the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. As the third batch of the 2026 Stagg series, Batch 26C is bottled uncut and unfiltered at an impressive 124.6 proof (62.3% ABV), delivering the intense richness and complexity that have made Stagg one of the most sought-after bourbons in America.
Formerly known as Stagg Jr., this exceptional Kentucky Straight Bourbon is matured in new charred American oak barrels for approximately 8–9 years, developing deep layers of caramel, dark cherry, chocolate, toasted oak, and warming spice. Batch 26C showcases a particularly rich cherry-cola character, complemented by bold cinnamon spice and a full-bodied mouthfeel. Its limited availability and distinctive barrel-proof profile make it a standout release for serious bourbon enthusiasts and collectors.
🥃 Tasting Notes
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Nose: Rich aromas of dark cherry, caramel, brown sugar, vanilla bean, cherry cola, toasted oak, and warm baking spices with subtle hints of leather and tobacco.
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Palate: Full-bodied and intensely flavorful with layers of dark cherry syrup, caramelized sugar, vanilla, dark chocolate, cola, cinnamon, seasoned oak, and bold rye spice. The 124.6-proof presentation delivers exceptional richness and a thick, creamy mouthfeel.
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Finish: Long, powerful, and warming with lingering notes of cherry cola, caramel, cinnamon, charred oak, black pepper, tobacco, and gentle smoky sweetness.
🔍 Key Details
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Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
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Brand: Stagg
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Batch: 26C
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Release Year: 2026
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Proof / ABV: 124.6 Proof (62.3% ABV)
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Size: 750 mL
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Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery
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Origin: Frankfort, Kentucky
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Mash Bill: Buffalo Trace Mash Bill #1
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Age: No Official Age Statement (Approximately 8–9 Years)
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Maturation: Aged in new charred American oak barrels
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Production: Uncut, unfiltered, barrel-proof bourbon
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Release Type: Highly Allocated Limited Batch Release
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Profile: Bold, rich, full-bodied, and complex with dark cherry, caramel, chocolate, vanilla, toasted oak, cinnamon, and rye spice
🍸 How to Enjoy It
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Neat: The ideal way to experience its full barrel-proof intensity, rich texture, and layered complexity.
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With a few drops of water: Opens additional notes of dark cherry, caramel, vanilla, chocolate, and baking spice while softening the higher proof.
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On a large ice cube: Gradually mellows the bourbon while preserving its bold character and rich mouthfeel.
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Allow it to rest: Let the whiskey sit in the glass for 10–15 minutes to allow its concentrated aromas and flavors to develop.
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Special occasions: Perfect for collector tastings, milestone celebrations, and sharing with serious bourbon enthusiasts.
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Pairings: Pairs beautifully with smoked brisket, grilled steak, dark chocolate, roasted pecans, aged cheeses, and premium cigars.
✅ Who It’s For
Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 26C is ideal for Stagg collectors, Buffalo Trace enthusiasts, and bourbon drinkers seeking a powerful, uncut, and unfiltered Kentucky bourbon.
Its combination of 124.6-proof intensity, approximately 8–9 years of maturation, distinctive cherry-cola flavor profile, and limited 2026 batch release makes it an exceptional addition to any premium bourbon collection. Whether enjoyed neat, shared during a special occasion, or collected alongside other Stagg batches, Batch 26C delivers the bold character and complexity that have made the Stagg name legendary.
