Overview:
I love cask strength bourbons. Love em. As I mentioned in other reviews, I typically drink my bourbon in manhattans unless it’s grade “A” quality juice. Then I’ll consider drinking it neat. But barrel strength bourbons are the best for manhattans. Two or three is all you need to have a really good time. Stagg Jr. is the perfect barrel strength bourbon for a cocktail.
Company Specs:
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.
Tasting: 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.
Awards:
2015 Best of Division (Whiskey) / Gold Medal (97 points) – Los Angeles International Spirits Competition
2015 Double Gold Medal – San Francisco World Spirits Competition
2015 Trophy Finalist – 95 points – Ultimate Spirits Challenge
2015 BTI International Review of Spirits – “Exceptional” – 95 points
2015 Gold Medal – North American Bourbon & Whiskey Competition
2014 Silver Medal – International Wine & Spirits Competition
2015 Silver Medal – Denver International Spirits Competition
2014 Silver Medal – Los Angeles International Wine & Spirits Competition
2014 Double Gold Medal – San Francisco World Spirits Competition
2014 Bronze Medal, American Bourbon Whiskey No Age Statement – World Whiskies Awards
2014 Excellent/Highly Recommended – Ultimate Spirits Challenge
Tasting Rating: A-
It’s bold but beautiful. It may be over 65 percent alcohol, but you wouldn’t really know it when drinking it in a manhattan. I love it.
Value Rating: B
I think it’s about $60. That’s more than you typically want to spend on a 750. That said, it’s barrel strength. So, you get a lot of bang for your buck.
Overall Rating: A-
It’s one of my favorites. I really like it. If you see a bottle, buy it!
The Whiskey Post 