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Does Buffalo Trace still make Stagg Jr?

Published in Buffalo Trace Bourbon 2 mins read

Yes, Buffalo Trace Distillery continues to produce Stagg Jr., though the "Jr." designation was dropped, and the product is now simply known as Stagg. This acclaimed bourbon remains a significant part of their portfolio, released in limited batches throughout the year.

Evolution of Stagg Bourbon

Originally introduced as Stagg Jr., this bourbon gained a loyal following for its robust character and high proof, serving as a more accessible, albeit younger, counterpart to the revered George T. Stagg from the annual Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. In 2021, Buffalo Trace officially rebranded Stagg Jr. to simply Stagg, streamlining the name while maintaining the same beloved product inside the bottle.

New batches of Stagg are consistently released, catering to the ongoing demand from bourbon enthusiasts. For example, the Summer 2024 release is identified as Batch "24A", indicating Buffalo Trace's continuous production and release schedule.

Key Characteristics of Stagg Bourbon

Stagg is celebrated for its distinctive profile, which Buffalo Trace highlights as showcasing some of their most powerful and "punchy" flavors. It stands out due to several factors:

  • High Proof: Stagg is bottled at barrel strength, meaning it is not diluted before bottling, offering a potent and intense drinking experience.
  • Bold Flavor: As a younger, bolder version of the George T. Stagg lineage, it often presents strong notes of dark fruit, rich chocolate, caramel, and a significant spice kick.
  • Batch Variations: While consistent in its core profile, each batch of Stagg can offer subtle variations in proof and specific tasting notes, making each release unique and sought after by collectors and drinkers alike.

Why Stagg Continues to Be Popular

Stagg's sustained popularity stems from its ability to deliver a full-flavored, high-proof bourbon experience that rivals some much older and rarer expressions. Its release schedule, typically a few batches per year, creates anticipation among consumers, further solidifying its status as a highly desirable allocation.