Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch ’22A’ 132.2 Proof

Stagg Bourbon Kentucky Straight Whiskey Batch ’22A’ (132.2 Proof): The Ultimate Guide

In the storied world of American Kentucky whiskey, few announcements stirred as much discussion as the 2022 revelation from Buffalo Trace Distillery: Stagg Jr. was no more. In its place stood simply, Stagg. This wasn’t a discontinuation, but a promotion—a recognition that the “Jr.” moniker no longer suited a bourbon that had spent nearly a decade establishing itself as a benchmark of barrel-proof excellence. The first release under this new banner was Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch ’22A’, a 132.2-proof statement that the legacy was not just continuing, but evolving.

This bottle represents a pivotal moment in modern bourbon history. It carries the weight of its esteemed predecessors while boldly stepping into a new era. For collectors, it’s the first chapter in a new collectible series. For connoisseurs, it’s a chance to taste how a beloved profile matures under a new identity. At Rare Finds Liquor Store, we recognize the significance of such transitional releases. This definitive guide explores Stagg Batch 22A in its entirety, from the story behind its rebranding to the formidable tasting experience that proves this bourbon has well and truly earned its name.

The Heritage – From Stagg Jr. to Stagg

To understand the significance of Stagg Batch 22A, one must first appreciate the journey of the brand itself. The Buffalo Trace Distillery has long been a titan of the industry, and its Mash Bill #1 is the engine behind some of its most robust and age-worthy expressions.

The original George T. Stagg, a cornerstone of the legendary Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC), is a bourbon of almost mythical proportions, often aged over 15 years. Stagg Jr. was introduced in 2013 as its more accessible, younger sibling—a vibrant, barrel-proof bourbon that offered a glimpse into the Stagg profile without the extended wait. Over 17 batches, it cultivated a fervent following and critical acclaim.

The removal of the “Jr.” for the 2022 release was a symbolic graduation. It signaled that the whiskey had achieved a level of maturity and consistency that warranted standing alongside its namesake without qualification. This wasn’t a change in recipe, but a change in status—a recognition that this was no longer a “junior” anything, but a premier Stagg bourbon whiskey in its own right.

The Batch 22A Blueprint – A New Era Begins

As the inaugural release under the new name, Stagg Batch 22A had a heavy burden to bear. It needed to assure enthusiasts that the quality they loved was not only preserved but elevated.

Key Specifications of Stagg Batch 22A:

• Release Date: 2022

• Proof: 132.2 Proof (66.1% ABV)

• Batch Designation: 22A (Denoting the first release of 2022)

• Mash Bill: #1

• Age: No formal age statement, but consistent with the series’ estimated 7-9 year age range.

The Stagg Batch 22A proof of 132.2 is a statement of intent. It is one of the highest-proof releases in the series’ history, boldly asserting that the rebranding was not an excuse to dial back the intensity. The original Stagg bourbon price at release maintained the series’ reputation for value, though as the first of its kind, its collectibility has significantly influenced its market value.

Tasting Notes & Review – The Legacy Intensified

A Stagg Batch 22A review must answer one crucial question: does it live up to its new name? The resounding answer from the bourbon community has been yes. It retains the core identity of the series while delivering a particularly powerful and layered experience worthy of the Stagg title.

Tasting Profile for Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Batch 22A)

Nose:
The aroma is a bold and complex overture that commands respect. It erupts from the glass with a powerful blend of dark chocolate, black cherry, and caramelized pecans. The high-proof ethanol is present but integrated, carrying waves of vanilla extract, seasoned oak, and a distinct note of cinnamon bark. Allowing it to rest reveals deeper layers of toffee, orange zest, and a hint of tobacco leaf. The overall impression is dense, rich, and sophisticated, with the proof promising a robust palate.

Palate:
The palate is a full-frontal assault of flavor that is both intense and intricately layered. The mouthfeel is thick, viscous, and coating—the very definition of “chewy.” The entry is a massive wave of cherry cola, dark brown sugar, and baking spices. The mid-palate expands with authority, revealing complexities of espresso bean, dark chocolate, and a robust, charred oak character. The 132.2 proof is felt as a deep, evolving warmth that carries flavors of black pepper and clove, perfectly framing the core sweetness without becoming abrasive. It’s a demanding but immensely rewarding sip that engages the entire palate.

Finish:
The finish is epic in length and warmth. It lingers for minutes, slowly evolving from sweet to spicy to dry. The initial burst of cherry and chocolate gradually recedes, making way for a lingering resonance of oak tannins, dark cocoa, and a peppery spice. The signature “Kentucky hug” is profound and long-lasting, a comforting warmth that spreads across the chest. It concludes with a final, clean note of spearmint and leather, leaving the palate clean yet haunted by the memory of its intensity.

