Pappy Van Winkle, 20 Year is a highly sought after bourbon produced by the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery in Kentucky. It is known for its rich and complex flavors, which are the result of its long aging process in oak barrels. In this review, we will delve into the various aspects of this whiskey and provide a detailed assessment of its taste, aroma, and overall quality.
The first thing to note about Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year is its impressive age statement. The bourbon is aged for a full two decades, which is considerably longer than most other bourbons on the market. This extended aging process has a profound impact on the flavor profile of the whiskey, as it allows the spirit to absorb a range of complex flavors from the oak barrels in which it is stored.
One of the most noticeable aspects of Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year is its deep, rich color. The bourbon has a dark amber hue that is indicative of its long aging process. When poured into a glass, it has a thick, oily texture that clings to the sides of the glass.
As we bring the glass to our nose, we are greeted with a complex aroma that is both sweet and spicy. The scent of vanilla, caramel, and brown sugar is immediately apparent, followed by notes of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. There is also a subtle hint of oak that adds to the overall complexity of the aroma.
Moving on to the taste, we find that Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year is an incredibly rich and flavorful bourbon. The initial sip is sweet and smooth, with notes of caramel, toffee, and honey. As we let the whiskey linger on our tongue, we begin to detect hints of spice, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. The oak flavor is also prominent, with a slight smokiness that adds to the overall depth of the flavor profile.
One of the most impressive things about Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year is its balance. Despite its complex flavors, there is a remarkable harmony between the different elements of the whiskey. The sweetness of the caramel and honey is perfectly complemented by the spiciness of the cinnamon and nutmeg, and the oak flavor provides a solid foundation for the overall flavor profile.
The finish of Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year is long and satisfying, with a pleasant warmth that spreads throughout the body. The aftertaste is characterized by a subtle sweetness and a lingering smokiness that reminds us of the whiskey’s long aging process.
In terms of overall quality, Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year is undoubtedly one of the best bourbons on the market. Its complex flavor profile, balance, and smoothness make it a whiskey that can be appreciated by both novice and experienced bourbon drinkers alike. However, its high price tag and limited availability make it a luxury item that is not accessible to everyone.
In conclusion, Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year is a remarkable bourbon that is sure to impress even the most discerning whiskey connoisseur. Its long aging process, complex flavor profile, and exceptional balance make it a true masterpiece of the bourbon world. If you have the opportunity to try it, we highly recommend that you do so.
Want to know what we think of the Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year or the Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year Bourbon? Check out those reviews! READ PAPPY VAN WINKLE 15 YEAR REVIEW | PAPPY VAN WINKLE 23 YEAR REVIEW
Want to learn more about Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year Bourbon, Visit Old Rip Van Winkel’s Website