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“If you develop the habit of success, you’ll make success a habit.” – Michael Angier With spring just around the corner in New England, my mind always turns to Irish whiskey. Negating the obvious obligation of celebrating St. Patrick's Day, those first sunny days fit for a picnic are also some of the most incredible moments to share a glass of uisce beatha— the "water of life." This was a fun surprise from Redbreast; I was shocked to see a bright blue box shining on the shelf at my local liquor store. Pulling the bottle down and looking at the packaging further, I was even more shocked to see "moscatel wine cask edition" prominently displayed on the front in shiny, gilded lettering. The Iberian Series has been quite a hit for the brand, and their PX Edition has been living rent-free in my head for quite a few years now. Having never really had any moscatel wine before in any memorable capacity, I started my tasting journey with a small bit of research. What is moscatel? Moscatel is a family of old grapes from Spain. These highly aromatic grape varietals are often made into fortified wines, which means they are typically proofed up with a higher ABV spirit, such as a neutral grape brandy, in order to give them a boozier dessert wine robustness. Fortification was born out of necessity in the 16th and 17th centuries, long before refrigeration and modern bottling equipment came along. If wines were not fortified, they would often oxidize or spoil on long, hot sea voyages. For those already familiar with other wines used in whiskey finishing, moscatel stands out for its ability to impart brighter characteristics such as fresh citrus zest, floral honey, and sun-drenched sweetness. This particular whiskey was blended from Midleton stocks ranging from 9 to 11 years of age before being re-casked into moscatel-seasoned hogsheads. The casks were sourced from a historic, family-owned winery in Málaga, Spain, called Bodegas Quitapenas, which seasoned the casks with their moscatel wine for 16 months. While this may not be as syrupy as some of the other Iberian Series wine finishes we have seen, such as Pedro Ximénez sherry, tawny port, or the ever-consistent oloroso-finished Lustau, I'm still quite excited to taste the impact on this single pot still Irish whiskey. Let's get into a review, shall we? Company on Label:  Redbreast (Midleton Distillery) Whiskey Type:  Single pot still Irish whiskey Mash Bill Percentages:  100% malted and unmalted barley Proof:  92° (46% ABV) Age:  NAS, though confirmed to be a blend of 9 to 11 year whiskeys finished for 16 months in moscatel-seasoned oak casks from the Bodegas Quitapenas in Málaga, Spain MSRP:  $110 Further identification:  The laser/lot code indicates this was first bottled and distributed in late 2025 Nose: On first lifting the glass, I find aromas of passionfruit and pansies, both delicate and sweet. Deeper inhales produce tart red raspberry dashed with confectioners' sugar. In the right nostril: bolder oak with hints of leather and resinous cedar grilling planks. In the left nostril: light biscuit aromas ooze into buttery tones bolstered by cardamom and earthy saffron. The nose is deeper than most Irish whiskeys, already going far beyond the classic sugar cookie sweetness of single pot still. Deep inhales are warm and inviting without putting off any heat. It remains a fairly shy nose, not too in your face, but if you have a well-calibrated sense of smell, there's quite a bit to find here. Delving the nose deeper into the glencairn, I find linen tones taking over the senses, smooth and bright. Returning after a few sips, the aromas continue to bloom in floral waves of lavender, chrysanthemum, and gorse. Vanilla tones build slowly before a massive explosion of butterscotch suddenly takes my nostrils by storm. For a few fleeting inhales, I'm in heaven. The rich sweetness eventually gives way to saltwater taffy and crisp winter air. The empty glass smells of mulberry jam and malted barley. Palate:  On first sip, an undeniable sweetness blooms across the tongue. Starting from the center of the top of my tongue before rolling backwards, I find the same passionfruit the nose led with, followed by honeysuckle and a lovely lingering red raspberry. The consistency across the senses here is a lovely experience. Another quick sip confirms the elegance of the mouthfeel, like buttercream frosting slowly spreading across the palate while simultaneously melting into every taste bud. Exploring further introduces the lovely pot still oil tones I crave in modern whiskey. Consistency is key here—the palate continues to deliver the base notes it started with but layers in subtle nuances of coconut, honey, and lemon ginger tea. The linger is soft but pervasive, leaving mostly tea tones in the mouth. Nearing the bottom of the glass, I find a bit of grilled pineapple and more herbal tones swinging through behind it, always with the oily, buttery sweetness you would expect out of this dram. My last sip is a hallmark of consistency with a finish that leaves me fully satisfied. Buttercream frosting and white pepper linger long after the liquid is gone. TL;DR: Nuance and consistency meet in a classically creamy Irish whiskey reimagined in moscatel Rating:  4/5 Really good. I want one of these on my shelf. This is a lovely return to form for Redbreast, handily beating out the 18 year expression I recently reviewed in both price and quality. This is the Midleton distillate I know and love. With the first-ever moscatel wine cask edition being added to the Iberian Series, I'm confident this brand is well positioned to continue to succeed in producing some of the finest whiskey out of Ireland. WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With over a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

“A nice blend of prediction and surprise seem to be at the heart of the best art.” – Wendy Carlos With rumors abound after its incredible inaugural launch through my friend Frank Dobbins , the Old Cassidy brand from Rare Character was ripe for speculation. With just one other single barrel coming through Unicorn Auctions in 2025, this remains the most mysterious brand from Rare Character, even with the likes of Brook Hill still making waves through the whiskey market. I got to taste Frank's single barrel at a tasting event with Pete and Pablo in Boston back in August of 2024. After one taste, I was fairly certain I knew where it was from. The hints are hiding in plain sight, right there on the front label. After three individual tastings, I'm ready to give you the inside scoop on what my taste buds picked up on the A-025 batch of Old Cassidy Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. Let's dive in on a review! Company on Label:  Bottled by Rare Character Whiskey Co., Lexington, KY Whiskey Type:  Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey Mash Bill Percentages:  Undisclosed blend of Kentucky bourbon mash bills Proof:  123° Age:  NAS, though there is a known 18 year bourbon base in the blend, likely with some 8-10 year barrels added in (this is my own speculation based on taste) MSRP: $200 Further identification:  Batch A-025 is the only batch from 2025 that I am aware of, though there was also another single barrel released for friends and family of Unicorn Auctions Nose:  Upon first pouring this, a big wave of bubblegum came wafting towards me. Bringing the glass to my nose after a bit of rest reveals almond, walnut, and delicate ambrosia fruit salad. A long, rolling inhale is full of an indistinguishable dried fruit medley bolstered by a bit of barrel funk. Light vanilla gives a good bit of Kentucky complexity, a nice find in this glass. I can't say I am immediately captivated by the nose here, but I'm curious enough to continue on for a taste. Coming back after a few sips pulls out aromas of simple, funky oak and crème brûlée. Late in the glass I still find myself befuddled by the rather muted nose compared to the palate, though if I dig, I can still find the light creamy vanilla and barrel funk with relative ease. The empty glass smells of a salted pretzel dunked in a bit of stone ground mustard, fading away before looping back into light sweet tart aromas. Palate:  My first taste is much bolder than the nose was suggesting. Big notes of ripe, black cherries and amaretto bloom into shimmering cinnamon and nutmeg. I find myself with an eyebrow raised, far more impressed on the palate than by the early aromatic introduction. Another small sip is complimentary and confirmatory: buttercream frosting, light cornflake