Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year Old bottled at 107 proof — a bourbon that merits close attention.
Nose
Very clean and soft, like a fresh-washed comforter. Notes of red-skinned plum, Rainier cherry, and fresh grain combine for a fruity, sweet nose reminiscent of summer cobbler. s of white grape, Riesling, and Swedish fish gummy candies surface, and the On the palate it’s juicy and almost unctuous, with notes of sweet honey, soft tobacco, and caramel alongside a soft, quenching acidity like a ripe peach. The finish is surprisingly warm and gingery, with a long, lingering exit. The sensation is so plush – rich and full-bodied without being hot. With water, aromas of white grape, Riesling, and Swedish fish gummy candies surface, and the palate leans woodier. The finish is surprisingly warm and gingery, with a long, lingering exit. The sensation is so plush – rich and full-bodied without being hot. With water, aromas of white grape, Riesling, and Swedish fish gummy candies surface, and the palate leans woodier.
Palate
I didn’t expect this whiskey to be as fun as it was – fruity, sweet, full of life. It’s not the most complex bourbon I’ve ever tasted, but it is undoubtedly an enjoyable one (and, I imagine, is the world’s best accompaniment to peach cobbler on a warm summer evening).
Finish
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
Verdict
Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year Old is an exceptional expression that stands among the finest in its category. It rewards patience and attention in equal measure, and we recommend it without reservation.
