Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 20 Years Old 2011 100% Stitzel-Weller (75cl, 45.2%)

This is a 20 year old wheated Kentucky straight bourbon, bottled in 2011 and made entirely from Stitzel-Weller distillate. It is bottled at 45.2% ABV (90.4 proof) in a 75cl bottle, by Old Rip Van Winkle with Buffalo Trace. Stitzel-Weller was Pappy Van Winkle Sr.'s distillery in Louisville, which closed in 1992. The wheated mash bill gives a softer, rounder bourbon. The colour is dark amber and orange. The nose brings oiled leather, smoke, minerals, coffee and cigar box. On the palate it is smooth, with citrus zest, sherry, dried fruits and vanilla, leading to a long, elegant finish.