Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 23 Year 2018 is the oldest bourbon in the family's regular line, aged twenty-three years and bottled at 95.6 proof. Its barrels were filled in 1995 or earlier.
About This Bourbon
The 23 Year's barrels are chosen from the heart of the warehouse. A 2018 bottle was distilled in 1995 at the latest. Stitzel-Weller whiskey is generally thought to have run out of the 23 Year after 2014, with Bernheim and Buffalo Trace wheated bourbon used as it faded, so the 2018 comes from later stock. It is bottled at 95.6 proof (47.8% ABV). The family notes caramel, ripe apples, cherries, oak and tobacco, with a hint of chocolate.
Tasting Profile
- Nose: Caramel, ripe apple and cherry, with cedar and pipe tobacco.
- Palate: Pronounced wood, balanced by dark cherry, toffee and cocoa.
- Finish: Lingering sweet caramel and oak.
Serving & Food
Neat, as the family recommends, at about 18°C in a nosing glass. Give it a good while in the glass. With food, keep it simple: a piece of 70% chocolate or a few roasted pecans.
How to Enjoy
A final pour at the end of a long dinner, or a gift for a 1995 milestone.
Product Details
Producer: Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery
Style: Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey
Mash Bill: Wheated (corn, wheat, malted barley)
Age: 23 years
Proof: 95.6
ABV: 47.8%
Release year: 2018
Region: Kentucky, USA
Volume: 750mL
About the Distillery
Since the move to Frankfort, the family and Buffalo Trace have kept the Van Winkle range small: the 10 Year, the 12 Year Special Reserve, the 13 Year rye and the three Pappy ages. The 23 Year was named Spirit of the Year for 2010 by Wine & Spirits magazine.