sweetness, buttered cinnamon raisin bagel, and a long linger of salted caramel turn out wonderfully complex. A larger sip and swish are where I get a little lost as the flavors turn a bit metallic and convoluted; perhaps airy, small sips work best here. The mouthfeel is nice, not overly oily but coming across like a well-made vanilla syrup you might use in a latte. As I continue to work through the glass, a subtle development towards some more salty and savory characteristics occurs, trending out of the land of sweetness where we began. I find hints of roasted peanuts and creamy goat cheese before the cherry swings back in strong. Now drinking more like a cherry wine or cherry bounce cocktail, the booziness is beginning to build, showing off all 123 proof points while maintaining a silky safe mouthfeel that won't give you any burn. For my last taste I venture back into the larger sip territory to test the waters, but my qualm remains. The nuttiness that came around earlier is sharper, turning metallic again before settling into a medium-long linger filled with marzipan and goat cheese. TL;DR: Sweet, fruit-forward Kentucky bourbon with a fun little evolution on the palate Rating:  4/5 Really good. I want one of these on my shelf. With how much whiskey I have had from both Barton and Wild Turkey through the years, the hallmarks of both distilleries are written all throughout this whiskey. There may be a third distillery blending component I haven't fully identified, perhaps Heaven Hill with that light vanilla and nutty characteristic, though Wild Turkey is also certainly capable of those two flavor realms all on their own. My best guess would be a two-distillery blend, an 18 year Barton component with some 8-10 year Wild Turkey barrels thrown in the mix. All that doesn't really matter, so long as the whiskey is drinking good, which this certainly is! Overall, it's a really nice bourbon, one I am glad to have scooped up for $200 so that I could help steer folks in the right direction for their own palates. In the convoluted world of what feels like a new label every day, finding where to spend your hard-earned dollar is trickier than ever. Comparing this release to a great Russell's Reserve single barrel, I find a lot to love in both. While the Old Cassidy blend is going to be a little more dynamic and complex, a great single barrel is going to give you a clean and beautiful explosion of flavor at a cheaper entry point. WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With over a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

“Nothing more completely baffles one who is full of trick and duplicity than straightforward and simple integrity in another.” – Charles Caleb Colton Did you think this was another one of those legendary Heaven Hill Heritage Collection releases at first glance? I did too—and didn't hesitate to spend the $150 that was asked of me at the register when one of my local stores got a few bottles in. It's a simple mistake when the marketing is so similar. They both come in a blue box, though the 90th Anniversary doesn't open middle-out like the Heritage Collection does. They both are the same bottle shape, with a duplicitously similar label, and even feature the faux tax strip over the cork that is a perfect match for someone just glancing over quickly. Can you spot the dupe? With luxury visuals and a premium price tag in tow, I set out to find out if the whiskey within was worth the price of admission. I have since sat down with this well more than the typical three sober tastings I call for in my editorial policy , even spending time cross-referencing quality against known highly rated finished reviews such as the two Heritage Collection bottles you saw above. Stay tuned for that, and for now, settle in for a thorough examination of Heaven Hill's 90th Anniversary bourbon. Company on Label:  Distilled and bottled by Heaven Hill Distillery, Bardstown, KY Whiskey Type:  Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey Mash Bill Percentages:  78% corn, 10% rye, 12% malted barley Proof:  107° Age:  9 years Buy online:   Frootbat Further identification:  This is a 2025 release commemorating 90 years of independent family ownership , and is notably NOT part of the Heritage Collection series Nose:  On first lifting the glass, I find a molasses cookie and a hint of smoke flowing through my nostrils. Inhaling further, I find the aromas are inherently a bit dry and musty, sort of like a stale graham cracker. Hmm, after a little time in the glass, things start to get interesting... Mintiness jumps out as cherry juice tries to also find bearing, before both scents fall flat and the glass returns to simple molasses. Fickle oak comes and goes in reserved waves. As I find some black pepper aromas, I can't help but continue to find this pour rather stale in the nose. A whisper of vanilla can be found on the deepest inhales. After a sip there is a slight savory characteristic that develops, sort of like a smoky barbecue sauce. Eventually things once again return to a simple caramel and molasses medley. Late in the pour, some redeemable aromas begin to develop with the introduction of maple and walnut wood being worked in a busy woodshop. The empty glass smells like milk chocolate and burning newspaper. Palate:  Cherry juice and grenadine lead the way on the tongue before quickly fading into vague breadiness. The mouthfeel is on the thinner side here, leaving just a hint of passionfruit in the linger. Another quick sip is equally as short and straightforward. A longer sip and swish elicits more tingle, more pizzazz, and more fruit again. Overall it's a straight shooter, mixing in more fruit than the nose would have let on. With little to no evolution in the glass over time, I pick through until I find a watered-down version of cherry vanilla Coca-Cola. As I near the bottom of my glencairn, I still find my excitement tame and subdued. Light strawberry sweetness briefly impresses before melting into oblivion. My last sip is the most exemplifying of the Heaven Hill profile with vanilla frosting and light almond tones. The finish is nonexistent. TL;DR: Fans of light, smooth, and smoky bourbon can enjoy this at a surprisingly hefty cost Rating:  2.5/5 Okay whiskey. Nothing special about this pour. I can't say I was all that impressed with this pour. Given the marketing and packaging of this bottle, the comparisons to the Heritage Collection feel warranted. Tasting this bottle next to the likes of Heaven Hill Heritage Collection 17 year and the proximal 18 year release , there's no comparison to be made. The Heritage Collection releases are in a completely different league of their own, and this paltry contribution to the 2025 bourbon market fails to register completely. Compared to some other powerhouse pours that have come out of Heaven Hill in recent years, this bottling is pretty bland. There are so many other bottles on the shelf that you can buy for significantly less money than this that will give a more exciting experience. The market shift towards approachable whiskey that I have been noticing from the big distilleries is a sad one in my eyes. I don't normally talk about value, but this feels egregiously mismatched on a price-to-quality ratio... Just take some of my other recent Heaven Hill reviews: Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B523 (4/5), Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond 7 year (4/5), and Henry McKenna 10 year (4/5). All three of those options are objectively better without even considering price. Give me literally any batch of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof over the Heaven Hill 90th Anniversary bottling, and I'll be a much happier man. If you're looking for some more context here, feel free to check out my YouTube video on this bottle . I hate to admit that I regret buying this bottle from a brand that I otherwise love. WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With over a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

