A little background

George T. Stagg is one of five offerings in Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection. The barrels for the 2023 release were aged no less than 15 years and 3 months. They were distilled in Spring of 2008 and released in the Fall of 2023. The bourbon was released at 135 proof. MSRP was set at $125 for the 2023 release. This Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is uncut and unfiltered.

The original George T. Stagg distillery was one of four distilleries that were permitted to remain in operation during prohibition. The history and heritage of this spirit hold up to the words of an 1890 Bourbon Expert, “ne plus ultra of its class,” “the best of the best.”

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Dark Gold

Nose

Red fruits, cherry essence, orange, pecans, lime, burnt butterscotch, cookie dough, egg yolk, and flat cola.

Palate

Pancake syrup, burnt toffee, dark butter chocolate, cherry Life Savers, baking spice, and dried oak.

Finish

Medium length. Walnut, cinnamon, cherry cola, leather, and dark fruits.

In closing

The 2023 release of George T. Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is rich in flavor and tradition. The nose is complex and evolving, requiring time to fully open up. The palate is beautiful and balanced. Despite the high ABV, the alcohol is extremely well integrated. Slightly drying and medium in length, the finish will leave you longing for another sip. As expected, the 2023 release of George T. Stagg checks every box and exceeds expectations.

The sample used for this review was provided by Buffalo Trace Distillery free of charge with no strings attached.