Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey

Graceful, richly textured, and unmistakably classic, Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year is a benchmark wheated bourbon prized for its softness, depth, and quiet complexity. It balances mature oak, caramel sweetness, and gentle spice in a refined, effortlessly drinkable style that has earned cult status.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Produced at Buffalo Trace Distillery under the stewardship of the Van Winkle family, Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year Old is crafted using a wheated bourbon mash bill, replacing rye with wheat for a softer, rounder profile. The bourbon is aged a full decade in new charred American oak barrels, allowing time to develop complexity while retaining balance and approachability.

Bottled at 107 proof, this expression offers more intensity than its lower-proof siblings while maintaining the signature Van Winkle elegance. The extended aging and wheated recipe emphasize sweetness, texture, and polished oak rather than sharp spice or heat.

Critics Reviews

Bourbon critics and leading whiskey writers routinely cite Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year as one of the most important wheated bourbons on the market. Reviewers praise its seamless integration of proof and age, noting its balance of richness and drinkability. Spirits commentators frequently highlight its silky mouthfeel and classic profile, often calling it one of the most versatile and satisfying expressions in the Van Winkle lineup.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Caramel, vanilla bean, and brown sugar layered with toasted oak, dried fruit, and a hint of baking spice.

Palate:
Full and rounded, delivering flavors of toffee, honeyed grain, soft cinnamon, and oak sweetness with a smooth, oily texture.

Finish:
Long and warming, with lingering caramel, gentle spice, and well-integrated oak that fades cleanly and gracefully.

Quick Overview