Image provided by Green River Distilling Co. High proof fanatics, rejoice! Green River Distilling Co. is expanding its award-winning lineup with the launch of Wheated Full Proof Bourbon. In their press release, Green River mentions why the wheated recipe was next in line for their full proof designation: "Wheated bourbon represents roughly one-third of the North American Bourbon market, with growth projected through 2031, even as average prices continue to climb across the category (Allied Market Research). At the same time, enthusiast demand has increasingly tilted toward higher proof offerings, with 100+ proof bourbons dominating many top rankings and full-proof releases showing strong growth across the category." Why is full proof (also interchangeable with cask strength or barrel proof ) such a hot commodity? If you ask Dan Callaway, master blender at Green River, he will tell you that the full proof wheated bourbon "gives fans a richer, more intense experience of the wheated bourbon they already love." Image provided by Green River Distilling Co. It's pretty simple. The higher the proof, the less water is added to the whiskey, making it more flavorful. The lower the proof, the more water is added to already aged whiskey. Now, there are certain practices, like low barrel entry proof, that preserve flavors while maintaining a lower proof, resulting in a less "watered down" taste or mouthfeel, but for the most part, brands add water after the whiskey has aged. Introducing the water at the same time as the whiskey is introduced to the barrel for aging is what low barrel entry proof essentially entails. For more information on low barrel entry proof, check out this past review. So, it comes as no surprise that higher proof whiskey is generally favored among those in the whiskey community. Personally, I love comparing and contrasting a higher-proof version of the same mashbill. Sometimes the full proof offering wins the race. Other times, the lower proof version takes the trophy home. Higher proof does not automatically mean the whiskey will be better or even have more flavor. Sometimes it just means more alcohol. But since every palate is different, the mileage will vary. The proof is in the taste, though, isn't it? Which starts with our willingness to sit with a pour and be patient as the liquid acclimates to the room's oxygen and the temperature of the glass, and adjusts to the manipulation of its form: through swirling and sipping, for example. With intention, a pour can offer much more than what you would expect to find in a glass of bourbon, rye, or malt. It is with this mindset of practiced patience that I approach all of my whiskey reviews. Which brings us to the fun part: tasting the first batch of Green River Full Proof Wheated bourbon! Thanks to the fine people at Green River Distilling Co., I am able to taste this sample ahead of its public release. Will this be a bottle you will want to hunt down this year? Read on to find out! Company on Label:  Green River Distilling Co. Whiskey Type:  Kentucky straight wheated bourbon Mash Bill Percentages: 70% corn, 21% wheat, 9% malted barley Proof:  109.3 ° Age:  5 years (5 to 7 years) MSRP: $49.99 Further Identification:  Green River Distilling will present batches at variable proofs, ranging from 109 to 116, with the initial batch bottled at 109.3 proof Nose:  Some whiskies lead with a texture in the nose, and this one definitely does: sweet and soft. The aromas are a bit reserved, especially for a higher proof whiskey. What I can pick out at the moment is what I would expect: caramel syrup, powdered sugar, and a dusting of ground cinnamon. I decide to set my glass down for a few more minutes to see what transpires, and find that after those extra few minutes, it is pleasant and encouraging: melted butter, notes of vanilla frosting, candied ginger, and crushed sweet tarts. It's rather mouth-watering, and I'm eager to sip, but I'm curious what else the aromas have in store for me if I sit and let them relax inside my glass. The sweetness develops into richer tones over time, with notes of buttercream frosting and vanilla pudding balanced beautifully with the cinnamon and pepper wood spice. As more time passes, more notes pop up: muddled strawberries, browning Honey Crisp apple slices, and a whiff of floral perfume. I'm eager to taste now. The aromas have transformed into tones I find in older aged whiskies after I return from a few sips. I find oiled leather, clay, and notebook paper. As the liquid continues to disappear, the wood spice ramps up, turning the aromas a bit hotter than my initial experience. The empty glass smells like tootsie roll wrappers, dusty dirt, and wildflowers. Palate:  Immediately, I'm overtaken by how wonderful this mouthfeel is with complementary flavors of soft sweetness. There are sweet tarts, vanilla frosting, and cinnamon buns. The whiskey in my mouth doesn't feel too hot on my fresh palate, and slides down my throat nicely with a welcomed warmth this cold afternoon. The linger reminds me of pancake crumbs soaked in honey with a cup of black tea on the side. This is good. Another sip amplifies the fruit and wood tones, with sliced apples covered in ground cinnamon, a side of toasted wheat bread, and melted butter. Additional sips have my shoulders dancing, transporting me to the early evening hours of an outdoor music festival where lightning bugs blink in rhythm to the music. As I near the end of my tasting experience, I'm pleased that the flavors have remained rich and well-rounded. The flavors continue to complement each other in a crushable way, which is a testament to this hour-long sit. TL;DR: A lovely, sweet bourbon with the right amount of heat and spice Rating:  4/5 Really good. I want one of these on my shelf. When a full proof option of an already-favorite lower proof offering comes onto the scene, the buzz it generates can be quite exciting. I admit that the 90-proof bottle of Green River's Wheated Bourbon isn't on my shelf, but bet your bottom dollar I'll be searching for both the original and the full proof offerings as soon as possible! WRITTEN BY: JES SMYTH W ith what started as a genuine curiosity for the “water of life,” fiction writer and published author Jes Smyth has nurtured her enthusiasm for whiskey ever since. From learning the vast history of whiskey making to celebrating the passion of the industry, she tastes each sip with intention and purpose while expressing the intricacies of whiskey in a relatable and heartfelt way. She is thrilled to be a contributing writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com  and hopes her words will resonate with those ready to explore the beautiful world of whiskey.

What hallmarks do you look for in small distilleries? Is there something you gravitate toward without realizing its importance until the pattern is established? Perhaps you seek out pot-still production, for example, or you look for a brand's commitment to preserving the historical ways of crafting whiskey, or you enjoy a passionate focus on local ingredients. Whatever the reason, I wonder: are consumers being too hard on the little guys who are pursuing their passions? I don't think so. Committing to a bottle of whiskey from a micro or craft distillery is an investment that comes with a higher price tag than, say, a bigger distillery. I'm certainly not a numbers person or an expert on profit margins and losses, but I can speak as a small distillery enthusiast who is intentional about my purchases and pours. Weldon Mills Distillery , located in Weldon, North Carolina, is a micro-distillery that both distills and crafts unique blends of whiskey, gin, rum, and vodka. That may seem redundant to read, but many small distilleries start out with sourced whiskey that they bottle themselves while their own stock is aging. So, it is important to note. Founded in 2018, Weldon Mills has two locations on the Roanoke River and offers both a distillery open to the public and a historic corn mill that serves as an event venue. In addition to the idyllic river views of the North Carolina landscape, the distillery proudly sources everything locally, from the water to the corn to the wheat and barley, directly from their home state. If you'd like to learn more about Weldon Mills Distillery, please visit their website . Our mission is to elevate life's moments, both big and small, by delivering the world's finest bourbon experience through a portfolio of elegant spirits defined by unmatched quality and craftsmanship Thank you to the folks at Weldon Mills for reaching out and providing the opportunity to try their whiskey. With certain hallmarks in mind and a palate ready to taste, I hope to offer a well-rounded review of a smaller distillery you may have never heard of before, so you can be a more informed and intentional consumer. Now, onward to the fun part! Company on Label:  Weldon Mills Distillery Whiskey Type:  A blend of straight bourbon whiskeys Mash Bill Percentages: Undisclosed Proof:  114.9 ° Age:  At least 2 years MSRP: $64.95 Further Identification:  Weldon Mills uses a three-grain mashbill with locally grown North Carolina corn, malted wheat, and barley Nose: