Allocated bourbons are highly sought after and often difficult to find. These are the bottles that bourbon enthusiasts dream of getting their hands on. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the privilege of tasting and experiencing some of these allocated bourbons, and let me tell you, they are truly special.
One of the most iconic allocated bourbons is the Pappy Van Winkle range. Produced by the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery, these bourbons have achieved legendary status in the whiskey world. The Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve, available in 15, 20, and 23-year-old expressions, is highly coveted for its rich flavors, complex profiles, and exceptional aging. These bottles are notoriously difficult to find, with limited quantities released each year, leading to long waiting lists and inflated prices on the secondary market.
Another allocated bourbon that whiskey enthusiasts eagerly anticipate is the E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof series. Produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery, these limited edition releases showcase the craftsmanship and artistry of master distiller Freddie Johnson. Each batch is bottled at barrel proof, meaning the whiskey is not diluted with water and retains its full flavor and strength. The E.H. Taylor Barrel Proofs are known for their bold and robust character, with flavors ranging from caramel and vanilla to dark fruits and spices. Like the Pappy Van Winkles, these bottles can be challenging to come by, often requiring connections or luck to secure a bottle.
Four Roses Limited Editions are another example of allocated bourbons that are highly sought after. Four Roses is known for its exceptional blending and unique use of yeast strains, resulting in a wide range of flavor profiles. Their limited edition releases, such as the Small Batch Limited Edition and the Single Barrel Limited Edition, are highly anticipated each year. These bourbons often feature carefully selected barrels, showcasing the best of Four Roses' distilling prowess. With limited quantities available, these bottles disappear from shelves quickly, leaving bourbon lovers scrambling to get their hands on a bottle.
In addition to these specific brands, allocated bourbons can also include other limited edition releases from distilleries such as Heaven Hill, Wild Turkey, and Willett. These bottles may be single barrel releases, special collaborations, or experimental batches that showcase the creativity and innovation of the distillers.
It is worth noting that the allocation of these bourbons is often determined by factors such as production capacity, barrel aging, and demand. Distilleries may choose to allocate a certain percentage of their production to limited releases, ensuring that these bottles remain exclusive and highly sought after. This creates a sense of excitement and anticipation among bourbon enthusiasts, as they eagerly await the release of their favorite allocated bourbons each year.
As an avid bourbon enthusiast myself, I have had the privilege of tasting some allocated bourbons and experiencing the thrill of finding a rare bottle. The excitement of coming across a bottle of Pappy Van Winkle or E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof is unmatched, and the flavors and complexity of these bourbons make them truly worth the hunt.
That being said, the world of allocated bourbons can be both thrilling and frustrating. While it is exciting to chase after these rare bottles, the limited availability and high demand can sometimes make it feel like an impossible task. However, the thrill of finally getting your hands on an allocated bourbon and savoring its unique flavors and aromas is an experience that is truly worth it for any bourbon lover.