Buffalo Trace’s Stagg Jr label continues to spark buzz in the whiskey community, with its 2024 Batch 24B release offering another high-proof expression under the new three-times-a-year bottling schedule. Coming in at 127.8 proof, this batch follows the recent 24A and precedes the rapidly released 24C, marking the middle installment for the year. With changes in release cadence and an increasingly competitive barrel-proof market, the question stands—is Batch 24B a return to form, or another passable pour in a crowded field?
Let’s dive into the details and tasting notes to find out if this bottle stands out or simply holds the line.
Specs and Background
- Brand: Stagg Jr (Buffalo Trace Distillery)
- Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
- Mash Bill: Buffalo Trace Mash Bill #1 (high corn, low rye)
- Proof: 127.8
- Age: Not stated, but generally estimated around 8 years
- MSRP: $70
- Batch: 24B (second release of 2024)
Stagg Jr, now simply labeled as “Stagg”, is often seen as the fiery younger sibling to the legendary George T. Stagg. While the legacy of the label is strong, batch variation has always been a discussion point. This 24B batch steps in with high expectations, particularly as 24A gained some praise for its balance and structure.
Nose: Bold but Bumpy
On first lift, the nose on 24B is dry and astringent, with a noticeable dose of barrel funk, cherry cough drops, and crumpled newspaper. It’s a rough entry, lacking the immediate sugar-forward welcome many bourbon lovers crave. But give it a swirl, and things open up: strawberry rhubarb pie, black pepper, brown sugar, and light baking spices peek through the ethanol fog.
There are moments where the nose reminds you of stronger past batches like Batch 14 or 15, but never quite reaches their depth. After sipping, the glass leans into corn chip territory, resembling a bag of Cool Ranch Doritos and finishing with candied vanilla and barbecue sauce glaze. It’s quirky, even slightly chaotic, but not devoid of character.
The empty glass leaves behind a trail of deviled eggs, nutmeg, and a muddy oak bark aroma, signaling a rougher, more rustic side of the Stagg experience.
Palate: Sweet, Spiced, and Somewhat Safe
Despite the dry nose, the palate is surprisingly sweet on the first sip. Expect a rush of cherry cordial, cinnamon hots, and graham cracker, rounded out by that familiar Kentucky hug that comes standard with anything over 120 proof.
The second sip leans further into sweetness with strong strawberry syrup notes, akin to an over-mixed glass of strawberry milk. There’s a touch of raspberry on a long swish, layered under soft baking spice and a subtle milk chocolate or ganache undertone.
There is structure here, and more complexity than some of the more one-dimensional batches of old. That said, nothing truly leaps from the glass, and the pour feels like a highlight reel of Stagg Jr’s greatest hits—just with less intensity and refinement.
The finish lands on the medium to short side, with some raspberry, apple tart, and a light dry oak tapering off. It’s pleasant, but lacks the stamina or layered evolution expected from barrel-proof bourbon royalty.
How It Compares
Batch 24B won’t dethrone fan favorites like Batch 12, 14, or 18, but it does offer a better experience than the occasional flops in the lineup. It’s definitely more enjoyable than some of the earlier, hotter, less-balanced releases. Compared to 24A, which featured more balance and bolder flavor development, 24B plays it safer.
Still, priced at $70 MSRP, it’s hard to argue this bottle isn’t worth a buy if you’re lucky enough to find it at retail. But secondary market pricing or inflated store markups? Not worth the leap. There’s better whiskey in Buffalo Trace’s own catalog for less—Rare Breed or E.H. Taylor Small Batch come to mind.
Strengths and Weaknesses
What works:
- Classic Stagg profile with cherry, spice, and brown sugar
- Improved mid-palate balance over some previous batches
- Fair retail price if found without markup
What falls short:
- Dry and uninspired nose early on
- Lack of standout complexity
- Finish feels a bit rushed and abrupt
- Doesn’t distinguish itself in a crowded high-proof lineup
Should You Buy It?
If you’re a longtime Stagg Jr collector, there’s little doubt you’ll be curious enough to try 24B. For most casual enthusiasts, this batch won’t blow your mind, but it certainly won’t offend your palate either. It’s a bottle you can enjoy, share with friends, and revisit without much ritual—just don’t expect it to wow you.
If your shelves are already stocked with previous batches or other barrel-proof favorites, you may not find a compelling reason to chase this one. The story, the label, and the proof all bring familiarity. What’s missing is the punch of personality.
Final Verdict
Rating: 3 out of 5
Traditional Stagg character with an average execution
Stagg Jr Batch 24B walks a familiar path, with all the heat, fruit, and brown sugar notes you’ve come to expect. But at the end of the pour, it feels more like a placeholder than a pinnacle. It’s a batch for the everyday sipper, not the serious collector.
