Welcome to Day 5 of The 12 Days of Bourbon Christmas! Today, we’re taking a bold step into the world of cask-strength bourbon with Stagg Jr.. This isn’t your everyday pour—it’s rich, intense, and unapologetically powerful. As we get closer to Christmas, it felt like the right time to splurge on something a little more special. Stagg Jr. isn’t the easiest to find, and it’s not as budget-friendly as some earlier picks, but it’s incredible depth makes it worth the hunt.
Before we dive in, if you’re curious about the man behind the name, check out my blog post titled “George T. Stagg Bourbon: A Legendary Journey Through a World of Extraordinary Whiskey.” Now, let’s explore why Stagg Jr. deserves its spot on this holiday countdown.
What Does Cask Strength Mean?
Cask strength, also known as barrel proof, means the bourbon is bottled straight from the barrel without dilution. Most bourbons are watered down to a standard proof before bottling, but cask-strength bourbons offer a more intense flavor and higher alcohol content. Stagg Jr. typically comes in around 130 proof, packing a serious punch. This isn’t a bourbon for beginners, but for seasoned drinkers, it’s a real treat.
Tasting Notes
Drinking Stagg Jr. feels like stepping into a cabin on a snowy night, the fire roaring and the scent of spiced desserts filling the air. On the nose, you’re greeted with bold aromas of dark caramel, cherries, and a hint of rich chocolate. There’s a smoky undertone, like toasted marshmallows, that draws you in even further.
The first sip is a rush of flavor—dark fruit, vanilla, and toffee mingle with layers of cinnamon spice and bold oak. The heat from the high proof is unmistakable, but it’s balanced by the depth of flavors. It’s like savoring a spiced fruitcake baked to perfection, with just a touch of black pepper on the finish.
The finish itself is long, warm, and satisfying. Notes of charred oak and dark chocolate linger, leaving you with a memory of that bold first sip. It’s a bourbon that demands your full attention and rewards you for every moment spent savoring it.
Perfect for the Holidays
Stagg Jr. isn’t a bourbon you casually pour for a big party—it’s one you save for small, meaningful moments. Maybe you’re sitting by the fire with a close friend or toasting to the end of a long year. Its boldness pairs well with rich holiday foods like roasted meats, chocolate truffles, or even a dense fruitcake.
If you’re mixing cocktails, keep it simple—a classic Old Fashioned or a Manhattan lets the bourbon’s intensity shine. But honestly, this one is best enjoyed neat, maybe with a few drops of water to open up the flavors.
A Holiday Toast
Stagg Jr. reminds us why bourbon is such a treasured part of the holidays. It’s bold, complex, and full of character—perfect for a time of year when we gather to celebrate what matters most. While it may take a little more effort to find and is priced higher than some other bourbons, it’s worth every sip for the experience it delivers.
As we raise our glasses to Day 5 of The 12 Days of Bourbon Christmas, let’s toast to boldness and the joy of sharing something truly special. Join me tomorrow as we continue the countdown with a high rye bourbon and my go to choice for mixing cocktails. I might even share some of my favorite recipes. Cheers to Stagg Jr. and the spirit of the season!