As a whiskey enthusiast, I’ve always been intrigued by the highly sought-after Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year, also known as Lot “B”. This 12-year-old bourbon is often seen as a prized possession among collectors and connoisseurs, with its reputation for being a balanced and full-bodied whiskey. I’m eager to dive into this review and share my thoughts on this elusive bourbon.
In my experience with whiskey, I’ve found that a spirit’s age and proof play a significant role in its overall flavor profile and enjoyability. The Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year boasts a medium proof of 90.4, which is said to contribute to its pleasant drinking experience. I’m particularly interested in exploring the range of flavors and aromas this whiskey has to offer and determining whether it lives up to the hype it has generated.
Throughout my review, I will draw upon my personal experiences, as well as insights from various sources to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year. By the end of this article, I hope to provide fellow whiskey aficionados with a better understanding of this exceptional bourbon and whether it’s worth adding to their collection or enjoying as an after-dinner drink.
Table of Contents
Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year Overview
Product History
As a fan of quality whiskeys, I’ve taken quite an interest in the Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year bourbon. This bourbon, which is distilled at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, is a perfect combination of age and proof. It is sweet and full-bodied, with 12 years of aging and a medium proof of 90.4, making it a very pleasant drink.
The Van Winkle Special Reserve has been described by some as “nectar” and can compete with any excellent cognac as an after-dinner drink. Being a part of the Van Winkle family of whiskeys, it carries the legacy of expertise in crafting fine bourbon.
Price Range
When it comes to pricing, I’ve noticed that the Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year bourbon can vary depending on availability and where you purchase it. The bourbon has a reputation for being a highly sought-after product, which can sometimes cause the price to increase.
However, as a general guide, the price range for a bottle of Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year can be found between $400 and $600. I encourage all bourbon enthusiasts to do some research and find the best price available in their area.
In summary, the Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year bourbon is not only a delicious whiskey but also a part of a highly regarded family of bourbon products. Its history and price range make it a great addition to any whiskey lover’s collection.
Tasting Notes
Aroma
The aroma of Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year is quite inviting. I immediately noticed light fragrances of dried mango, cocoa, fruit, and spiced peach. There is also a hint of wood, clove, and mint, creating a uniquely layered aroma that sets the stage for an enjoyable tasting experience.
Flavor
Upon tasting, I found that the Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year has a sweet, full-bodied flavor profile. It has a moderate citrus taste accompanied by subdued notes of honey and grain. This combination somewhat reminds me of orange marmalade on toast. The sweetness and richness of the whiskey can be compared to that of a “nectar.”
Finish
The finish of this whiskey is smooth and pleasant. It lingers just long enough, allowing me to savor the combination of flavors. Interestingly, the 12 years of aging and medium proof of 90.4 create a very balanced drink without any overpowering alcohol taste or burn.
Rating
Based on a 100-point scale, I would rate the Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year as follows:
- 90-100: Exceptional
- 80-89: Very Good
- 70-79: Average
- 60-69: Below Average
- 50-60: Drain Pour
Given the aroma, flavor, and finish of this whiskey, I would place it in the “Very Good” category (80-89).
Mixing and Pairing
In this section, I’ll share my thoughts on the best mixers, cocktail suggestions, and food pairings for Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year to enhance your whiskey experience.
Best Mixers
Given the character of Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year, it’s best to choose mixers that don’t overshadow the whiskey’s natural flavors. Here are my top picks for mixers that complement this fine bourbon:
- Ginger ale: For a refreshing and slightly spicy mixer, ginger ale is an excellent choice to pair with Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year.
- Club soda: Club soda is a simple and unassuming mixer that allows the whiskey’s flavors to shine through.
- Simple syrup & lemon juice: Combine simple syrup and freshly squeezed lemon juice for a sweet and tangy whiskey sour. Remember, a little goes a long way.
Cocktail Suggestions
photo source: Shutterstock.com
When it comes to crafting cocktails with Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year, simplicity is key. Here are a couple of my favorite whiskey cocktail suggestions:
- Old Fashioned: In a glass, muddle a sugar cube, a splash of water, and two dashes of bitters. Add 2 oz of Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year and stir. Fill the glass with ice and garnish with an orange peel.
- Whiskey Sour: Combine 2 oz of whiskey, 3/4 oz simple syrup, and 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice in a shaker with ice. Shake well, and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Food Pairings
photo source: Shutterstock.com
To truly savor the flavors of Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year, consider pairing it with complementary dishes. Here are a few food pairing ideas to get you started:
- Cheeses: Try pairing Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year with sharp, aged cheddar or smoky gouda to accentuate the whiskey’s sweet and full-bodied character.
- Meats: Slow-cooked meats such as barbecued ribs, pulled pork, or roasted lamb can offer a delicious contrast to the whiskey’s sweetness.
- Desserts: Chocolate-based desserts like dark chocolate brownies or chocolate mousse can be a simply divine way to enjoy Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year as an after-dinner treat.
Conclusion
After sampling the Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year and comparing it with other whiskies, I’ve come to a few conclusions about this renowned bourbon.
Firstly, I’ve found that the 12-year aging process and medium proof gives the Van Winkle Special Reserve a remarkable balance between sweetness and depth. This creates a truly enjoyable sipping experience that could easily rival an after-dinner cognac.
Moreover, the bourbon offers a pleasant array of flavors such as caramel, nuts, and brown spices, accompanied by subtle notes of incense, clove, wood, and mint. As I added water to the bourbon, I also noticed a shift towards more floral notes, including pear cider, honey, beeswax, and red currant.
It is worth mentioning, though, that while the Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year is undeniably a high-quality bourbon, it may lack the “wow” factor some whiskey enthusiasts might seek. Despite that, I believe the bourbon’s smooth and decadent nature makes it a worthwhile addition to any collection.
In the end, the Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year offers a delightful experience that is sure to impress both casual drinkers and bourbon aficionados alike. For me, it has undoubtedly earned its reputation as a cherished spirit in the world of whiskey.
