George T. Stagg 2023 Release Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (75cl, 67.5%)

George T. Stagg is a Kentucky straight bourbon from Buffalo Trace Distillery, released once a year as part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. This is the 2023 release, bottled at barrel strength, 135 proof (67.5% ABV), in a 75cl bottle. It is uncut and unfiltered, so it reaches the glass as it came from the barrel. The nose brings dark caramel, charred oak, chocolate fudge, vanilla and dried dark fruit. The palate shows dark toffee, roasted oak, espresso, black cherry, baking spice and dark chocolate, and the finish is very long and warming, with charred oak, dark fruit, bitter chocolate and lingering spice.