Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 20 Years Old 2008 100% Stitzel-Weller

Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 20 Year Old (2008 release) is the 100% Stitzel-Weller-distilled Pappy 20 Year — the legendary Van Winkle wheated bourbon family’s flagship aged expression, rated 99/100 by the World Spirits Championship, bottled at 90.4 proof for the wonderfully smooth and rich Stitzel-Weller character. Aged 20 years, drawn from one of the most revered batches in the Pappy 20 Year continuum.

The 2008 release falls within the period when Pappy 20 Year bottlings drew directly from remaining Stitzel-Weller stock distilled before the original Stitzel-Weller distillery closed in 1992. Stitzel-Weller is universally considered the gold standard for wheated bourbon, and the 100% Stitzel-Weller Pappy releases (which ceased in subsequent years as the original stock was exhausted) sit at the pinnacle of the Van Winkle lineup. Bottled by Old Rip Van Winkle under Julian Van Winkle III’s direction.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Dark amber and dark orange cast
• Aromas: Oiled leather, smoke, minerals, coffee, cigar boxes
• Body: Full-bodied with citrus zest, sherry notes, dried fruits, and vanilla
• Finish: Long, infinite, and elegant

Specs

• Brand: Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve (Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery)
• Style: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey — Wheated, 100% Stitzel-Weller
• Age: 20 Years
• Release: 2008
• Proof: 90.4 (45.2% ABV)
• Awards: 99/100 World Spirits Championship
• Size: 750ml

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