Overall Review:
Stagg Batch 22A is a triumphant debut for the renamed series. It successfully argues that the removal of “Jr.” was justified, presenting a bourbon of formidable power, depth, and complexity. It leans into the darker, oak-driven side of the Mash Bill #1 profile, offering less of the bright fruit found in some earlier batches and more of a deep, brooding character. It is not a bourbon for the faint of heart, but for the enthusiast seeking an uncompromising, high-proof experience, it is a masterpiece. It honors the legacy of the past while confidently stepping into the future.

The Collector’s Perspective – The First of Its Kind

As the inaugural “Stagg” release, Batch 22A holds a unique and compelling position in the collector’s landscape.

Why Batch 22A is a Landmark Bottle:

1. Historical Significance: It is the first bottle without the “Jr.” designation, making it a permanent and pivotal part of the Stagg lineage.

2. Proven Quality: It received critical acclaim upon release, reassuring collectors that the rebranding was backed by a stellar liquid.

3. High-Proof Statement: Its 132.2 proof is a bold number that appeals to proof-hounds and signifies the brand’s commitment to maintaining its intensity.

4. Appreciation Potential: As the first of the new series, its value as a collectible is inherently strong and likely to appreciate as the Stagg name continues to evolve.

The search for Stagg bourbon near me is notoriously difficult, and finding this specific, landmark batch is a pursuit that typically leads to specialized retailers like Rare Finds Liquor Store.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What happened to Stagg Jr.? Is it discontinued?
A: Stagg Jr. has been rebranded as Stagg. As of the 2022 releases, the “Jr.” has been dropped from the name. This was a decision by Buffalo Trace to reflect the whiskey’s established quality and maturity. The liquid itself continues in the same barrel-proof, batch-release tradition.

Q2: What is the proof of Stagg Batch 22A?
A: Stagg Batch 22A is bottled at 132.2 proof (66.1% ABV). This makes it one of the highest-proof entries in the entire Stagg/Jr. lineage.

Q3: Is there a difference in taste between Stagg and Stagg Jr.?
A: The flavor profile is consistent with the Stagg Jr. series, as it uses the same mash bill and aging philosophy. Batch-to-batch variation will always exist, but Stagg Batch 22A is very much in line with the bold, cherry-chocolate-oak profile that fans of the series expect, perhaps even intensifying it.

Q4: What was the original MSRP for Stagg Batch 22A?
A: The original Stagg-bourbon price (MSRP) for Batch 22A was typically between $60 and $75. This maintained the brand’s incredible value proposition. The current market price reflects its status as a highly sought-after inaugural release.

Q5: Where can I find Stagg-bourbon for sale?
A: Finding any Stagg-bourbon for sale at a retail store is extremely challenging due to high demand and limited allocation. Your best chances are through specialized online retailers like Rare Finds Liquor Store, whiskey auctions, or the secondary market. A general search for “Stagg bourbon near me” is unlikely to yield results.

Q6: How should I approach drinking a high-proof bourbon like Stagg Batch 22A?
A: Respect the proof. Start by pouring a small amount into a Glencairn or tulip-shaped glass. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes to allow it to open up. Take small sips, allowing the whiskey to coat your palate. Do not be afraid to add a few drops of pure water; this can “open up” the whiskey, reducing the alcohol bite and releasing even more complex aromas and flavors.

Rare Finds Liquor Store – Your Source for Historic Releases

At Rare Finds Liquor Store, we understand that a truly great collection captures not just great whiskey, but great moments in whiskey history. The release of Stagg Batch 22A is one such moment—a symbolic passing of the torch captured in a bottle.

We are more than a retailer; we are historians of the spirit. Our mission is to provide a trusted, authenticated channel for acquiring these landmark releases. We know that while finding a Buffalo Trace bourbon near me in stock might be a goal for some, securing a foundational bottle like the first Stagg release is the pursuit of a true enthusiast. That pursuit is one we are dedicated to facilitating.

Conclusion: A Name Well Earned

Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch ’22A’ is more than just a bourbon; it is a declaration. It declares that a legacy born in the shadow of a giant has matured into a titan itself. From its powerful, complex nose to its dense, layered palate and epic finish, it is a whiskey that demands attention and rewards patience.

It successfully bridges the past and the future, offering a taste that is both comfortingly familiar and excitingly bold. For the serious bourbon lover, Stagg Batch 22A is not just a bottle to own—it is a piece of modern bourbon history to be savored, representing the moment a prodigy officially came of age.

Call to Action:

Ready to own the inaugural release of a new American whiskey legend? Your search for landmark bottles like Stagg Batch 22A leads to Rare Finds Liquor Store.

Browse our curated selection of rare, allocated, and historic bourbons today. While Stagg Batch 22A is a standout offering, our inventory is constantly updated with other exceptional finds from the entire Stagg lineage and other top-tier bourbon whiskey brands.

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