Pappy Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year Bourbon

Product Description

Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year: The Perfect Combination of Age and Proof

Van Winkle Special Reserve, better known among enthusiasts simply as "Lot B," is aged twelve years and embodies the balance of maturity and smoothness that defines the Van Winkle family name. As Buffalo Trace itself describes it, "the 12 years of aging and medium proof of 90.4 seem to be just right in creating a very pleasant drink of whiskey." Renowned critic F. Paul Pacult went a step further, noting that "this fine bourbon can compete with any excellent cognac as an after-dinner drink," and the whiskey has been described by admirers for years simply as "nectar."

Like the rest of the Van Winkle lineup, including the famous Pappy 15, 20, and 23 Year expressions, Lot B is crafted using Buffalo Trace's wheated bourbon mash bill, the same recipe family shared with W.L. Weller, honoring the legacy of Julian "Pappy" Van Winkle. Since 2002, Van Winkle bourbons have been produced at Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, as a joint venture between the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery and Buffalo Trace, carrying forward more than a century of Van Winkle family bourbon-making tradition.

Bottled at a medium 90.4 proof, Lot B strikes a genuinely rare balance: old enough to develop real depth and complexity, yet approachable enough to be enjoyed by newcomers and seasoned collectors alike. Combined with its extremely limited annual allocation, it remains one of the most searched-for and difficult-to-find bourbons in the entire Van Winkle range.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Rich amber, well-aged in appearance.

Nose: Light aromas of dried mango, cocoa, fruit, spiced peach, and luscious, complex toffee.

Palate: Round and supple entry leading to a dry, expansive, medium body, with caramel, nuts, brown spices, honey, and oak.

Finish: Balanced and dry, with a lingering tingle and tobacco note.

Food Pairings

Lot B's balanced toffee-and-oak profile pairs beautifully alongside dried fruit, roasted nuts, or a charcuterie board with aged cheddar, or served after dinner alongside dark chocolate as a genuine alternative to a fine cognac.

Serving Suggestions

Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year is best enjoyed neat, since ice or water dilutes its character. It's an excellent choice as an after-dinner sipper, poured slowly to appreciate its full range of dried fruit, toffee, and spice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is "Lot B"? Lot B is the common nickname for Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year, referring to this specific batch designation within the Van Winkle wheated bourbon lineup.

What is the alcohol content? 45.2% ABV (90.4 proof).

How old is this bourbon? 12 years, using Buffalo Trace's wheated bourbon mash bill.

How does this compare to W.L. Weller 12 Year? Both share the same wheated mash bill and 12-year age statement, making them frequently compared. Differences are subtle, though Lot B's rarity and Van Winkle pedigree have made it significantly more sought-after.

Is this bourbon hard to find? Yes. Like the rest of the Van Winkle lineup, Lot B is released in extremely limited quantities annually and is highly allocated.

How should I enjoy it? Neat, with no ice or water, to fully preserve its balance and complexity.

Explore More

Love Pappy Van Winkle? Shop our full Pappy Van Winkle collection for Old Rip 10 Year, 15, 20, and 23 Year releases, Family Reserve Rye, and rare bundles.

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