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BourbonKentuckyUSA

Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year

by Buffalo Trace Distillery
CaramelVanillaOakyNuttyHoneyDried Fruit
🛒 Buy this bottle — ReserveBar(affiliate)

🔬 Whiskey Details

Type
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Age
12 Year
Region
Kentucky
Distillery
Buffalo Trace Distillery

🎨 Flavor Profile

CaramelVanillaOakyNuttyHoneyDried Fruit

📝 Tasting Notes

👃 Nose

Rich aromas of caramel corn and vanilla custard lead into layers of toasted pecans, honey, and dried apricots. Well-integrated oak brings notes of cinnamon stick, light char, and a touch of worn leather that adds maturity without heaviness.

👅 Palate

Balanced and refined with creamy vanilla, butterscotch, and maple syrup complemented by roasted nuts and baking spices. The wheat-forward mashbill shines through with a gentle, soft sweetness while oak tannins provide backbone and complexity.

🔥 Finish

Long and satisfying, with warm oak, lingering caramel, and gentle spice notes that evolve into a subtle nuttiness.

🥃 How to Enjoy

Recommended
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Neat

The purist's choice. Full oak, vanilla, and caramel come through at room temperature with no dilution.

🧊
On the Rocks

A single large cube slows dilution and tames heat on high-proof pours. Wheated bourbons are especially good this way.

💧
With Water

On 100+ proof bottles, a few drops settle the alcohol burn and let the grain and spice breathe.

💡 High-proof and single barrel releases shine neat. Save the rocks for everyday-sipper bourbons.
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