What a better way to round out 2024 then to hear about the release of the Pappy Van Winkle 2024 Collection. The collection comprises six highly sought-after Van Winkle whiskeys – five bourbons and one rye. There is something for everyone. Speaking of everyone, the brand recently announced that this year’s supply of Pappy Van Winkle 20-Year and 23-Year bourbon is higher than previous years, and higher than average. That means that getting your hands on one of these bottles is going to be just a bit easier to get hold of.
“There’s an incomparable feeling of joy that comes from finding a bottle of Pappy on the shelf. This season, we’re excited that connoisseurs have a greater chance to enjoy our older expressions, thanks to an exceptional yield from these barrels.” ~ Julian Van Winkle III, president of the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery
Despite this it still won’t be easy to find these bottles and this won’t stop the secondary market from charging outrageous prices. Prices start at $130 but most people will ultimately pay a lot more.
“The only legal and reputable source consumers should be buying from is a licensed retailer. This is the safest, foolproof way to ensure your bottle is not counterfeit. The Van Winkle family reminds fans that neither they nor Buffalo Trace Distillery control the prices individual retailers charge for the expressions. The best chance to find Van Winkle products at a fair price is through lotteries offered by many retailers, where consumers can purchase bottles from the Collection at MSRP.” ~ Julian Van Winkle III, president of the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery
These are the suggested retail prices according to Buffalo Trace:
- Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10-Year-Old – $129.99
- Old Rip Van Winkle Special Reserve Bourbon 12-Year-Old – $149.99
- Old Rip Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13-Year-Old – $199.99
- Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 15-Year-Old- $199.99
- Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 20-Year-Old- $319.99
- Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 23-Year-Old – $449.99
Here is a breakdown of each of the bottles:
Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10 Year Old - 53.5% ABV
At 107 proof, the nose of this 10-year-old bourbon reveals rich oak spice layered with subtle hints of licorice and dark cherry. On the palate, a well-rounded body showcases deep flavors of oak, tobacco, and sweet fruit. The finish of this Old Rip Van Winkle classic is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of dark cherry and soft tobacco.
Old Rip Van Winkle Special Reserve Bourbon 12 Year Old - 45.2% ABV
Ripe stone fruit and chocolate dominate the aroma of this 90.4 proof bourbon, setting the stage for a honeyed sweetness on the palate. Balanced by gentle oak and a whisper of tobacco, the flavors meld seamlessly. The finish is slightly dry with a pleasant tingle.
Old Rip Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13 Year Old - 47.8% ABV
Roasted nuts, oaky vanilla, and ripe fruit highlight the aroma of the 95.6 proof rye in the Van Winkle family. On the palate, chocolate and spice intertwine with caramel richness and a touch of oak dryness. The complex finish showcases gentle baking spices and roasted caramel for a perfectly balanced experience.
Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 15 Year Old - 53.5% ABV
Untouched for 15 years and unhurried by time, caramel corn and vanilla dominate the nose of this 107 proof whiskey, offering a warm prelude to the palate’s sweet, smooth entry. Rich notes of leather, oak, and dark fruit add depth and complexity, concluding with lingering hints of spice and oaky tannins.
Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 20 Year Old - 45.2% ABV
Warm holiday spices blend with caramel sweetness and delicate notes of chocolate on the nose of this 20-year-old, 90.4 proof vintage. The palate delivers a harmonious mix of caramel, cinnamon sugar, and subtle spice, offering a rich, layered experience. A slightly dry and oaky finish reflects two decades of careful aging, leaving a lasting impression.
Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 23 Year Old - 47.8% ABV
The nose of Pappy’s 23-Year-Old Bourbon presents a perfect harmony of toasty caramel, soft cream, and nuanced notes of oak, nuts, and leather. On the palate of the 95.6 proof expression, vanilla, maple, and honey meet citrus and gentle spice. The finish is slightly dry, with a lingering balance of leather and oak.
