Pappy Van Winkle is a highly sought-after bourbon that is produced by the Van Winkle family. The bourbon is named after Julian “Pappy” Van Winkle, a legendary figure in the whiskey industry. Pappy Van Winkle bourbons are known for their exceptional quality and limited availability, making them highly prized by whiskey enthusiasts and collectors.
The production of Pappy Van Winkle bourbon has an interesting history. Originally, the bourbon was produced at the Stitzel-Weller distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. This distillery was founded by Pappy Van Winkle himself in 1935 and became renowned for its high-quality bourbons. However, in 1972, the Stitzel-Weller distillery ceased operations, and production of Pappy Van Winkle bourbon came to a halt.
Fortunately, the Van Winkle family was able to secure a new production agreement with the Buffalo Trace distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. Buffalo Trace is a well-respected distillery with a long history of producing exceptional bourbons. The partnership between the Van Winkle family and Buffalo Trace has allowed the production of Pappy Van Winkle bourbon to continue.
It is important to note that there are two labels of Pappy Van Winkle bourbon: the Old Rip Van Winkle label and the Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve label. Both labels are produced at Buffalo Trace and are equally renowned for their exceptional quality.
The Old Rip Van Winkle label is named after the famous short story “Rip Van Winkle” by Washington Irving. This label includes a range of bourbons, including a 10-year-old, 12-year-old, and 15-year-old expression. These bourbons are highly regarded for their rich flavors, smoothness, and complexity. The Old Rip Van Winkle label has received numerous awards and accolades, further solidifying its reputation as one of the best bourbons in the world.
On the other hand, the Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve label is the pinnacle of the Van Winkle bourbon portfolio. This label includes a 20-year-old and 23-year-old expression, both of which are highly coveted by whiskey enthusiasts. The Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve bourbons are known for their exceptional aging and complexity. These bourbons have consistently received top ratings and awards from whiskey experts and critics.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have had the privilege of tasting Pappy Van Winkle bourbons on a few occasions. Each time, I have been blown away by the depth of flavor, complexity, and smoothness of these bourbons. The attention to detail and craftsmanship that goes into their production is truly remarkable.
The demand for Pappy Van Winkle bourbons far exceeds the available supply, making them extremely difficult to find. Whiskey enthusiasts often go to great lengths to get their hands on a bottle, including entering lotteries, waiting in long lines, or paying significant premiums on the secondary market. This scarcity and high demand have only served to increase the allure and mystique surrounding Pappy Van Winkle bourbons.
Pappy Van Winkle bourbon is produced by the Van Winkle family in partnership with Buffalo Trace distillery. The Old Rip Van Winkle and Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve labels are both highly acclaimed and sought after by whiskey enthusiasts. The exceptional quality and limited availability of these bourbons have cemented their status as some of the best and most coveted bourbons in the world.