Patrick S, at The Stogie Guys, recently sampled George T. Stagg, 141.8 proof Bourbon which was released in 2008. (More traditional Bourbon is 80 proof.)

Seems that he liked what he tasted, even though he called it a “beast of a bourbon.”

That strength gives off an seriously strong spicy oak aroma with caramel notes. The color is a deep brown mahogany with a slightly cloudy hue due to its unfiltered nature.

The dominant taste corresponds with the nose, with an intense cedar spice. Underneath you’ll find a syrupy combination of blackcurrant, unsweetened chocolate and a hint of apple. The finish is spicy, long and wheaty.

Patrick noted that because of the high alcohol content, it is against federal regulations to transport George T. Stagg by airplane. (Flammability issues.)

Serving suggestion:

I’d suggest preparing the Stagg neat, then adding water (use spring or distilled water as opposed to low grade tap water) to dilute it to taste. I’ve found that just a few drops of water opens up this bourbon perfectly without diluting its powerful nature.

Not much is known about George T. Stagg, except that as a whiskey salesman in St. Louis he made the smart decision to join E.H. Taylor to build the most dominant distillery in the 19th Century.

Buffalo Trace is carrying on the tradition of the Gerrard County, Kentucky native.