Benchmark Full Proof vs Stagg Jr.

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 12:58 pm

Discover the differences between Benchmark Full Proof vs Stagg Jr. in this in-depth comparison and decide which Bourbon is better for You!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Benchmark Full Proof vs Stagg Jr.: Comparison

Benchmark Full Proof: A bold bourbon with caramel, orange, and spices, offering a potent but flavorful experience. Best enjoyed with water to unlock its full complexity.

Stagg Jr.: A high-proof bourbon with a rich profile of vanilla, cherry, and spices. Intense and full-bodied, it’s best tamed with water or an ice ball for a smoother experience.

Verdict: Benchmark Full Proof and Stagg Jr. each cater to those seeking a robust bourbon experience. Benchmark offers a budget-friendly boldness, ideal for adventurous cocktails or a bold sip. Stagg Jr., with its high proof and rich complexity, appeals to those desiring an intense flavor journey full of nuances. Both are excellent choices for exploring the depths of high-proof bourbon at different price points, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Top-Rated Single Barrel Bourbon Collection

Benchmark Full Proof: Unleash the Bold Bourbon at a Bargain

• Nose: Caramel, orange, oak, baking spice
• Palate: Baking spice, brown sugar, caramel, orange
• Finish: Baking spice, oak spice
• Alcohol content: 126 proof (63% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Benchmark Bonded

First Sip Sizzle: Brace yourself for an initial wave of ethanol heat. But fear not, it’s just a prelude to the good stuff waiting behind. Soon, caramel whispers and citrusy orange notes emerge, joined by a touch of oak and warming baking spice.

Flavorful Fury: This bourbon packs a punch. Its high proof delivers a robust entry, bursting with rich baking spices, brown sugar, and caramel sweetness. Hints of orange zest add a refreshing twist, creating a complex flavor dance.

Linger and Savor: The finish leaves you with a warming glow and a lingering echo of those delicious spices. A touch of barrel-aged bitterness adds depth, keeping things interesting.

Unlocking Hidden Depths: Water? Yes, please! Adding a few drops tames the fire, allowing the oak notes to shine and the orange flavor to sing. Experiment and find your perfect balance.

The Verdict: Benchmark Full Proof might not be a connoisseur’s dream, but it’s a bold and flavorful bourbon at an unbeatable price. It’s perfect for those who crave a powerful nightcap or a base for daring cocktails. Sure, it lacks the intricacies of high-end options, but at this price point, it’s hard to find a better bang for your buck.

So, raise a glass! If you’re looking for a bold and affordable bourbon adventure, Benchmark Full Proof awaits.

Benchmark Full Proof facts:

• Aged for around 4 years.

Stagg Jr.: Unleashing the Bold Bourbon Beast Within

• Nose: Vanilla, cherry pie
• Palate: Cherry, cinnamon, baking spice, caramel, pecan
• Finish: Oak, cinnamon, brown sugar
• Alcohol content: 130 proof (65% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Weller Full Proof

Aromatic Allure: Stagg Jr. isn’t shy. It announces itself with a powerful perfume of vanilla and warm cherry pie, filling the room with an irresistible invitation. Prepare for a bold and exciting encounter.

Palatial Playground: Dive in, and you’ll discover a thick and chewy texture, unlike any other bourbon. It coats your tongue with a warm hug, setting the stage for a flavor explosion. Ripe cherries burst forth, followed by a spicy kick of cinnamon and baking spices. A subtle hint of pecan adds a touch of nutty complexity.

Finishing Finesse: The finale is like a warm fireplace on a winter night. Rich oak notes dominate, but delicate spices and a lingering sweetness of brown sugar keep the party going.

The Verdict: Stagg Jr. is not for the faint of heart. This high-proof bourbon throws its bold flavors and heat right at you. But for those who dare to embrace the intensity, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Taming the Beast: While it stands proudly on its own, a large ice ball can work wonders. It will temper the heat, allowing the sweeter notes and wood nuances to shine through, offering a milder, yet still exciting adventure.

Remember: Stagg Jr. is a flavor bomb, not a subtle sipper. If you crave boldness and excitement, this bourbon is your spirit animal. But if you prefer a gentler introduction to the bourbon world, there are other options that might suit your taste better.

Ultimately, the key is to explore and find what resonates with you!

Stagg Jr. facts:

• Typically aged from 8 to 9 years.

• Uncut and unfiltered.
• Single Barrel.

• The distiller releases two batches annually.

What do they have in common?

Stagg Jr. and Benchmark are both produced at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, utilizing a shared mash bill that is also used for Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace.

While the exact proportions of the mash bill are undisclosed, it is commonly speculated to contain around 10% to 15% rye.

How do they differ?

The distinctions between Benchmark and Stagg Jr. lie in their aging process and chill-filtering methods.

Benchmark is aged for approximately 4 years and undergoes chill-filtering, while Stagg Jr. is aged for roughly 8 years and remains unfiltered.

In addition, Stagg Jr. is drawn from a single barrel.

Chill filtering is employed to prevent cloudiness in the liquid, but it can diminish the bourbon’s flavor profile.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Bourbon	Price
Benchmark Full Proof	$27
Stagg Jr.	$165