Whiskey enthusiasts, the wait is over. The highly anticipated 2024 Pappy Van Winkle collection is officially announced, bringing with it the promise of rare and exceptional bourbon. For those familiar with the world of fine spirits, Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve needs little introduction. It’s a name synonymous with quality, craftsmanship, and, for many, the pinnacle of American whiskey.
For the uninitiated, Pappy Van Winkle is more than just a brand; it’s a legacy. The Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery, the force behind this coveted whiskey, is a family affair spanning four generations. It began with Julian P. “Pappy” Van Winkle, Sr., in the late 19th century, who later co-founded the Stitzel-Weller Distillery after Prohibition. This distillery became the birthplace of other esteemed brands like W.L. Weller, Old Fitzgerald, and Rebel Yell. Pappy’s son, Julian Jr., took the reins after his father’s passing. He eventually sold Stitzel-Weller in the early 1970s but kept the Van Winkle legacy alive by establishing the Old Rip Van Winkle label. Julian III continued the tradition in 1981 and, alongside his son Preston, has been producing the Pappy Van Winkle lineup in partnership with Buffalo Trace since 2002. This partnership utilizes the distinctive wheated mashbill that defines the unique character of Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve.
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Over the last decade and a half, Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve has ascended to near-mythical status in the whiskey world. It’s become a cultural phenomenon, driving intense demand and fervent collecting. While some seasoned whiskey drinkers might argue the hype has become excessive, the underlying quality of the whiskey remains undeniable. Even if older expressions lean towards oak-forward profiles, the craftsmanship is evident. Pappy Van Winkle is, by any measure, exceptional bourbon. However, in a market now brimming with excellent whiskey options, the secondary market prices can be difficult to justify for all but the most dedicated collectors.
This year’s suggested retail prices (SRP) reflect a slight increase, yet they remain a fraction of what bottles command on the secondary market. Ranging from $130 for the 10-year-old to $450 for the 23-year-old, these prices are purely theoretical for most consumers seeking Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve. The Van Winkle family and Buffalo Trace emphasize their lack of control over secondary market pricing. Julian P. Van Winkle III himself advises that the most reliable way to acquire Pappy at SRP is through retailer lotteries. He stresses purchasing from licensed retailers as the only “legal and reputable source,” crucial in combating the increasing issue of counterfeit bottles that plague the brand.
The 2024 Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve collection features six expressions, encompassing the classic bourbons and a rye:
- Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10-Year-Old (107 proof): Expect a robust profile with notes of oak and tobacco beautifully balanced by sweet fruit undertones.
- Old Rip Van Winkle Special Reserve Bourbon 12-Year-Old (90.4 proof): A slightly gentler proof point reveals nuances of honey, alongside the familiar oak and tobacco notes.
- Old Rip Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13-Year-Old (95.6 proof): A departure from bourbon, this rye whiskey offers a complex palate of chocolate, spice, and sweet caramel.
- Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 15-Year-Old (107 proof): Leather and dark fruit complement the oak in this well-aged expression, delivering a rich and layered experience.
- Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 20-Year-Old (90.4 proof): Indulge in the sweet notes of caramel and cinnamon sugar, subtly spiced for added depth.
- Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon 23-Year-Old (95.6 proof): The pinnacle of the collection, offering a luxurious and mature profile with vanilla, maple, honey, and oak notes.
Buffalo Trace has announced increased availability of the 20 and 23-year-old bourbons this year, a welcome, albeit modest, improvement for those pursuing these elusive bottles. However, finding Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve will still require dedication and effort. Your best strategy is to connect with your local liquor stores to inquire about potential allocations and lottery opportunities. For those seeking immediate access, online platforms like ReserveBar and Caskers may have listings, but be prepared for prices significantly above SRP and always verify the offered vintage year.
The hunt for Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve remains a part of its allure. While challenging to acquire at retail, the experience of tasting these carefully crafted bourbons is a testament to the Van Winkle family’s enduring legacy and commitment to quality.
