Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23 Year Old (2005 Gold Wax, Bottle #15) is an exceptionally rare early-release expression of the legendary Pappy 23 — a limited bottling with a dipped gold wax capsule, individually numbered as Bottle #15, and presented with a fine black velvet bag. Each barrel ages 23 years and is carefully selected from the heart of the warehouse. Best enjoyed neat.

The 2005 release is among the earliest and most collected Pappy 23 Year bottlings, produced when Buffalo Trace had recently taken over Van Winkle production (May 2002) using Pappy’s exact wheated recipe. The gold wax capsule and low bottle number make this a particularly significant collector’s item. Distilled in the heart of Kentucky at Buffalo Trace Distillery and bottled by Old Rip Van Winkle.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Caramel and cream with soft notes of oak, nuts, and leather
• Palate: Sweet — vanilla, maple, and honey joined by citrus and spice
• Finish: Long-lasting and oaky, carrying the early flavors through

Specs

• Brand: Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve (Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery)
• Style: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey — Wheated
• Age: 23 Years
• Release: 2005, Gold Wax, Bottle #15
• Presentation: Dipped gold wax capsule, black velvet bag
• Size: 750ml

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