George T. Stagg 2020 Release is a back vintage expression of one of the most collected and allocated bourbons in American whiskey history, part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection and bottled at 130.4 proof (65.2% ABV). The 2020 vintage sits squarely in the higher-proof tier of modern Stagg releases, delivering the full barrel-strength intensity and depth that the name demands while occupying its own distinct character profile shaped by the specific barrels selected for that year's release. Every annual George T. Stagg release is drawn from a different set of barrels, making each vintage a genuinely non-repeatable and time-specific expression — the 2020 will never be produced again. Uncut and unfiltered, what is in the bottle is exactly what the barrels gave up: no dilution, no filtration, maximum natural character. Now five years out of active retail circulation, the 2020 Stagg is a firmly established back vintage that commands strong collector interest and will only become more scarce as remaining bottles sell through worldwide.
ABV / Proof
| Distillery |
Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, Kentucky |
| Producer |
Sazerac Company |
| Collection |
Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) |
| Type |
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey |
| Release Year |
2020 |
| Bottling Style |
Barrel Proof — Uncut, Unfiltered |
| Age Statement |
NAS (typically 15+ years) |
| ABV |
65.2% |
| Proof |
130.4 Proof |
| Bottle Size |
750ml |
| Country |
United States |
| Region |
Kentucky |
Tasting Notes
Color: Deep, rich mahogany with ruby and copper tones — the unmistakable natural color of long-aged Buffalo Trace bourbon at barrel strength
Nose: Bold and commanding at 130.4 proof, with dark caramel, chocolate fudge, dried dark fruit, charred oak, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Time in the glass opens additional layers of espresso and baking spice.
Palate: Full and intensely flavored, with dark toffee, roasted oak, black cherry, bittersweet chocolate, cinnamon, and a powerful barrel-strength heat that carries the flavor profile across a very long and satisfying palate. A few drops of water will soften the heat and reveal additional fruit and vanilla depth.
Finish: Exceptionally long, with charred oak, dark dried fruit, warm spice, and a bittersweet chocolate fade that lingers for minutes — the definitive George T. Stagg finish.
FAQ
How does the 2020 release compare to the 2019 and 2023?
The 2019 at 116.9 proof is the most approachable and integration-forward of the three. The 2020 at 130.4 proof sits in the high-intensity tier alongside the 2023 at 135 proof, delivering bold barrel-strength power with its own distinct barrel-driven character. All three are in store — serious Stagg collectors often pursue multiple vintages to compare.
Is the 2020 a back vintage?
Yes. The 2020 George T. Stagg was released in the fall of 2020 as part of that year's Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. Now five years out of active retail distribution, surviving bottles are genuine back vintage collector acquisitions that will not be restocked.
Where can I buy George T. Stagg 2020 online?
Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.
