Barrel Proof Power Rankings: Stagg Jr. from Best to Worst

One of the most iconic bourbon whiskeys of the last 10 years, Stagg Jr is world-renowned as a powerhouse barrel-proof that defies the limits of hellish heat. For those with a penchant for fearsome fire, the original is surely the most exceptional that Stagg has released to date, weighing in at a hefty 134.4 proof (Fall, 2013). However, if you consider yourself something of a connoisseur, then perhaps a more balanced bouquet will pique your fancy, such as the Fall, 2015 Batch 5, still no slouch, but with a slightly more robust silhouette that patters faintly with hints of cherry, cinnamon, and rich cocoa.

Whichever side of the coin you land on, no two rankings of Stagg's first 15 batches will be the same, and even after a second tasting, there are no guarantees that your original order would remain untouched. Nevertheless, here is our take on the barrel-proof power rankings - today, ranking Stagg Jr's first 15 batches from best to worst.

Batch 3 (Fall, 2014) – 132.1 Proof

Third time's the charm. For many, Stagg Jr's Batch 3 release in Fall 2014 was the most considered and complete of the initial three and looking back, it is the most exciting and well-rounded fireball of frenzy in their catalog. A truly formidable bourbon whiskey that managed to combine the intense, incredible heat for which Stagg was quickly gaining cult status and acclaim, but with a more refined, subdued bouquet of flavors and a more robust, complex profile. Lashings of cherry were prevalent, not seen before in a Stagg Jr bottle, beautifully balanced by the abundance of sweet vanilla before a mouthfeel reminiscent of buttery silk - there's a good reason why Batch 3 remains a fan favorite among collectors and whiskey buffs.

Batch 2 (Spring, 2014) – 128.7 Proof 

The second coming. The highly anticipated follow-up to Stagg Jr's original release, the 2014 Spring release Batch 2 is perhaps the rarest and most sought-after iteration of all Stagg Jr bottles in circulation. The perfect storm of hot heat, bold flavor, and refined sophistication, Batch 2 is an acclaimed and audacious bourbon whiskey that represents the very very best of Stagg's very best characteristics.

Batch 5 (Fall, 2015) – 129.7 Proof

Batch 5 was a bourbon to fall in love with. Widely regarded as one of Stagg Jr's best releases amongst barrel-proof connoisseurs, Batch 5 is decadent and delicious, imbued with rich cocoa, smooth vanilla and shadows of the inspired cherry, cinnamon, and molasses seen in previous batches. Clove and pepper are present and bring a newfound degree of charisma to the hot, hard-hitting bourbon, while this familiar heat works harmoniously with a complex array of flavors to produce a bourbon that is simply sublime.

Batch 1 (Fall, 2013) – 134.4 Proof

The bottle that started it all, Batch 1 set the tone for every subsequent release, inspiring the robust and rich complexion of Batches 2-15, and sending fans of fiery warmth alight. Unfiltered, uncut, unrelenting. The original, iconic Stagg Jr. and by far the most potent and punchy batch to have been released, Batch 1 is a true tour de force when it comes to heat and firepower, and there is no doubting its impact on the whiskey world since its release - a must-have for those with a passion for innovative Kentucky whiskey.

Batch 8 (Spring, 2017) – 129.5 Proof

Otherworldly oakiness. Another stupendous release from Stagg Jr, Batch 8 is perhaps the most fruity and flavorsome to come from the entire catalog. While the heat is prevalent and captivating (without bordering on the overwhelming), considered allusions to Buffalo Trace's familiar passion fruit, mango and orange notes can be found here, while there is ample sweetness, spice, and a deep, overarching oakiness. Arguably the most interesting and unusual release from Stagg Jr's lengthy portfolio, Batch 8 is a masterpiece of creative, surprising, and inspired whiskey craftsmanship.

Batch 6 (Spring, 2016) – 132.5 Proof

A welcoming punch in the face. Extreme heat and grandiose flavor are the defining characteristics of Stagg Jr's Batch 6 release, a heavyweight that offers exceptional, and almost awakening levels of heat and spice, which somehow manage to avoid overwhelming nuanced hints of sweet cream, toffee, and vanilla. There is something different about the cherry in Batch 6 that sets it apart from the rest, as if it has taken on a candy-like form. This becomes a near perfect foil for the robust and rich body, making for an out-of-body experience-inducing bourbon.

