Description
Old Rip Van Winkle 23-Year-Old “Family Selection” 2009 Decanter A Rare, Legendary Bourbon
The Old Rip Van Winkle 23-Year-Old Family Selection (bottled in 2009) is one of the most coveted bourbons ever made by the Van Winkle family. With nearly a quarter-century of aging, a stunning presentation, and ultra-limited production, this decanter is a true collector’s masterpiece.
Old Rip Van Winkle 23 Years Product Overview
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Name: Old Rip Van Winkle Family Selection 23 Year Old
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Vintage: Distilled in 1986, bottled in 2009
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Age: 23 years
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Proof: 114 (57% ABV) bottled at original barrel entry proof
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Barrels: Hand-selected by Julian III and Preston Van Winkle for the Family Selection
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Limited Release: Only 1,200 decanters produced.
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Decanter & Case: Hand-engraved Glencairn crystal decanter, individually numbered; comes in a wooden, leather-lined presentation case along with two Glencairn glasses and a certificate signed by Julian P. Van Winkle III.
Tasting Notes
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Color: Deep mahogany with burnished copper undertones.
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Nose: Rich aromas of caramel, dried fruit, toasted oak, leather, and dark spice.
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Palate: Very dense and complex toffee, molasses, roasted nuts, dark chocolate, tobacco, and warm oak.
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Finish: Exceptionally long, velvety, and rich, with lingering oak sweetness, spice, and a whisper of smoke.
Why It’s Special
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Ultra-Rare & Highly Collectible: With only 1,200 decanters released, this bourbon is a trophy for serious collectors.
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Historic Age: A full 23 years in new American oak one of the longest-aged Van Winkles ever bottled.
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High Proof Authenticity: Bottled at the original barrel entry proof of 114, rather than the more common 95.6 proof for this age.
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Exquisite Presentation: The decanter is hand engraved and housed in a bespoke wooden box with two Glencairn glasses and a signed certificate.
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Legacy Selection: Barrels were hand-picked for this release by members of the Van Winkle family, making it a deeply personal and limited offering.
Collectibility & Investment
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Secondary Market Value: This bourbon commands a very high price, often tens of thousands of dollars.
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Rarity: Its scarcity, age, and presentation make it one of the most desirable Van Winkle bottlings.
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Legacy Bourbon: A true piece of Van Winkle history ideal for collectors, investors, or anyone with a deep appreciation for ultra-premium bourbon.
Ideal For:
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Serious Bourbon Collectors: For those looking to own one of the rarest and most historic Van Winkle releases.
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Gifting: A once-in-a-lifetime gift for a whiskey lover or collector.
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Long-Term Investment: Bottles like this often appreciate over time due to limited release and high demand.
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Luxury Tastings: Perfect for celebration, display, and sipping on special occasions.






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