Before I even lift the glass to my nose, I can smell the whiskey wafting from the table next to me. Once the rim of my glencarin is nestled cozily under my nostrils, I inhale robust and oily aromas that initially lean quite doughy. A second inhale ushers in pronounced cinnamon spice and rich caramel, and it has my mind relaxing into the familiarity of bourbon. Swirling the liquid releases additional wood spice, notably clove, with flashes of candied orange and baked apple pie. Digging my nose in deeper, which is quite easy even at this proof, I find subtle vanilla tones and the slightest hint of pepper. After a bit of rest, the welcome back has taken on richer tones of cinnamon buns, glazed donuts, and flaky pastry dough. Returning to the nose after several sips deepens the aromas into notes of steamed cappuccino and milk chocolate-covered orange slices. As the liquid disappears in my glass, the aromas hold steady, where each whiff is a reminder of what consistency smells like during a long sit with a dram. The empty glass smells of sweetened tea and damp hookah ash. Palate:  The first flash of liquid on my tongue has my eyes widening ever so slightly—this is silky! Steaming pour-over coffee, vanilla biscotti, and cream cheese coffee cake overwhelm my taste buds in a surprising and enjoyable way. The mid palate presents a nuanced flavor of hay and "craft", standing tall and proud as a lovely heat and cinnamon sugar spiced finish rounds out my first sip. The linger is medium in length with flavors that remind me of ginger tea and melted sugar cubes. Another sip isn't as coffee-forward as the first and now welcomes in fruit tones: orange marmalade, and stewed plums drizzled with vanilla frosting. Additional sips blend the flavors already tasted while offering new ones along the way, with pops of root beer, hot chocolate, and semi-sweet whipped cream. The cinnamon and underlying orange tones remain the common thread among the other mingling notes. The lingering layers, with each sip, leave behind earth tones, like corn husks and spring rain. As I approach my final sip, the flavors begin to join as one, tying a lovely bow on this tasting experience. TL;DR: Expect a comfortable and enticing flavor profile with a silky smooth palate Rating:  3.5/5 Good enough. There's something to enjoy here. This is an excellent dram to liven up your taste buds while not overextending your palate into unfamiliar territory. The smell and taste of North Carolina grains are not masked or hidden, which may pose a challenge for some. With additional aging, I do think the aromas and flavors will shine in ways that could make this a wow-worthy whiskey. For that reason, Weldon Mills is absolutely on my radar! WRITTEN BY: JES SMYTH W ith what started as a genuine curiosity for the “water of life,” fiction writer and published author Jes Smyth has nurtured her enthusiasm for whiskey ever since. From learning the vast history of whiskey making to celebrating the passion of the industry, she tastes each sip with intention and purpose while expressing the intricacies of whiskey in a relatable and heartfelt way. She is thrilled to be a contributing writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com  and hopes her words will resonate with those ready to explore the beautiful world of whiskey.

Photo provided by Bardstown Bourbon Company January 27, 2026 (Bardstown, KY.)  — Bardstown Bourbon Company, one of the most innovative distillers in American whiskey, will reveal a comprehensive packaging transformation across its core portfolio this year. The bold new design reflects the brand's continued commitment to pushing the boundaries of bourbon while maintaining the exceptional quality standards of their award-winning American whiskey portfolio. Strategic Brand Evolution Enhances Retail Visibility with Palette That "Pops" on Shelf The packaging update marks a strategic visual evolution of Bardstown Bourbon that speaks not only to the forward-thinking ethos that defines the brand, but more clearly to the premium spirit within. The refined modernist aesthetic keeps the brand's signature bottle shape while introducing sophisticated design elements that strengthen the brand's positioning. Key design updates include: Enhanced Visibility on Shelf: Secondary labels and bold tyopgraphy, plus distinctive iconography Improved Product Clarity: Prominent designations and intuitive bar calls for each expression Refined Color System: Strengthens visual separation and SKU differentiation Premium Materials: Soft-touch label substrate adds density and distinction, elevating the bottle's feel and presence Authenticity through Iconography: Debossed topographical map nods to place of origin, offering a tactile bridge to Bardstown's push to challenge boundaries while honoring time-tested tradition Sealed with a heavier weighted cord, the elements merge thoughtful, minimalist design with genuine personality that ensures each expression "pops"—both on retail shelves and on the back bar. Thoughts and reactions from the Amongst the Whiskey team can be found at the bottom of this page . Strategic Redesign Furthers Brand's Innovation Strategy "Our new packaging amplifies what made us who we are: bold, innovative, transparent and high-quality. Every element, from our beautiful bottle to the premium materials, tells the story of our unwavering commitment to excellence while signaling our evolution as a brand that is ready to boldly step into the future," said Pete Marino, President of Lofted Spirits. "At Bardstown, we are constantly pushing ourselves to redefine what premium means in today's market while staying true to the values that earned our customers' trust. This packaging is another part of our promise that innovation and tradition can coexist beautifully, creating something that honors our legacy while writing the next chapter for our story." The push to redesign emerged as the brand scaled with nationwide distribution. While well-known within the whiskey industry, the packaging was recessive on the shelf and failed to provide clear differentiation between expressions. The project began with deep market research and national agency support before it was ultimately brought in-house and overseen by Design Director Ron Jasin. Bardstown Bourbon Company worked with international printing house Eurostampa , which specializes in premium spirits packaging. New Single Barrel Offering Included in Phased Rollout The refreshed design will begin rolling out in early spring on Bardstown's core productions: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Bottled-in-Bond, High Wheat Bourbon, and Kentucky Straight Rye. Later in the year, the refreshed design will expand to the brand's Single Barrel Program, Discovery Series, and award-winning brand collaborations. Along with redesigned packaging, a new single-barrel option will be added to the brand's by-the-barrel program. In addition to Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskeys, barrel buyers will not be able to select a Wheated Bourbon from the same 20% wheat recipe that comprises Bardstown's Bottled-in-Bond. This latest evolution signals not just a design update but a reaffirmation of Bardstown Bourbon Company's commitment to pushing the boundaries of bourbon through innovation, transparency, and world-class American whiskey. "The labels have changed. The standards haven't," said Dan Callaway, Master Blender. "Inside these beautiful bottles is the same award-winning whiskey—the consistent quality that defines our pursuit of what's possible." Thoughts from the Authors From Jes: If you were hunting bottles in 2023, then you may remember the moment when Bardstown Bourbon released its first core products. I certainly do, and they were quite difficult to find at first, and for good reason. The inaugural release of core products from a well-respected brand at a price that wouldn't make consumers second-guess pulling it from the shelf was exciting news! When I finally found the bottled-in-bond expression, I was elated. Aside from what I heard was going to be great bourbon, I absolutely adored the bottle design, particularly the back image of the tree. Unfortunately, the redesign eliminated this detail, the designs shown through to the back of the bottle, which was something I had actually considered a visual staple for Bardstown Bourbon. I will miss seeing the pretty artwork through the bottle, but as someone who enjoys clean, concise labeling and appreciates transparency right there on the label, I believe this design shift will further highlight Bardstown's diverse profile and visibility on shelves