2013 Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23 Years Old Stitzel Weller 750ml

Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve

is a highly esteemed brand of bourbon whiskey produced by the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery, which is owned by the Sazerac Company. This bourbon is distilled and bottled at the Buffalo Trace Distillery located in Frankfort, Kentucky. Renowned for its exceptional quality and limited availability, Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve has garnered a reputation as one of the finest bourbons in the world.

Historical Background

The legacy of Pappy Van Winkle began with Julian “Pappy” Van Winkle Sr., who started his career in the whiskey industry at the young age of 18. He initially worked as a salesman for W.L. Weller & Sons and later became co-owner of the company. In 1910, they acquired the A. Ph. Stitzel Distillery, which played a pivotal role in producing whiskey for their brand.

The Old Rip Van Winkle brand was introduced just before Prohibition in the United States and was not reintroduced until after 1972 when rights to various brands were sold off, leaving only Old Rip Van Winkle under family control. Julian Van Winkle Jr., Pappy’s son, revived the brand using old whiskey stocks from Stitzel-Weller distillery until his passing in 1981, after which Julian Van Winkle III took over.

Production Process

Pappy Van Winkle bourbons are distinguished by their unique mash bill that includes wheat as a secondary grain instead of rye, along with barley malt. The bourbons are aged for extended periods—15, 20, or even 23 years—in charred new American oak barrels. This long aging process contributes to their rich flavors and complex profiles.

• 15-Year Bourbon: Bottled at 107 proof (53.5% ABV), it offers a robust flavor profile