Pappy Van Winkle 20 Years Family Reserve Bourbon
Price History
Overview
Pappy Van Winkle 20 Years Family Reserve Bourbon is a legendary expression from the Van Winkle family, celebrated for its exceptional balance and complexity. This wheated bourbon, aged for two decades, offers a unique experience that defies the typical pitfalls of over-aging.
Specs at a glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Style | bourbon |
| ABV | 90.4% |
| Mashbill | Wheated (exact ratios undisclosed) |
| Release Info | Limited to approximately 3,000 bottles annually, part of the sought-after Old Rip Van Winkle lineup from Buffalo Trace. Originally released in 1994, transitioning to Buffalo Trace production in 2002. |
| Age | 20 years |
Good to know
This bourbon is named after the pioneering Pappy Van Winkle, who helped popularize wheated bourbons. Its rarity has earned it the moniker of a “mythical unicorn” in the whiskey world, often leading to secondary market prices exceeding $2,000.
Tasting notes
- Nose: A captivating bouquet of butterscotch, dark cherries in chocolate, and a hint of vanilla bean, complemented by sherry and plum jam.
- Palate: A delightful interplay of lemony tartness, sherry-soaked cherries, and nutty flavors, with cinnamon and nutmeg lending complexity.
- Finish: An elegant, long-lasting experience with notes of dark chocolate and refreshing nuttiness.
Notable details
- Production: Aged in charred barrels, showcasing meticulous selection to avoid over-oaking.
- Lineage: Part of the revered Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve, with a rich family history and a legacy of quality.
- Comparison: Often compared to other highly-rated bourbons like Michter’s 20 Year and even the 15 Year variant of its own lineup.
- Availability: Extremely limited; access is generally via raffles or lotteries, making it a coveted bottle for collectors.
Serving suggestions
- Best enjoyed neat, allowing the full spectrum of flavors to shine.
- Alternatively, a drop of water can enhance the nose without diluting the experience.
“Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year Old achieves near-perfection by balancing rich, complex flavors across all taste categories without the typical drawbacks of over-aging.” – The Whiskey Wash
Closing
Pappy Van Winkle 20 Years Family Reserve is not just a bourbon; it’s an experience, embodying the pinnacle of craftsmanship and legacy in the world of whiskey.
Sources
[1] The Whiskey Wash – “Bourbon Review: Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year Old”
[2] The Bourbon Culture – “Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year Old Bourbon Review”
[3] Whiskey Reviewer – “Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve 20 Years Old Bourbon Whiskey Review”