2007 Pappy Van Winkle 20 year (Stitzel Weller) 700ml

Experience the legendary elegance of Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 20 Year, a masterpiece of aged bourbon. This highly coveted expression delivers an unparalleled symphony of rich caramel, dried fruit, and sophisticated oak, culminating in an unforgettable, lingering finish. A true connoisseur's dream, each sip is a testament to time and masterful craftsmanship.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated ballet of rich caramel, well-worn leather, and aged oak immediately greets the senses. Underlying notes of dried fruit—think fig and apricot—mingle with delicate hints of vanilla bean, roasted nuts, and a whisper of tobacco. There's a subtle floral ester that adds complexity, hinting at its venerable age.

Palate: The entry is remarkably smooth and opulent, coating the palate with layers of dark cherry, baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a significant presence of sweet toffee. The oak influence is gracefully integrated, showcasing its maturity without being overpowering, presenting notes of seasoned wood and a touch of rancio. A creamy texture evolves into hints of dark chocolate, marzipan, and a faint, sweet corn undercurrent.

Finish: Long, lingering, and exceptionally elegant. The finish resonates with enduring notes of caramel and oak, joined by a delightful warmth that slowly fades, leaving a gentle echo of dried fruit, a hint of black pepper spice, and a pervasive sweetness reminiscent of crème brûlée. It's a complex and satisfying denouement that encourages quiet contemplation.

About the Distillery

The Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery, while historically significant, nowadays primarily contract distills and ages their legendary whiskeys. Their legacy is deeply rooted in the Van Winkle family's commitment to making exceptional, high-rye bourbons that are aged for extended periods, pioneering the concept of ultra-aged whiskey in the American market. The brand is now produced under Buffalo Trace Distillery.