15+ years. Uncut. Unfiltered. 124.9 proof straight from the barrel. The 2018 release of one of the most decorated bourbons ever made.

George T. Stagg is part of Buffalo Trace’s annual Antique Collection a release so anticipated that it sells out within hours every year and commands significant premiums on the secondary market. The 2018 edition came in at 124.9 proof, bottled directly from barrels aged no less than 15 years with zero dilution and no chill filtration. What you’re getting is the bourbon exactly as it existed in the barrel.

The 2018 received a 5-star Highest Recommendation from F. Paul Pacult’s Spirit Journal and a 96.5 from Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible, described as one of the whiskeys of the year. At this proof and age, it rewards patience a few drops of water opens the profile considerably and is how most serious drinkers prefer it.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep, dark amber with exceptional legs.
• Aroma: Lush toffee, dark chocolate, vanilla, fudge, and molasses. Intense and layered.
• Palate: Full-throttle and rich dark berries, dates, tobacco, nougat, spearmint, and a hint of coffee. The proof is present but never harsh.
• Finish: Extraordinarily long. Bold and warming with lingering caramel, oak, and dark spice.

Critical Acclaim

• F. Paul Pacult’s Spirit Journal: 5 Stars / Highest Recommendation “Amazing, yet again.”
• Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible: 96.5 “One of the whiskeys of the year, easily.”

Specs

• Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, Kentucky
• Age: Minimum 15 years
• Proof: 124.9 (62.45% ABV)
• Bottling: Uncut, unfiltered, straight from the barrel
• Size: 750ml
• Release: 2018 Buffalo Trace Antique Collection

Browse the full George T. Stagg collection or explore all bourbon at Wooden Cork.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What proof is the 2018 George T. Stagg? The 2018 release is bottled at 124.9 proof (62.45% ABV), uncut and unfiltered directly from the barrel.
• Should I add water to George T. Stagg? Yes, most serious drinkers recommend a few drops of water to open up the nose and soften the proof. Start neat, then add water gradually to find your preferred expression.
• How does the 2018 compare to other Stagg vintages? The 2018 is widely considered one of the stronger recent releases, earning a 96.5 from Jim Murray. Vintage variation is real with Stagg proof, age, and barrel selection differ each year, which is part of what makes each release collectible.
• Is George T. Stagg part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection? Yes. George T. Stagg is one of five annual releases in the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, alongside William Larue Weller, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye, Sazerac 18 Year, and Eagle Rare 17 Year.

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