131 proof. Uncut. Unfiltered. Stagg Batch 18 — a Winter 2022 release of Buffalo Trace’s annual cask-strength bourbon, and the first batch to drop the “Jr” from the name.

Stagg is Buffalo Trace’s annual batch cask-strength expression — the same uncut, unfiltered barrel-strength philosophy as the BTAC George T. Stagg, in broader, more accessible batches. Batch 18 marked the rebrand from “Stagg Jr” to simply “Stagg,” and reviewers noted a more oak-driven, chocolate-leaning character than earlier batches.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Heavy caramel with raspberry and cherry, more chocolate and older, drier oak than typical Stagg, plus orange, green apple, and cinnamon. Punchy and proof-forward.
• Palate: Cinnamon-forward and spicy, with dry tannic oak, walnut, nutmeg, and dark fruit, and lingering raspberry and orange.
• Finish: Long and oaky with cinnamon, vanilla, and dried fruit; full barrel-strength heat.

Specs

• Distillery: Buffalo Trace, Frankfort, Kentucky
• Style: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Uncut, Unfiltered
• Proof: 131 (65.5% ABV)
• Batch: 18 (Winter 2022)
• Size: 750ml

Browse all George T. Stagg and Stagg batches at Wooden Cork.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why is Batch 18 significant? It was the first batch released as simply “Stagg” after Buffalo Trace dropped the “Jr” designation. Reviewers described it as more oak- and chocolate-driven, with a cinnamon-forward, spicy palate.
• How does Stagg differ from BTAC George T. Stagg? BTAC George T. Stagg is one of five annual BTAC releases in extremely limited allocation, minimum 15 years aged. Stagg uses the same uncut, unfiltered philosophy at nearly a decade of age in broader, more accessible batches.