Overview of Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23yr Bourbon Whiskey:
User Rating
4.4 Stars
Producer
Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery
Alcohol %
47.80%
Product Type
Whiskey Bourbon
Pair With
Chocolate, sweet potatoes
Size
750ml
Region
United States
Awards
World Whiskies Awards, 2016: American Bourbon Whiskey Age Statement
World Whiskies Awards, 2014: Best American Bourbon 8 Years and Over
International Wine & Spirit Competition, 2011: Gold
Los Angeles International Wine Competition, 2010: Gold
Notes
Ownership: Buffalo Trace Distillery
Critic Scores & User Ratings are based on an aggregated international Global Wine Score (GWS).
Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23yr Bourbon Whiskey - Item Code: 08141
Tasting Notes and Characteristics:
Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23yr Bourbon Whiskey offers a luxurious sipping experience, perfect for special occasions or quiet evenings when only the finest will do. With an ABV of 47.8%, this bourbon is crafted in the United States using a wheated mash bill, which imparts a smooth, rounded character. The extended aging process in new charred oak barrels gives it remarkable depth and complexity, making each pour feel like an event.
On the palate, Pappy Van Winkle 23yr reveals layers of caramelized sugar, dried fruits, vanilla bean, and toasted oak with subtle hints of leather and spice. Its rich mouthfeel pairs beautifully with dark chocolate, enhancing both the whiskey’s sweetness and the chocolate’s bitterness. When enjoyed alongside smoked brisket, its smoky undertones and gentle warmth complement the meat’s savory flavors for a truly memorable pairing experience.
Producer Information: Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery
Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery is based in Frankfort, Kentucky, a region celebrated for its rich bourbon heritage. The distillery traces its origins to the late 19th century when Julian P. “Pappy” Van Winkle Sr. began his career in the whiskey business, eventually acquiring a stake in the A. Ph. Stitzel Distillery before Prohibition. Today, Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery operates with a focus on traditional methods, emphasizing long aging periods and small-batch production to ensure quality and consistency in every bottle.
Beyond their flagship wheated bourbons, Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery offers an array of aged expressions that highlight different mash bills and maturation techniques. Their portfolio includes highly sought-after releases such as Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve at various age statements, as well as special bottlings like the Van Winkle Special Reserve and Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year Bourbon. The distillery is also known for producing limited-edition rye whiskeys that showcase their expertise with alternative grains and barrel management practices within American whiskey production.
Ordering and Delivery Options for this Bourbon
Alcohol Delivery & Pickup Methods
All alcohol delivery orders will be confirmed by email during business hours within 1 business day. If there are any problems with your order, we will contact you via email. We use the following fulfillment methods:
Planning to pick up a bottle in person? Here’s how to reach our Bronx store from the Metro Botanical Garden station:
Directions:
From the Metro station, Head northwest on Bedford Park Blvd toward Webster Ave (282 ft).
Turn right onto Webster Ave (0.1 mi).
Turn left onto E Mosholu Pkwy S (1.0 mi).
Turn left toward Goulden Ave (0.1 mi).
Turn right onto Goulden Ave (259 ft).
Turn left onto Sedgwick Ave (0.3 mi).
Turn right onto Van Cortlandt Ave W (0.2 mi).
Slight left onto Bailey Ave (0.2 mi).
Turn right onto W 238th St (0.2 mi).
Turn left onto Broadway (364 ft).
You have arrived at our store.
Store Address:
Broadway Liquor & Wine Warehouse
5790 Broadway, Bronx, NY 10463, United States.
Bourbon is a distinct style of whiskey that must be made from at least 51% corn, giving it a unique sweetness and character. This American spirit is primarily produced in the United States, with Kentucky being its most famous region, although it can also be found in states like Tennessee and Indiana. Bourbon undergoes distillation using either pot stills or column stills and is typically distilled to no more than 125 proof (62.5% ABV). To qualify as straight bourbon, it must be aged for a minimum of two years in new charred oak barrels.
The flavor profile of bourbon is rich and complex, often featuring notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice—particularly from rye when used as an additional grain. Its texture tends to be smooth with a full-bodied mouthfeel that can finish sweetly with hints of chocolate or nutmeg. Bourbon’s versatility makes it a popular choice for classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Mint Julep, and Bourbon Sour. Variations like straight bourbon, small batch bourbon, single barrel bourbon, and high rye bourbon further showcase the diversity within this beloved spirit category.