George T. Stagg Barrel Proof 1998 / 2014

George T. Stagg Barrel Proof 1998 / 2014, 16 YO, 69.05 %

This golden oldie was distilled Spring 1998 and bottled Fall 2014. It was matured in charred new white American oak barrels. The release was limited to 10849 bottles.

The George T. Stagg Barrel Proof 1998 / 2014 is a low rye bourbon (less than 10 % rye in the mashbill).

Nose: Wow! 69.05 % ABV and no alcohol sting on the nose! None whatsoever. Mild notes of strawberries, cherries, vanilla, maple syrup, white pepper and unsalted popcorn. With time mustard seed, marshmallows and a pinch of salt (well, it was needed for the popcorn, wasnt' it?).

Taste: Big as a house, and I want to live in it! Intense and highly concentrated. Maple syrup, polish, caramel and honey. Nuts, toasted oak and earthy vanilla. Chocolate with cherry jam filling.

Finish: Medium to long finish. Soo rich and and big all the way. The deep sweetness prevails. More fruity notes, in particular ripe apples, do come through towards the end, as well as softly green notes.

Comment: Mind blown. Happy. Shutting down.

Score 93/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas