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

One of the most iconic bourbon whiskeys of the last 10 years, Stagg Jr (now Stagg) is world-renowned as a powerhouse barrel-proof that defies the limits of hellish heat. Here we answer the question that many cask-strength aficionados have wrestled with over the last decade... which Stagg Jr batch is best? 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 17 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 updated take on the barrel-proof power rankings - today, ranking Stagg Jr's complete collection of 17* batches and Stagg's batch 18-23C from best to worst.

Stagg Jr. 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 132.3 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.

Stagg Jr. 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.

Stagg Jr. Batch 17 (Winter, 2021) - 128.7 Proof

The last ever Stagg Jr before the 2022 Stagg rebrand, Batch 17, released in Winter 2021, is the final 'Jr' instalment and one of Buffalo Trace distillery's finest barrel-proof bourbons. A punchy yet approachable barrel-proof bourbon that weighs in at a healthy 128.7 proof, Stagg Jr's Batch 17 is both a scorcher and smooth, sweet-talker that's perfectly tuned for lovers of Stagg Jr's most memorable offerings. Expect a profile swimming with sweet vanilla, caramel, and molasses, as well as an intriguing 'cherry cola' aroma that intertwines with the classic oaky nuttiness for which Stagg's finish is renowned.

Stagg Jr. 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.

Stagg Jr. 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.

Stagg Batch 18 (Summer 2022) - 131 Proof

The first Stagg 'senior'. In late 2022, Stagg Jr. was no more and ever since has been known as Stagg. The brand stayed true to its fundamentals, however, with the same classic recipe for fiery cask-strength whiskey defining the first ever Stagg 'senior' release as it's been affectionately dubbed. 131-proof, full of the signature Stagg flavors, think caramel, cherry, cinnamon and citrus, it's a bold move for the brand but one that makes sense given its longstanding history and establishment in KY bourbon folklore.

Stagg Batch 22A (Spring 2023) - 132.2 Proof

A head-scratchingly good bourbon. Stagg Batch 22A Small Release Barrel Proof Bourbon is a bit of a confusing whiskeuy, arriving on the bourbon scene in early 2023 bearing the label "22A"... due to some labeling issues - it came significantly later than the bottle labeled 22B (which is also known as Batch 19 in the old language) and was almost immediately followed up with a 23A batch that has started to circulate as well. Bottled at a bold 66.1% ABV (132.2-proof), it's another excellent addition to the Stagg series, but one that creates more intrigue with the slightly confounding nature of its release.

Stagg Jr. Batch 5 (Fall, 2015) – 129.7 Proof

Batch 5 is 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.

Stagg Jr. 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.

Stagg Jr. 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.

Stagg Jr. 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.

Stagg Jr. 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.

Stagg Jr. 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.

Stagg Batch 19 (Winter 2022) - 130 Proof

Also known as 22B, Stagg Batch 19 is a 130-proof fireball that was rolled out in 2022 to considerable fanfare and aplomb. Seriously sought-after, 22B has become a cult-status Stagg thanks to its confusing rollout and mislabelling alongside batch 22A, with these instalments some of the earliest new Stagg 'senior' bottlings, both of which are misordered in their label and rollout date, but instilled with the familiar profile that we've come to know and love.

Stagg Batch 23A (Summer 2023) - 130.2 Proof

Further label confusion, same great bourbon. While you'd be forgiven for thinking that 23A would be the first release of 2023, it's in fact the second, following batch 22A. Stagg Batch 23A is a 130.2-proof cask-strength bourbon whiskey that showcases the balance and guile of Buffalo Trace's mainline barrel-proof offering, and is another collectible from this acclaimed lineup. Not as good as some of its predecessors, but good enough to become a sought-after rarity.

Stagg Jr. Batch 16 (Summer, 2021) - 130.9 Proof

The second last junior ever, Stagg Jr Batch 16 is heavily influenced by notes of chocolate-covered cherry and a dash of cinnamon. Thick and heavy on the palate, the 130.9 Proof Batch 16 is a whiskey that will coat your tongue with uncanny sweetness before a long, warm finish ties this complete and considered bourbon together. Another formidable expression from the esteemed Kentucky brand, and one that will surely become more and more collectible with the end of the 'Jr' series with the conclusion of Batch 17.

Stagg Batch 23B (Winter 2023) - 127.8 Proof

Lower proof, same high quality. One of the most accessible Stagg Barrel Proof Bourbons in recent times, Stagg Batch 23B clocks in at a much lower 127.8-proof, and while this is by no means a slouch when it comes to heat, it perhaps doesn't have the same cask-strength weight that many of its higher-ranked predecessors boast. Still, a good cask-strength with a balance, sippable profile, 23B is a more accessible Stagg for those who don't like it as hot and heavy.

Stagg Jr. 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 and represents one the most complete, well-rounded and revered from the Stagg Jr. catalog - a modern marvel.

Stagg Jr. 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.

Stagg Jr. 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.

Stagg Jr. 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.

Stagg Jr. 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.

Stagg Batch 23C (2024) - 125.9 Proof

The lowest-proof Stagg yet. It drinks well, sure, but for fans of Stagg Barrel Proof, the lowest proof Stagg ever is not what we're all about. We want heat, we like it hot, and Batch 23C doesn't run as warm as other batches. It's a cooler, sweeter and somewhat oakier barrel-proof bourbon, but if you want to singe your eyebrows and shock your senses with a warming cas-strength whiskey, other batches are preferred.

*This list was initially created after the release of Batch 15 and the inclusion of Batch 16 and 17 may be construed as a slightly biased update - regardless, they're still damn good whiskeys!