Van Winkle 2026 Whiskey Collection: six aged bourbons and a rye, with prices and tasting notes

# What was announced Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery and Buffalo Trace Distillery confirmed the 2026 Van Winkle Whiskey Collection on 10 September 2026. The annual limited release will be distributed across the United States via Sazerac's network to retailers, bars and restaurants.

# The lineup and prices

• Old Rip Van Winkle Handmade Bourbon 10-Year-Old — $169.99
• Van Winkle Special Reserve Bourbon 12-Year-Old — $199.99
• Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13-Year-Old — $299.99
• Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve Bourbon 15-Year-Old — $299.99
• Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve Bourbon 20-Year-Old — $399.99
• Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve Bourbon 23-Year-Old — $499.99

Prices were also shown in pounds in the announcement but final retail amounts depend on local fees and taxes.

# Tasting notes supplied by the brand The brand published official notes for each expression:

• 13-Year Rye: chestnut, vanilla, cocoa and white pepper in the official notes.
• 15-Year: caramel corn and vanilla balanced by leather and seasoned oak.
• 20-Year: citrus zest, sherry notes, dried fruit and vanilla.
• 23-Year: ripe apple and cherry with caramel, oak, tobacco and a trace of chocolate.

# Production and selection process The release is produced in highly limited quantities and returns each year in similar form but with barrel-level variation. Buffalo Trace master distiller Harlen Wheatley works with the Van Winkle family to select barrels that meet the standards for each expression. The family stated that maturation over time creates subtle variations and that no two releases can be replicated.

# Family statements and legacy context Preston Van Winkle, vice-president and fourth generation, said: "Every year, we look forward to the opportunity to share these whiskeys with people who have followed our family's story and appreciate the time and care behind each bottle."

Julian P. Van Winkle III, president, added: "For me, each bottle is a connection to the generations who came before us and to the patience, pride and traditions they passed down." The announcement also recaps the family's historical ties stretching back to the late 1800s and the partnership with Buffalo Trace established in 2002.

# Buying advice and counterfeit warning The family emphasized that neither Old Rip Van Winkle nor Buffalo Trace controls retail pricing. They urged consumers to purchase through licensed sellers to avoid counterfeits and scams. If a consumer suspects they have a counterfeit bottle they should not consume it and are advised to report it to the Better Business Bureau and their State Attorney General's office. The brand's website—oldripvanwinkle.com—was listed for more information.

# Practical takeaway If you plan to buy: expect limited availability, variable retailer pricing above suggested retail, and barrel-to-barrel differences year to year. Use licensed U.S. retailers and official distribution channels, and verify provenance if buying secondary-market bottles.