George T. Stagg 2019 Release is a back vintage iteration of one of the most celebrated and allocated bourbons in the world, part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection and bottled at 116.9 proof (58.45% ABV) — notably more approachable in proof than many other Stagg vintages while losing none of the legendary depth and complexity that defines this expression. The 2019 release is widely regarded among collectors as one of the most balanced and nuanced Stagg vintages in recent history, with its lower-than-average proof allowing more of the underlying bourbon character, fruit, and oak integration to come forward without the full barrel-strength heat of higher-proof releases like the 2023. Uncut and unfiltered, this is exactly what the barrel gave up: no added water, no filtration, full natural character. Now several years out of active retail circulation as a back vintage, the 2019 Stagg commands strong secondary market interest and represents a genuine opportunity for serious bourbon collectors to acquire a specific and unrepeatable chapter of the Stagg story.
ABV / Proof
| Distillery |
Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, Kentucky |
| Producer |
Sazerac Company |
| Collection |
Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) |
| Type |
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey |
| Release Year |
2019 |
| Bottling Style |
Barrel Proof — Uncut, Unfiltered |
| Age Statement |
NAS (typically 15+ years) |
| ABV |
58.45% |
| Proof |
116.9 Proof |
| Bottle Size |
750ml |
| Country |
United States |
| Region |
Kentucky |
Tasting Notes
Color: Deep rich mahogany with brilliant ruby and copper tones — the unmistakable natural color of long-aged Buffalo Trace bourbon
Nose: Exceptionally inviting and more immediately accessible than higher-proof Stagg vintages, with dark caramel, vanilla, dried cherry, chocolate, brown sugar, and toasted oak that open generously without the aggressive proof heat of other years.
Palate: Rich, layered, and beautifully balanced at 116.9 proof, with dark toffee, espresso, baking spice, roasted oak, black cherry, and dark chocolate. The lower proof relative to many Stagg releases allows the barrel's full flavor complexity to come forward with exceptional integration and smoothness.
Finish: Very long and deeply satisfying, with charred oak, dark fruit, warm baking spice, and a lingering sweetness that confirms the 2019 as one of the most complete and accessible Stagg vintages in recent memory.
FAQ
How does the 2019 vintage compare to other Stagg releases?
The 2019 release at 116.9 proof is one of the lower-proof iterations in the modern Stagg era, which collectors generally regard as a significant advantage. The reduced proof brings more of the underlying bourbon's fruit, integration, and elegance forward relative to the dominant heat and intensity of higher-proof releases like the 2023 at 135 proof. Both are exceptional, but they deliver very different experiences.
Is the 2019 release a back vintage?
Yes. The 2019 George T. Stagg was released in the fall of 2019 as part of that year's Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. It is now several years out of active retail distribution, making surviving bottles back vintage collector acquisitions that will not be restocked.
Where can I buy George T. Stagg 2019 online?
Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.
