George T. Stagg Bourbon 2024 136.1 Proof

This year’s George T. Stagg takes the bourbon’s typical base of flavors and builds off them, adding an array of dark fruit to the mix. On the nose, cinnamon and allspice meet black raspberry and a hint of pear, along with an unusual but prominent cherry cola note. Allspice and cinnamon flash on the palate initially, with typical flavors of leather, barrel char, caramel, and tobacco forging the midpalate. Accents of stone fruit and cherry add an unusual twist, and there’s an underlying nuttiness. As it finishes, intense spice at the onset sets the tone for warm, lingering heat. Barrel char, dry cherry, and a touch of baking chocolate add depth.

This is a satisfying edition of George T. Stagg bourbon. It has the usual core flavors, but adds layers of dark fruit that are somewhat atypical for the brand, at least at the level of intensity they’re delivered. It has some nice heat, but it doesn’t come across as intense as some of the past years, instead delivering a more balanced sip. It’s a dynamic, complex pour that speaks to past editions, but manages to forge new territory that’s all its own.