Dating Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye bottles post-2007 can be easily done by looking for “laser codes” or “dot matrix codes” printed onto the bottles. These codes are used to indicate important information such as the bottling line, date, and time the bottle was filled. However, I must admit that locating and deciphering these codes can sometimes be a bit challenging. Let me guide you through the process.
1. Examine the bottle closely: Start by carefully inspecting the entire surface of the bottle, paying close attention to the bottom, back label, and neck area. The laser code is typically printed on the back label or the bottom of the bottle, while the dot matrix code is usually found on the neck.
2. Locate the laser code: If you find a laser code, it will consist of a series of numbers and/or letters. These codes are often printed in a small font and can be a bit difficult to read, especially if they are faint or partially rubbed off. Take your time and use a magnifying glass if needed to enhance your visibility.
3. Decipher the laser code: Once you have located the laser code, it's time to decode it. These codes usually contain information about the bottling line, date, and time. Look for a pattern in the code, such as specific numbers or letters that indicate the year, month, and day of bottling. Keep in mind that Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye bottles typically have a four-digit year code.
4. Find the dot matrix code: If you couldn't find a laser code, don't worry! Van Winkle bottles also feature a dot matrix code, which is a series of small dots or lines. These codes are usually located on the neck of the bottle, near the cap or cork. Again, take your time and examine the bottle closely to locate this code.
5. Interpret the dot matrix code: Interpreting the dot matrix code can be a bit trickier than the laser code. These codes often require a decoder chart or reference guide provided by the distillery. Unfortunately, Van Winkle does not officially release a decoder chart for their dot matrix codes. However, some online whiskey communities and forums may have enthusiasts who have developed their own decoding methods. It might be worth checking these resources.
Remember, the purpose of dating a Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye bottle is to determine its age. This information can be valuable to collectors and enthusiasts, as older bottles are often considered more desirable. However, the quality and taste of the whiskey are not necessarily dependent on its age alone. Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye is known for its exceptional flavor profile, regardless of the bottling date.
Dating Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye bottles post-2007 can be done by locating and deciphering the laser codes or dot matrix codes. While finding the codes may require some careful examination, decoding them can be a bit challenging, especially in the case of dot matrix codes. It's always exciting to uncover the age of a bottle, but remember that the quality of the whiskey should be the ultimate focus of your enjoyment.