in a positive and necessary way. From Nick: This label is definitely eye-catching, with that front label highlighting what people really need to know at a glance. The wheated bourbon enthusiast, in particular, might be more apt to try or buy when they see that bright blue, textured topographical background with the bold "high wheat" that gives them a raised eyebrow. What I appreciate most is that the transparent origin details, mash bills, age, and blending percentages all remain accessible to the more curious connoisseur. While my gut reaction is probably somewhat resistant to the change, favoring the detail-rich lore that Bardstown Bourbon Co. was built on, I understand the need to remain accessible to everyone in order to scale your business beyond the small cross-section of whiskey geeks who might typically peruse this site. I know I'll be looking out for their rye whiskey in 2026 and beyond. About Bardstown Bourbon Bardstown Bourbon Company is pushing the boundaries of innovation while honoring the traditional art of making great whiskey. With the most modern, technically advanced whiskey distillery, Bardstown Bourbon combines the highest quality distillation and spirited hospitality into a modern, authentic bourbon experience unlike any other on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail™. Bardstown Bourbon Co. Is working to push the entire Industry In a direction that is more innovative, more transparent, and more collaborative. Bardstown Bourbon was named Icons of Whiskey Global Brand Innovator of the Year (2025), IWSC's Worldwide Whiskey Producer of the Year (2023), and the only brand represented on Whisky Advocate's Top 20 list in five different years (2019, 2021-2025). Bardstown Bourbon Co. It is a part of Lofted Spirits, one of the largest American Whiskey distilleries in the U.S. For more information, visit BardstownBourbon.com and  find a bottle near you  today.  Written by: The Amongst the Whiskey Team NICK ANDERSON & JES SMYTH

Sweet Staggy Stagg! This phrase, often said in the voice of Norbert from the old Nickelodeon cartoon Angry Beavers , is a nostalgic line you'll often hear from me, a self-proclaimed Stagg man. As the eponymous hero of the Stagg Hub, my goal will be to keep this page up to date with all the latest releases of both Stagg Jr (which no longer features the "Jr" on the label as of the batch 18 release) and the more senior George T. Stagg (a staple of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, or BTAC for short). If all the batches, proofs, and years have you confused, read on and keep this page bookmarked for easy reference in the future! If you don't want to scroll through the introductions and background details that will follow, feel free to use the links below to jump down to the release tables: Stagg Junior Batch List George T. Stagg Release List Please note these are best viewed in non-mobile format on a computer browser. The History Sketch of George T. Stagg The origin story for this brand harkens all the way back to 1835, when George T. Stagg was born in central Kentucky. George would come to be known as " The Ultimate Salesman ." After starting his early life in the shoe industry, George would find himself transitioning into and excelling in a life of Army work. At the conclusion of his service in the Civil War, George struck up selling Kentucky whiskey in Missouri with a business partner named James Gregory. This business put George in contact with many of the successful Kentucky distillers, one of which was Colonel Edmund Haines Taylor, Jr.—another name you should recognize from the Buffalo Trace portfolio. Taylor, falling on some hard times in the distilling business, ended up owing Stagg a substantial sum of money. Stagg, ever the opportunist, turned a tough situation into a business opportunity. He wiped the debts that Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr owed and, in return, took ownership of both of Taylor's distilleries: the O.F.C. Distillery and the Carlisle Distillery. They worked together as pseudo-partners for a time, though Stagg was ultimately the majority shareholder in all their ventures, including the E.H. Taylor Jr. Company, which was founded in 1879. This relationship would unfortunately not last, with Taylor parting ways and going off to run the Old Taylor Distillery, which is now owned and operated by Castle & Key at the time of writing. A 1917 distilled bourbon from the Geo. T. Stagg Distillery The more notable of the named distilleries in connection to this story is the O.F.C. Distillery, O.F.C. standing for a few names that Taylor used interchangeably: Old Fashioned Copper and Old Fire & Copper. After Taylor's separation and a number of hot-button lawsuits between the two Kentucky gentlemen, the O.F.C. Distillery and other holdings would be renamed under 'George C. Stagg and Co.' in 1890. With his health on the decline at this time, he chose to retire this same year. George T. Stagg would live to be 58 years old, passing away in 1893. His distillery would live on in his name, with 1904 seeing the distillery become "The George T. Stagg Distillery," which is sometimes shortened to "Geo Stagg" in print. This would notably be one of the distilleries that was allowed to remain open through prohibition. An example of this distillery's whiskey, bottled in 1928 as a ripe old 11.5 year bourbon, was opened, studied, savored, and enjoyed when I last got together with my dear friend Gregory Cloyd. What an honor it was to taste, learn, and respect the history of George T. Stagg in liquid form! In 1929, the distillery was bought by the spirits goliath Schenley, which I've also written about , as they then continued to produce whiskey under the new prohibition rules. This distillery was likely one of Schenley's powerhouse Kentucky producers, though they were making all kinds of spirits for the next handful of decades. Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky As the history of the man behind the name began to fade with the inexorable passage of time, the distillery would once again change hands in 1992, when the Sazerac Company purchased it. The name would become Buffalo Trace Distillery in 1999, apparently due to this location by the bank of the Kentucky River being an ancient Buffalo crossing. That takes us to today, where the same distillery now distills, ages, and crafts whiskey under several of the historical brandings associated with related prominent whiskey figures. The recipes, people, and equipment have all been replaced and modernized, though, meaning the whiskey produced today is not necessarily the same as what came before. So from the perspective of someone who has tasted the old stuff, you might be wondering about my opinion on Stagg bourbon as it stands today. Well, my dear reader, you're in luck, as I make it a point to write about as many of these releases as I can. Whenever I have completed my own review of any of these releases, I will also include a link to it. If you'd like to share a batch I haven't reviewed yet, I'd be glad to be able to offer my thoughts on a shared sample. For now, let's jump into the nitty-gritty details on everything Stagg bourbon! Stagg Junior The ever-bold Stagg Junior, now just simply 'Stagg', is the uncut, unfiltered Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey produced from Buffalo Trace's mash bill # 1. This is the same mash bill used in the flagship Buffalo Trace, Colonel Taylor, Eagle Rare, and Benchmark bourbon variants. These bourbons are non-aged-stated (NAS), though widely assumed to be 8-12 year blends, which I would attest to based on my experience with these batches through the years. Some batches sip older and some taste a bit younger, but given the notes I've drawn from these, 8-12 years feels like the right range. All grown up - Stagg Jr loses the junior designation in 2022 In an interesting rebranding, Buffalo Trace decided to drop the 'Jr' from the label on the summer release in 2022, despite this release having all the hype and respect in the world behind it with the old name. They have also begun to add their own batch naming convention as of the Winter batch in 2022, which is really where the confusion starts but also hopefully ends. Since they are taking matters into their own hands, there isn't a clean continuity, as you'll see in the table below. There is at least a robust and repeatable system for the future, so if you're looking at a newer bottling on the shelf, you'll want to look at the bottom right portion of the front label for the batch information. Company on Label:  Buffalo Trace Whiskey Type:  Kentucky Straight