Tasting Notes

Pappy Van Winkle’s 13 Year Old Family Reserve Rye is one of the rarest and most sought-after rye whiskeys, crafted from a unique mashbill and aged for 13 years in new charred American oak. The nose opens with luxurious aromas of caramel, vanilla, and honey layered with dried fruit, toasted oak, and baking spice. On the palate, it is rich and complex, offering flavors of toffee, cocoa, roasted nuts, and dark fruit balanced by cinnamon, clove, and peppery rye spice. The long aging imparts both smoothness and depth, giving the whiskey an elegant yet powerful character. The finish is exceptionally long and refined, with lingering notes of caramel, oak, and warm spice.

Food Pairings

Starter Spiced pecans or smoked charcuterie, reflecting the whiskey’s nutty sweetness and spice.

Main Course Pepper-crusted steak or braised short ribs, where the rye’s bold spice and caramel richness complement savory depth.

Cheese Aged cheddar or blue cheese, both standing up to the whiskey’s intensity.

Dessert Dark chocolate tart or pecan pie, echoing the whiskey’s cocoa, nut, and caramel layers.