Intro:
George T. Stagg built the most dominant American distillery of the 19th century, during a time known as the Gilded Age of Bourbon. Uncut and unfiltered, this robust bourbon whiskey ages for nearly a decade and boasts the bold character that is reminiscent of the man himself.
Review:
Nose - Not nearly as astringent as you would expect from a 130 proof bourbon. I pick up more char and barrel from the smell of this bourbon than any others I have sampled. It smells really good though and with large pulls I get a good sample of the vanilla.
Rub - More vanilla and a good downhome barn smell to boot. After a couple rub attempts, I start to pick up the nice yeast smell that reminds me of driving through Bardstown, KY when all the distilleries are making the magic!
Taste - I am holding the first sip in my mouth while I type this...about 30 seconds in and no heat on the lips or tongue. A pleasant and light cinnamon flavor and a bit of the vanilla. None of the char I got from the nose. The finish really presented itself in the chest and back of the tongue. Not unpleasant or unbearable, just reminding me this is a 130 proof! Very smooth for the ABV level. This bourbon just be setting my sinuses and mouth on fire, but it is spectacularly balanced.
Is it worth the $?
The Navy Exchange in Maryland got these in for $42 a pop and I bought 5. I do not regret the decision. It is well worth that price.