Bourbon Mash Bill Percentages: Buffalo Trace Mash Bill # 1 (Low Rye < 10%) Proof:  Varies, thus far between 125.9° and 134.4° Age:  NAS (Rumored to be around 8 years) Further identification: Stagg (Junior) normally releases twice per year, a winter and a summer release, but since 2023's new naming convention was put in place and we have now seen a "C" batch land within the calendar year, and now in 2024 there's even a "D" batch that dropped; while this hopefully means more accessability of these batches, I hope it doesn't come at the cost of quality Power Ranking All the Best Stagg Batches Amongst The Whiskey's Top Stagg Jr Batches (Click to Expand) 1: Batch 12 2: Batch 17 3: Batch 14 4: Batch 18 5: Batch 15 6: Batch 25A 7: Batch 23A 8: Batch 5 9: Batch 22A 10: Batch 16 11: Batch 25B 12: Batch 24A 13: Batch 24B 14: Batch 22B 15: Batch 24D 16: Batch 25C 17: Batch 23B 18: Batch 23C 19: Batch 25D 20: Batch 13 21: Batch 24C Stagg Jr Batch Information: All the Proofs and Release Dates Key: Batch — Proof / ABV — Release Date 25D  — 129.2° / 64.6% — Winter 2025 25C — 125.6° / 62.8% — Winter 2025 25B — 126.9° / 63.45% — Winter 2025 25A — 126.5° / 63.25% — Summer 2025 24D — 127.4° / 63.7% — Winter 2024 24C — 128.9° / 64.45% — Winter 2024 24B — 127.8° / 63.9% — Winter 2024 24A — 127.6° / 63.8% — Summer 2024 23C — 125.9° / 62.95% — Late Winter 2023 23B — 127.8° / 63.9% — Winter 2023 23A — 130.2° / 65.1% — Summer 2023 22A — 132.2° / 66.1% — Spring 2023 Batch 19 * — 130° / 65% — Winter 2022 *Labeling changed to "22B" Batch 18 * — 131° / 65.5% — Summer 2022 * First Stagg Batch Without “Junior” Batch 17 — 128.7° / 64.35% — Winter 2021 Batch 16 — 130.9° / 65.45% — Summer 2021 Batch 15 — 131.1° / 65.55% — Winter 2020 Batch 14 — 130.2° / 65.1% — Summer 2020 Batch 13 — 128.4° / 64.2% — Winter 2019 Batch 12 — 132.3° / 66.15% — Summer 2019 Batch 11 — 127.9° / 63.95% — Winter 2018 Batch 10 — 126.4° / 63.2% — Summer 2018 Batch 9 — 131.9° / 65.95% — Winter 2017 Batch 8 — 129.5° / 64.75% — Summer 2017 Batch 7 — 130.0° / 65% — Winter 2016 Batch 6 — 132.5° / 66.25% — Summer 2016 Batch 5 — 129.7° / 64.85% — Winter 2015 Batch 4 — 132.2° / 66.1% — Summer 2015 Batch 3 — 132.1° / 66.05% — Winter 2014 Batch 2 — 128.7° / 64.35% — Summer 2014 Batch 1 — 134.4° / 67.2% — Winter 2013 George T. Stagg The more senior, older-age bourbon from Buffalo Trace bears the historical name George T. Stagg. As of the more recent bottlings, the inside of the back label features a sketch of Stagg himself  that can be seen once the bottle has been sufficiently consumed to reveal the image. First introduced in 2002 in response to a growing consumer demand for well-aged barrel proof whiskey, this has become a yearly staple of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. Is Stagg the King of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection? What this release also does really well is layer in a level of transparency that is non-normal for Buffalo Trace and Sazerac as a whole, with the antique collection seeing a release letter that accompanies each year's vintage. These letters feature information such as the year of distillation, release timing, proof, mash bill grain sources, fermentation specs, distillation techniques, aging locations, evaporative loss, and aging specifics. All of the released letters can be viewed and downloaded at the bottom of this page . Company on Label:  Buffalo Trace Whiskey Type:  Kentucky Straight Bourbon Mash Bill Percentages: Buffalo Trace Mash Bill # 1 (Low Rye < 10%) Proof:  Varies, between 116.9° and 144.8° Age:  Varies, between 15-18 years Further identification: George T. Stagg, a critical component of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC), releases once per year, other than the notable exceptions of a multi-release in 2005 and no release in 2021 due to a lack of quality barrels ; while the release year isn't distinctly called out on a bottle of George T. Stagg, you can figure out your release year by reading the laser code , or by using the proof table below Power Ranking the George T. Stagg Releases Amongst the Whiskey's Top George T. Stagg Releases Ranked (Click to Expand) 1: 2025 2: 2024 3: 2020 4: 2022 5: 2019 6: 2008 7: 2023 George T. Stagg Releases by Year, Proof, and Age Key: Release Year — Proof — Age 2025 — 142.8° — 15 years, 4 months 2024 — 136.1° — 15 years, 2 months 2023 — 135.0° — 15 years, 3 months 2022 — 138.7° — 15 years, 5 months 2021 — No release — N/A 2020 — 130.4° — 15 years, 4 months 2019 — 116.9° — 15 years, 3 months 2018 — 124.9° — 15 years, 4 months 2017 — 129.2° — 15 years, 3 months 2016 — 144.1° — 15 years, 4 months 2015 — 138.2° — 15 years, 1 month 2014 — 138.1° — 16 years, 4 months 2013 — 128.2° — 15 years, 11 months 2012 — 142.8° — 16 years, 9 months 2011 — 142.6° — 18 years, 5 months 2010 — 143.0° — 17 years, 7 months 2009 — 141.4° — 16 years, 7 months 2008 — 141.8° — 15 years, 6 months 2007 — 144.8° — 15 years, 6 months 2006 — 140.6° — 16 years, 3 months 2005 (Fall) — 141.2° — 15 years, 4 months 2005 (Spring, Lot A – Kentucky) — 130.9° — 16 years, 8 months 2005 (Spring, Lot B – All States) — 131.8° — 16 years, 8 months 2004 — 129.0° — 16 years 2003 — 142.7° — 15 years 2002 — 137.6° — 15 years George T. Stagg Release Letters I hope this was a helpful article for you. Don't forget to bookmark this page, share it with your friends in the whiskey community, and join the conversation below!

I tasted this alongside an E.H. Taylor Small Batch as a bit of a bottled-in-bond battle. This was my first opening of the Heaven Hill BiB. I try not to review neck pours, but this is one of them where I did. Read the follow-up pour of E.H. Taylor Small Batch here . Company on Label: Heaven Hill Whiskey Type: Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey Mash Bill Percentages: 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley Proof: 100° Age: 7 years Further identification: I purchased this in early 2021 and reviewed it within the same year Nose: Bright, sweet, dry vanilla. Something else attached to it that resembles the smell of a fresh stack of paper. Candied apple. White pepper. A tobacco that is very light and masked in a touch of ethanol. Dry, old oak. Definitely primarily driven by vanilla & white pepper. Some extra char here yields a marshmallow note I've thoroughly enjoyed out of some Elijah Craig offerings. Some light raisin notes round this nose out well. Late nose is most enjoyable; it turns all sweet. Palate: Wow, unironically smooth. Incredibly balanced mouthfeel on first sip, with the pepper and a light zest forming in the center of the tongue. Vanilla is a permanent fixture around the rest of the mouth coating. This drinks just ridiculously silky smooth. The marshmallow bits of char here mix well with a rich plum. No matter how I chew this, I can't elicit any bite. The vanilla and paper I experienced on the nose crescendos very intensely on these chews, however. The linger is intensely long, driven by a recently acquired vanilla sweet lemon cake that breathes through my airways for the better part of a minute. The overall vibe is definitely explosive vanilla notes. Rating: 4/5 This is a whiskey that has stood the test of time. With consistently great vanilla flavors, this is one of the best values in bourbon still today. WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With over a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

