D A V I D N I C H O L S O N R E S E R V E
Price History
Overview
David Nicholson Reserve is a high-rye bourbon rooted in an 1843 recipe, revived under Luxco ownership to preserve its Van Winkle family legacy while delivering bold, balanced flavors at 100 proof as an unpretentious alternative to overhyped ryes.
Specs at a glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Style | High-rye Bourbon |
| ABV | 50% |
| Mashbill | High rye |
| Release Info | Original 1843 recipe developed by David Nicholson; later distilled by Julian Van Winkle at A. Ph. Stitzel Distillery using the '43 formula; Luxco ownership since 2000 |
| Age | No age statement |
Good to know
This historic brand, held by the Van Winkle family for generations, contrasts the flagship wheated expression with its rye-forward profile. Primarily available in Missouri and Illinois until recent national expansion, it earns consistent praise for masterful blending and value, scoring 88/100 in expert reviews.
Tasting notes
- Nose: Candied rye spiciness leads with old leather, lavender, apple skins, earth, minerality, and gentle heat.
- Palate: Sharp sweetness meets husky bitterness and sun-scorched hay, showcasing the high-rye boldness with refined balance.
- Finish: Lingering rye spice and subtle earthiness, versatile for sipping or mixing.
Notable details
- Production: 100 proof, high-rye mash bill, sourced (likely Heaven Hill Distillery); non-chill filtered heritage style.
- Lineage: Over 170 years of history from Van Winkle family stewardship to Luxco revival.
- Comparison: Hype-free counterpart to classic rye bourbons.
- Availability: Expanding beyond Midwest markets.
"David Nicholson Reserve offers an impressive, affordable drinking experience as a hype-free alternative to classic rye bourbons, backed by over 170 years of heritage." – The Whiskey Wash
Closing
A heritage-driven high-rye bourbon that punches above its weight in balance and versatility.
Sources
[1] Thewhiskeywash – "Whiskey Review: David Nicholson Reserve"
[2] Adventuresinwhiskey – "David Nicholson Reserve Bourbon Review"
[3] Drinkhacker – "Review: David Nicholson Reserve Bourbon"
[4] Bourbonguy – "David Nicholson Reserve Bourbon — BOURBON GUY"
[5] Brianhaara – "Sipp’n Corn Bourbon Review – David Nicholson Reserve"
[6] Thebourbonculture – "David Nicholson Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Review"
[7] Breakingbourbon – "David Nicholson Reserve Bourbon Review | Breaking Bourbon"
[8] Thebourbonfinder – "David Nicholson Reserve Bourbon - Review - The Bourbon Finder"