FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Dec. 12, 2024) – Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery and Buffalo Trace Distillery are proud to announce the return of the Van Winkle Whiskey Collection. Renowned for its wheated recipe, the Van Winkle Collection features six distinctive whiskeys. The wheated recipe, favored by Julian P. “Pappy” Van Winkle, results in a softer, smoother taste profile that has helped the bourbon become among the world’s most coveted. Complimenting the bourbons, the Collection’s 13-year-old rye whiskey offers a more subtle spice due to its lower rye content. Excitingly, this year’s release includes a surplus of 20-Year-Old and 23-Year-Old Family Reserve Bourbons.
“There’s an incomparable feeling of joy that comes from finding a bottle of Pappy on the shelf,” said Julian Van Winkle III, President, Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery. “This season, we’re excited that connoisseurs have a greater chance to enjoy our older expressions, thanks to an exceptional yield from these barrels.”
The Van Winkle Collection vintages are on shelves now in stores, bars and restaurants across the United States at varying retail prices. Due to the extended aging process, which results in significant evaporation and lower barrel yields, supply is limited. The suggested retail prices for the limited-edition Van Winkle collection bottles are as follows:
- Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10-Year-Old – $129.99
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 – $149.99
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 – $199.99
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– $199.99
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– $319.99
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 – $449.99
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.
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.
“Ultimately, the only legal and reputable source consumers should be buying from is a licensed retailer,” noted ORVW President Julian P. Van Winkle III. “This is the safest, foolproof way to ensure your bottle is not counterfeit.”
Whiskey fans increase their risks of purchasing phony bottles by purchasing from secondary markets and online sellers including Craigslist, eBay, and social media groups. Many alcohol scams take place overseas, and while rare in the United States, in some cases, consuming alcohol from outside the system can lead to bodily harm and even casualties.
Whiskey buyers who believe they have been scammed should not drink out of their bottle. They should also file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau, contact their State Attorney General’s office, and contact their credit card company about its fraud protection policies.
