A bourbon enthusiast online referred to Shortbarrel Single Barrel Series as a Stagg killer. This was an intriguing description, so I drove 20 miles to purchase this store pick from Grapes & Grains in John's Creek, which is in Metropolitan Atlanta. This was a fantastic decision, as seen in the review below.
However, is it a Stagg Killer? Well, to put it in boxing lingo, Stagg Jr. Batch 15’s corner threw in the towel midway through round 6 to avoid a stoppage by the referee. Anyway, here is my review of the Shortbarrel Single Barrel Series Kentucky Straight Bourbon.
Nose
Immediately on the nose, I got dark chocolate-covered cherries. Also mixed in, there is a woody seasoned oak. The nose is a little sweet and a little fruity, featuring dark fruits. Gosh, the nose is so chewy and rich. It took all of my power not to taste it right away. Warm, fuzzy, and cozy. Hidden behind all of this rich goodness are the ethanol and its 126.6 proof.
Palate
The first sip is a little hot, but the flavor is there. A little semi-sweet molasses and a repeat of some of the features of the nose, particularly the dark chocolate, but with less cherry. Salted dark caramel.
Once it hits the mid-palate, black pepper kicks in strong and gives way to the semi-sweet salted molasses and caramel mix. The heat is always there; you feel it throughout the tasting experience. Interestingly, the age of Shortbarrel Single Barrel Series Bourbon is only 5 years and 6 months. However, it tastes a lot older.
Finish
Hot a flavor-packed with many of the notes from the palate.