Daniel Davis
A Whiskey That Staggers the Imagination: Old Stagg Whiskey Review
Ah, the legend of Old Stagg Whiskey. It’s a name that can send shivers down a connoisseur’s spine – the good kind, mind you. When it comes to whiskey, everyone seems to be searching for that one bottle that feels like striking gold, and Old Stagg might just be the treasure you’re after. Let’s dive deep into the cask and swish around the characteristics that make Old Stagg a whiskey that’s aged not just in barrels, but in tradition and sophistication.
The Whiff of Whiskey Wonderland
Nose to the glass, take a deep breath, and welcome to a world of scents that promises pleasure in every sip. Unveiling an intricate tapestry of aromas, Old Stagg leads with a bold tapestry woven from the finest tobacco leaf, imbued with the richness of charred oak, the sophistication of leather, a swirl of vanilla, and a defining cigar box note that whispers tales of refinement. It’s almost as if it’s daring you to take a sip.
The Palate Paints a Picture
And there you go, the taste, oh the taste! As the Old Stagg whiskey dances on your palate, notes of Luxardo cherries pirouette gracefully, allowing a flourish of sweetness to accent the strong staples of oak and tobacco leaf. It’s like a dash of peppercorn spice sashaying across the stage, leaving you clapping for an encore.
The Finale That Lingers
But hold on, the show isn’t over. The finish of Old Stagg skips in with a pop of syrup, before a slow crossfade into the sturdy embrace of dry oak and leather. And just like the final lingering notes of a grand orchestra, the heat pulsates in a slow undulation, a testament to the high-proof whiskey lineage it so proudly comes from.
The Echoes of History
Every sip of Old Stagg is a nod to the man himself, George T. Stagg, the grand figure who, once upon the late 19th century, turned a distillery into a legend. As the curtain fell on Prohibition, it was Old Stagg that took center stage, replacing O.F.C. bourbon as the flagship of the newly christened George T. Stagg Distillery, now known as the Buffalo Trace Distillery. The brand echoed through time, carried on the shoulders of its barrel proof descendants, the Stagg and the George T. Stagg bourbon.
Stagg by Any Other Name
You may ponder – what separates the Old Stagg from its kin, the Stagg and George T. Stagg bourbons? While they’re all members of the same high-proof family, each boasts unique character traits that make them stand apart. Yet, they’re bound by that signature Stagg strength and those distinctive earthy, expressive notes.
Taste Test: A Side-by-Side Sip
Let’s get practical for a moment. Imagine a glass of Old Stagg next to a glass of the 2023 George T. Stagg. Take a sip of one, and then the other. They’re like siblings sharing a resemblance so uncanny yet each parading their own quirks—Old Stagg with its leather backbone, George T. Stagg flaunting a tad more raisin sweetness and a chewier texture that gives it a slight edge. Yet, both will impress those who cherish a high-proof whiskey adventure.
Savoring the Stagg Sensation
Old Stagg delivers an experience as expressive as the man it honors. It’s not merely a drink; it’s a journey through time, a complex saga of flavors, and a celebration of whiskey craftsmanship. Lose yourself in the ebb and flow of its potency, the waltz of its flavors, and indulge in a taste that’s as legendary as it is delicious.
In the Spirit of Stagg: The Verdict
In conclusion, Old Stagg isn’t just a whiskey. It’s a performance in a glass, a standing ovation for senses. Each note, from nose to finish, coalesces into a symphony of flavors that not only stands up to the Stagg name but elevates it. Whether you’re a seasoned high-proof hunter or just venturing into the realm of rich bourbons, Old Stagg beckons with a warm welcome.
So there you have it—a whiskey woven from the threads of history, bottled bravado, and a whisper of vanilla-infused wizardry. Old Stagg is an express train to whiskey enlightenment, and you’ve got a first-class ticket. Enjoy the ride!
Photo by courtesy of the Buffalo Trace Distillery.
Classification: Whiskey
Company: Sazerac Company
Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery
Release Date: October 2023
Proof: 132.4
Age: NAS (Aged at least 4 years per TTB regulations)
Mashbill: Undisclosed
Color: Walnut
MSRP: $1,000 / Set of five 375mL bottles (2023)
I absolutely loved this Old Stagg whiskey review – it truly is a timeless elixir of excellence! The history and quality of Old Stagg whiskey shines through in this comprehensive review, making it a must-read for any whiskey enthusiast.