“Waste no more time arguing what a good man should be. Be one.” – Marcus Aurelius When I heard this year's George T. Stagg release crossed over the threshold beyond the magic hazmat number, I knew I had to track one down. While the bourbon hunt was a little slower to produce this year, the generosity of the whiskey community turned up strong. My dear friend Matt Long, also known as @rarewhiskeynomad or "Hazzmatty," sent along a sample for review. Matt runs an incredible community called The Whiskey Coalition , which I'm glad to be a part of. His family Christmas card this year was an easy 5/5 for me, and I am deeply grateful for his kindness as always in sharing this. You would be hard-pressed to find a more magnanimous man than Matt. He's the kind of guy that would make Marcus Aurelius proud. With my review of the 2024 George T. Stagg turning up a perfect score, let's see if 2025 can live up to the pinnacle quality that is expected out of a bottle from the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. After Matt sent along this sample, I was able to track down a bottle of my own, which enabled me to taste this three times prior to my final review in accordance with my editorial policy . Tasting this side by side with the 2024 release enabled a thorough review and a well-reasoned rating, which you'll find below! Company on Label:  Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, Kentucky Whiskey Type:  Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey Mash Bill Percentages:  Undisclosed Buffalo Trace mash bill # 1 (high corn, low rye, and malted barley) Proof:  142.8° Age:  15 years, 4 months Buy online:   Frootbat Further identification:  The 2025 George T. Stagg specs are detailed in their yearly release letter: Nose:  The nose leads with bold rickhouse funk, laden with rich caramel tones that exude an immediate elegance. While the complexity takes a little while to warm up, I start finding raspberry meringue roulade and vanilla tones first before the pervasive oak begins to let more notes free from its grasp. Light chocolate and confectioners' sugar dance in the nostrils. Sun-warmed farm fields come to mind as I inhale with happy, closed eyes. While there's allspice, black pepper, and clove aromas, they have all been softened by the chocolate tones, the general creaminess, and a wonderful aroma of homemade bread baking in the oven. I cannot believe how exquisite this feels in the nose without a hint of heat or any of the hazmat proof. After a patient rest, a mixed berry fruit compote tone begins to develop, giving texture that wasn't there before. Blueberry pie and stewed apricot build well on deep inhales. I am still amazed by the approachability here... After finally jumping into a sip, I return to a nose filled with beignets, molasses, and just a dab of butterscotch. An infinitely long inhale plays the story above on repeat, inducing only smiles and chills. The empty glass smells of cherry bounce and warm, bakery-sweet monkey bread. Palate:  My first sip shows up in a big way with more cherry than I know what to do with. It's juicy and mouthwatering on the tongue like sucking on a Jolly Rancher before coconut and cream shimmer off in the elegant linger. This is a beast of a bourbon that doesn't seem to taste like previous releases. The added nuance of that really fun coconut layer definitely sets this bottle apart in my mind. Another sip to reground me shows off decadent caramel monkey bread and cinnamon swirl sourdough. Goodness, this is good. The central theme of this pour is definitely that luscious cherry characteristic, which weaves its way throughout the entire experience. Sipping later into the dram reveals more candy shop sweetness, now leaning towards Sweet Tarts and Smarties, two nostalgic hits from my upbringing. I admit I am taking the smallest sips possible to preserve every minute of this pour, because this is damn delicious whiskey. Another poke into the glass as the liquid level is getting painfully low produces crème de menthe pie and a new layer of creamy caramel. My last sip is like a fond farewell to a friend with bodacious pear tart, nutmeg, peach flambé, and cherry dump cobbler layering out like a kneading cat in an infinitely long finish. TL;DR: Cherry for days on an elegant and refined profile that belies the hazmat proof Rating:  5/5 Pinnacle whiskey. A true rarity in quality. After having a taste of this, my desire to hunt down a bottle was multiplied tenfold. I am grateful to have done so since then, and this enabled a deeper understanding of the inherent quality of this incredible bourbon. Comparing this pour to the 2024 George T. Stagg tells me everything I need to know. The 2025 release is better in every way, unless you are looking for a bit of that punchiness. If you like a whiskey that smacks you around a little bit, the 2024 is going to do that a bit better. As far as depth of flavor, evolution through complexity, and refined elegance, the 2025 bottling of George T. Stagg is a perfect whiskey in every way. This just might be the bourbon of the year. WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With over a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

“The wise are instructed by reason, average minds by experience, the stupid by necessity, and the brute by instinct.” – Marcus Tullius Cicero If you are on the hunt for Stagg this year, you have come to the right place. I have had the good fortune of trying most of the existing Stagg Jr. releases through the years and regularly recalibrate my ratings against previous batches. You'll find my full power ranking at the Stagg Hub , your one-stop shop for all things Stagg Jr. and George T. Stagg. It has all the proofs, the rankings, the history, and more. It is through this lens that I am ready to examine the 3rd batch that was released at a strangely quick pace in the winter of 2025. 2025 Batches by Proof/ABV 25A : 126.5° / 63.25% 25B : 126.9° / 63.45% 25C : 125.6° / 62.8% 25D : 129.2° / 64.6% As I wrote in my review of batch 25D , I think Buffalo Trace needs to slow down on the release pace and hone back in on quality. I would much prefer to see two releases that knock my socks off than have to spend so much time informing folks which batches are worth scooping versus leaving on the shelf. Part of why I decided to go so deep on reviewing Stagg Jr. batches was because I was the guy standing in a liquor store back in 2018, staring at 5 different proofs without any sense of what the differences between them would be. I had no clue which ones were good or if any of them were worth haggling over. I am glad I took that risk back in the day, and I hope this review puts you in a more informed position than I found myself in back then. Company on Label:  Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, Kentucky Whiskey Type:  Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey Mash Bill Percentages:  Undisclosed Buffalo Trace mash bill # 1 (high corn, low rye, and malted barley) Proof:  125.6° Age:  NAS (though rumored to typically be around 8 years old) Buy online:   Frootbat Further identification:  This is the 25C batch of Stagg bourbon, which arrived in winter 2025 Nose:  As I get into my first smell of the glass, I find a wave of traditional bourbon caramel that runs right down the middle. Black pepper and allspice swing in gentle spice before a wave of decaying fall leaves takes over the experience. Long inhales are a bit metallic but settle into small pops of vanilla and caramel. I can't say I'm too excited yet nosing through, as the simple aromas come across a bit synthetic. After a long rest, things settle into a comfortable territory that is just simple, classic Buffalo Trace bourbon ramped up to a comfortable proof. Light toffee and candy wrapper aromas fill my nostrils late in the glass. The empty glass smells like graham crackers and vanilla Tootsie Rolls. Palate:  Putting glass to lips I find the black pepper and allspice the nose was touting, as well as the big sploosh of caramel that falls over the entire tongue in a scrawny, thin mouthfeel. Sampling again is a carbon copy of the first, a rather one-note caramel experience. Dutifully plumbing the depths reveals a bit of anise and burnt pancake scraps before a metallic linger takes over. For a seasoned Stagg Man, this is pretty disappointing overall, but if this was your first-ever Stagg batch, I don't think you would notice as much. Light raspberry tones start to ramp up late in the pour but fail to materialize in a meaningful way. As I continue to work through this pour, I find myself easily distracted with things other than the whiskey as it fails to capture my attention. My last sip is mundane yet enjoyable, with more vanilla tones proliferating on a medium-length finish. TL;DR: Crowd-pleasing, airy bourbon that doesn't quite suck Rating:  3/5 Middle of the road whiskey. An average showing. With 25D firmly in the dud category, 25C manages to elevate the experience quite a bit. While it doesn't soar as high as some other batches I have reviewed , if you can find this at MSRP, I am sure it'll be a crushable bottle for you and your friends to enjoy. If you are a more tenured enthusiast like me, you'll want to seek out batch 25A or 25B for a little more quality. If you find this style of honest review appealing, consider subscribing to my once-monthly newsletter , where I give the inside scoop on all kinds of whiskeys that are worth hunting as well as which ones to skip. Cheers! WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With over a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