Batch 4 (Spring, 2015) – 132.2 Proof

Assured and astute. By Spring of 2015, Stagg Jr well and truly knew what they were doing and the well-oiled machine began to start producing some of the finest barrel-proof whiskeys in the world - enter Batch 4. Impressively balanced, true to its roots, and beset with a layered sense of spice, succulence, and smoothness, Batch 4 is not to be missed and finishes like it begins, with purpose.

Batch 14 (Summer, 2020) – 130.2 Proof 

Bold, brazen, brilliant. Arguably more balanced and better appointed than the George T. Stagg release of the same year, Stagg Jr's Batch 14 dominates the palate with a punchy proof that's stunningly paired with a rich, molasses-like mouthfeel and understated hints of cherry, vanilla, oak, and brown sugar. A classic Stagg Jr release, and a must-have for collectors of BT's mashbill 1.

Batch 11 (Winter, 2018) – 127.9 Proof

A true winter warmer. The first Stagg Jr. release to coincide with the Winter months, Batch 11 is shaped by the season and is a warming, welcoming bourbon with a sumptuous bite and effervescent, vicious character. Characterized by toffee, maple, and bitter chocolate notes, as well as hints of cola-like molasses, oak, and vanilla, this is one of the most complex and rewarding releases to come out of the Stagg Jr bourbon house.

Batch 10 (Spring, 2018) – 126.4 Proof

Spritely and seductive. One of the lighter and more drinkable Stagg Jr releases, Batch 10 represents a slight departure from the oft 130+ proof recipe which the brand is known for. Uncut, unfiltered, and using the same BT no. 1 mashbill as all previous releases, Batch 10 features brighter cherry and fruit notes and is perhaps more representative of the season in which it was bottled, Spring. A divine barrel-proof bourbon that is still no slouch on heat, for those who have experienced the heavy-hitting power of Stagg, Batch 10 is highly recommended.

Batch 15 (Winter, 2020) – 131.1 Proof

Heavy-hitting and hearty. Another scintillating release from Stagg Jr, Batch 15 is a rich and robust bourbon defined by lush praline and brown sugar, powerful potency on the palate, and a long luscious finish that's beautifully complemented by nuanced orange peel, pepper, and oak notes. Staying true to the recipe that has made Stagg Jr a household name, Batch 15 is not to be missed by collectors and connoisseurs.

Batch 13 (Fall, 2019) – 128.4 Proof

Ruthlessly rich. Instilled with a familiar flavor profile that brings forth exceptional complexity and balance, Batch 13 is one of the most informed and complete Stagg Jr releases and represents the culmination of the rich, sweet and spicy heat for which Stagg has become renowned. A finish that knows no bounds and a subtle smokiness that inspires and tantalizes the palate, Batch 13 is a remarkable release and must-have for collectors.

Batch 12 (Summer, 2019) – 132.3 Proof 

Fiery and fearsome. Oozing with class and charisma, the 12th iteration of Stagg Jr is beset with an impressive and eye-watering heat - clocking in at 132.2 proof the 3rd highest of all Stagg Jr releases thus far. While hot and undoubtedly spicy, it remains true to the beautifully appointed character for which Stagg is lauded.

Batch 9 (Fall, 2017) – 131.9 Proof

Powerful and pronounced. Aged for almost 10 years and bottled at an eye-watering 131.9 proof, Stagg Jr's Batch 9 Barrel Proof bats well above average - boasting sophisticated complexity and unadulterated potency. A heavy hitter with a whole lot of heat, this is one of the great vintage pieces of Buffalo Trace history and a damn fine and damn fiery bourbon whiskey.

Batch 7 (Fall, 2016) – 130.0 Proof

Potent and punchy. Not for the faint-hearted, Stagg Jr's Batch 7 clocks in at a staggering 130 proof and is truly a force to be reckoned with. Barrel-aged for nearly a decade, expect a palate experience like no other, bursting with fiery flavor and a prolonged, pronounced finish.