Old Rip Van Winkle
United States
Founded in: 1972

All about Old Rip Van Winkle

Old Rip Van Winkle is a legendary brand with over 100 years of history. Here’s everything you need to know about it, plus some of the best Old Rip Van Winkle whiskey options to check out.

What Is Old Rip Van Winkle Known For?

Old Rip Van Winkle is all about making top-notch whiskey that’s made for enjoying. It comes with a higher price tag than many run-of-the-mill options, but it’s worth every penny. 

Plus, this iconic brand made bourbon history by swapping rye for wheat in the mash bill, giving it a unique and unforgettable flavor profile (and we couldn’t be more grateful)!

Types of Old Rip Van Winkle 

There are a lot of Old Rip Van Winkle options out there with some of the most common ones being the 10-year and 15-year whiskeys. However, more premium options, including the Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve 23 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey, are also available.

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All about Old Rip Van Winkle distillery

Old Rip Van Winkle has been around for a long time and in this section, we explore its roots, where it comes from, who it's for, and even the best way to enjoy it. Learn more about Old Rip Van Winkle and find the perfect sipping whiskey for you below.

What Is Old Rip Van Winkle’s History

Old Rip Van Winkle’s story starts with Julian "Pappy" Van Winkle, who was selling whiskey from a horse and buggy in the early 1900s. What makes this tale truly remarkable is how Julian redefined whiskey after Prohibition. When he took the reins at W.L. Weller & Sons and the A. Ph. Stitzel Distillery, he introduced a game-changing bourbon recipe that swapped rye for wheat. 

That move gave birth to a whole new whiskey flavor profile, one that’s as unique today as it was back then. With a variety of options, Old Rip Van Winkle continues to impress whiskey lovers everywhere.

Where Is Old Rip Van Winkle Made?

Old Rip Van Winkle is crafted in Franklin County, Kentucky, at the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery, a powerhouse in the whiskey world.

Who Is Old Rip Van Winkle a Good Option For?

Old Rip Van Winkle is for someone who wants a whiskey to cherish and sip on for years to come. Most of their whiskey options are pricey, so it's not something you want to mix with anything or drink as a shot. Instead, it's the perfect option for someone who loves to sip whiskey on the rocks or with a splash of water.

Which Old Rip Van Winkle Product Is Right For Me?

Old Rip Van Winkle has a lot of options, and they're all premium whiskeys. If you’re new to the world of high-end whiskey, you might want to start with something like the 10-year whiskey. 

On the other hand, if you’re a collector, you may want something like the Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve 23 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey instead.

What Are Good Old Rip Van Winkle Drink Gifts?

The beauty of Old Rip Van Winkle bourbon is that it's a high-end whiskey, so any option is a great gift! Even their entry-level options are premium and a whiskey worth cherishing, so you can't go wrong with something simple like the 10-year or 15-year. Something more complex, like the 20-year, is perfect for the whiskey connoisseur in your life. If you’d like to gift someone a selection of similar whiskey options to help expand their liquor shelf, our tasting boxes may be the perfect gift!

What Are Some Good Old Rip Van Winkle Cocktail Recipes?

Old Rip Van Winkle is perfect for sipping but not the best for cocktails. However, if you want to sweeten it up or alter the flavor just a tad, adding bitters or an orange garnish along with some simple sugar will help you make a delightful Old Fashioned.

What Is the Most Popular Old Rip Van Winkle Product?

The most popular Old Rip Van Winkle product is their Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year Old. It's the most affordable option and a great place to start if you want to wet your whistle with a more premium whiskey.

Distillery info
  • Country: United States
  • Established: 1972