If you want one of the more “modestly” priced bourbons from Pappy that still offers an incredible taste, consider a bottle of the Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year Old 107 Proof Bourbon Whiskey. This bourbon isn’t quite cask strength, but it’s close.
Opening the bottle, you’ll catch a whiff of cinnamon, wood, vanilla and orange. While not as smooth as the more aged Rip Van Winkle bourbons, it has a bold, charismatic flavor without burn. There are notes of molasses or caramel, nuts, cherry, apricot and spices. The finish has a hint of something floral (rose, perhaps), plus plenty of pepper.
One thing you should know about this particular Old Rip Van Winkle is that there is 90-proof as well as a 107-proof. It’s easier to come by the 107-proof nowadays since the 90-proof was discontinued back in 2011.
Compared to the Van Winkle Special Reserve Lot “B” 12 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey (see below), the 10 Year has a higher proof, which might impact your choice about which to purchase.
Choose This 10-Year Pappy Bourbon If:
Those in search of a high-proof, younger Pappy bourbon will appreciate the Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year Old 107 Proof. Along with the strength of this bourbon, you will also appreciate its (relatively) low price.