“If the path be beautiful, let us not ask where it leads.” – Anatole France What do you do when one of your favorite local liquor stores has a bottle of Stagg Junior hiding in plain sight? First, you confirm it's available for sale at a reasonable price, and then you pop it with the folks at the shop, of course! That's exactly what I did with my friends over at Curtis Liquors in Weymouth, MA when I found this batch 25B hiding in the lockup case. With the foil peeled and cork popped, we were delighted with our first pour from a new batch, especially after how good batch 25A was. Whiskey always tastes better when you share it with good people. Since then, I've been dutifully working through this bottle, with a little help from my friends, of course. I have been a long time fan of Stagg Jr I was excited to get into 25B again, thinking it was going to be the great finale of 2025, until I heard news of new batches showing up again. Like 2024, it seems we were fated to have four releases. Batches 25C and 25D started to hit shelves at nuanced proofs, something I have tracked over time in my Stagg Hub article—well worth a bookmark if you haven't already. Of course I have since hunted those down and had all four on hand to compare and contrast. I'll give you my power rankings for 2025 down below, but you'll have to check out that Stagg Hub link to see how they feather into the broader release landscape. Company on Label:  Distilled, aged, & bottled by Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, Kentucky Whiskey Type:  Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey Mash Bill Percentages:  Undisclosed Buffalo Trace mash bill # 1 (high corn, low rye, and malted barley) Proof:  126.9° Age:  NAS (though rumored to typically be around 8 years old) Buy online:   Frootbat Further identification:  This is the 25B batch of Stagg bourbon, which arrived in winter 2025 Nose:  Oh yes... immediately I find a classic Stagg bourbon nose in this glass. With a widening smile, I pick up caramel apple and sweet rickhouse funk aromas. This is well balanced overall, allowing me to get my nose as far into the glencairn as I care to search, which is all the way, naturally. Level oak is pervasive and tells a tale of age and wisdom. Hints of fresh topsoil come to mind on long inhales. Floral characteristics build in neat little surprises along the way before ebbing away, revealing incredible sweet fruit. Nosing further, strawberry puree and orange creamsicle aromas tantalize and excite. This is a really fun pour so far. After a sip, the nose only gets better as more of those strawberry tones come in, bolstered by new sweetness that reminds me of fruit punch. Layer in the complexity of an underlying scent of root beer, and you've got a beautiful depth of aroma here. Late in the glass, the slow takeover of floral tones begins again, a wonderful evolution that continues to have staying power in this glass. The core characteristic continues to be a beautiful vanilla profile. The empty glass smells of waffles and light macadamia nuts. Palate:  On the tongue, ubiquitous sweetness from distinguished strawberry cake lands just right with a little bit of a kick at the end that reminds you this is barrel proof bourbon and not actually dessert. It's an exciting, rambunctious pour right from the get-go. Another sip is easier than the first, oozing orange marmalade before finishing with a tingling mouthfeel that feels like sucking down an ice-cold root beer float. The linger is quite solid, but not quite dialed up to maximum potential as light cola and indistinct breadiness fade to black. Subsequent sips reveal a continual array of balance and flavor, everything one should expect out of a well-made barrel proof bourbon. I'm finding loads of vanilla tones now, the back end of that orange creamsicle from the nose, but just lacking a little bit of that creaminess translating into the mouthfeel. Chewing a little further shows off that sweet fruit punch character, coming across more like Sweet Tarts now. I find myself taking small sips to savor this one fully, because it is hitting quite a few great notes right now. I am quite pleased as the orange creamsicle character returns with beautiful vengeance. My last sip is a complete treat as the simple vanilla profile reigns proud in its consistency. The finish is low and brooding but rumbles on quite long with nothing off, just a wave of candy sweetness as far as the mind can see. TL;DR: Batch 25B shows out strong with consistent core flavors and a little flair Rating:  4/5 Really good. I want one of these on my shelf. With how approachable this pour is and the flavors being on a range that I think folks will enjoy, 25B is definitely a beautiful batch worth hunting down if you can find it. If you like my long-form tasting notes, no-nonsense rating scale, or thorough tasting process, consider subscribing to my once-monthly newsletter so you don't miss out on the next best bourbon! Since I now have reviews done of all the 2025 batches, here is my power ranking: Batch 25A Batch 25B Batch 25C Batch 25D A neat little descent into madness, isn't it? WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With over a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

“The world is a dangerous place to live, not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don't do anything about it.” – Albert Einstein I love reviewing all the Stagg Junior releases whenever I can, but this shift towards four releases a year is getting a little ridiculous. Not only do I believe this has caused a significant slide in the general quality of these batches, as we saw with the 2024 releases, but it also makes understanding which ones are worth the hunt even more complicated for barrel proof bourbon enthusiasts. Lucky for you, I have all the 2025 batches in hand as well as many of the previous releases for comparison purposes. I have tasted them all side by side and now have three sober tastings under my belt for this particular batch, 25D. On with the review! Company on Label:  Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, Kentucky Whiskey Type:  Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey Mash Bill Percentages:  Undisclosed Buffalo Trace mash bill # 1 (high corn, low rye, malted barley) Proof:  129.2° Age:  NAS (though rumored to typically be around 8 years old) Buy online:   Frootbat Further identification:  This is the 25D batch of Stagg bourbon, which arrived in late winter 2025 Nose:  Immediately upon lifting the glass to my nose, I find a classic Kentucky bourbon rickhouse aroma—some of that dark, weathered wood we know and love. Another sniff doesn't do wonders beyond that, though I find a slight traditional Tootsie Roll aroma trying to poke out from behind the wood funk. Wafts of vanilla scream traditional bourbon through and through. After a sip, the nose is sharper, filled with black pepper aromas that tingle and steer the nose clear. Late in the glass, some hints of grilled pineapple and a light bit of lemon lollipop can be found if you really look. Earthiness joins the simple vanilla aroma that has persisted throughout this pour. The empty glass smells of musky wetlands and caramel. Palate:  My first sip is a little hot to the tongue, with classic Stagg cherry hots coming across a bit disjointed and jagged, a hallmark of an unharmonious blend. Another quick sip reveals more ethanol burn amidst light flavors of anise and cola. Unfortunately, what should be an array of great flavors demonstrated here are all lost on the dulling effects of harsh whiskey. Sipping further does nothing to improve the profile here, as I am left with a mouthful of a synthetic tingle with little of the accompanying joy that barrel proof bourbon traditionally brings. The synthetic feel sticks around on the linger like a synthetic sugar—think Sweet'n Low here, blegh. My last sip is one of the best, oddly, featuring toffee and vanilla yogurt. The finish is of a decent length, but with no volume, as chalky artificial vanilla reminds me of a poorly mixed protein shake. TL;DR: Expect muted flavors and unmitigated ethanol abound on this dud Rating:  2.5/5 Okay whiskey. Nothing special about this pour. With all heat and no sweet, this batch makes Stagg a dull boy. While some of the previous batches have lived up to the 8-12 year old bourbon range, this batch feels noticeably younger. With a noticeably short for my typically verbose tasting prose, I have to call this one a dud. Check out the batch power rankings on the Stagg Hub , and you'll see just how low this has sunk in the quality range for Stagg Junior. Bookmark that page while you're over there, as it will be continuously updated as new batches get released! WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With over a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.