Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 20 Year Old Bourbon 2008, Signed
Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 20 Year Old is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon, aged for two decades and bottled at 90.4 proof (45.2% ABV). This 2008 release, crafted with a wheated mash bill, is noted for its richness and complexity, earning a 99/100 score from the World Spirits Championship.
- You must be 21 or older to purchase alcohol.
- Taxes and any available delivery options are calculated during checkout.
Overview
Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 20 Year Old is a distinguished Kentucky Straight Bourbon, celebrated for its extensive aging and refined character. This particular 2008 release is recognized for its heritage and the signature of Julian Van Winkle III.
Overview
Widely regarded as an exceptional bourbon, Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year has achieved a near-perfect 99/100 score from the World Spirits Championship. This ultra-premium bourbon is aged for two full decades, a notable duration in the industry, which contributes to its depth and complexity. It is crafted from a wheated mash bill consisting of corn, wheat, and malted barley, opting for a softer profile over the spiciness of rye.
Tasting Notes
On the nose, this bourbon presents deep aromas of oiled leather, cigar box, and dark fruits, complemented by hints of vanilla and spice. The palate is both bold and refined, featuring notes of citrus zest, sherry, dried apricot, coffee, and tobacco. The experience culminates in a long, elegant finish, layered with oak and minerality. Its dark amber hue and full-bodied structure suggest a spirit best enjoyed neat.
Technical Details
This expression is bottled at 90.4 proof, equivalent to 45.2% alcohol by volume. It represents a 20-year aging statement, a significant factor in its profile. The bourbon is produced using a wheated mash bill, a characteristic that contributes to its smooth texture and mellow sweetness. The legacy of Van Winkle traces back to Julian “Pappy” Van Winkle Sr., who co-founded the Stitzel-Weller Distillery. Following the sale of the distillery, the Van Winkle family continued to produce bourbon, with Julian III maintaining the tradition under the Old Rip Van Winkle label. Since 2002, the family has partnered with Buffalo Trace Distillery, which distills and ages these releases according to the original recipe and aging standards.
Key Features
- Aged for 20 years, a rare duration for bourbon.
- Bottled at 90.4 proof (45.2% ABV).
- Features a wheated mash bill for a smooth, sweet profile.
- Noted for complex aromas and flavors including leather, dark fruits, citrus, and tobacco.
- Produced with a heritage tracing back to the Stitzel-Weller Distillery.
