Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve is a highly sought-after brand of bourbon whiskey that is considered the pinnacle of luxury spirits. It is owned by the “Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery” company, which is a family-owned business specializing in the production of premium bourbon.
The Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery was originally founded by Julian “Pappy” Van Winkle Sr. in the late 19th century. Pappy Van Winkle was a renowned bourbon salesman who eventually decided to venture into the distilling business himself. He purchased the A. Ph. Stitzel Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, which became the birthplace of the iconic Pappy Van Winkle bourbon.
Over the years, the Van Winkle family continued to produce and sell their bourbon, gaining a loyal following of enthusiasts who appreciated the exceptional quality and flavor of their spirits. However, due to various circumstances, including changes in ownership and the decline of the bourbon industry, the brand faced challenges in the mid-20th century.
In 1972, Julian Van Winkle III, Pappy Van Winkle’s grandson, made the decision to revive the family’s bourbon legacy. He formed a partnership with the Sazerac Company, a prominent spirits company based in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Sazerac Company, known for its expertise in whiskey production, agreed to distill and bottle the Van Winkle bourbons at their Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky.
This partnership proved to be immensely successful, as the combination of the Van Winkle family’s time-honored recipes and the Sazerac Company’s distilling prowess resulted in a bourbon that quickly gained legendary status. The limited availability and high demand for Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve only added to its allure, making it one of the most coveted bourbons in the world.
Today, the Sazerac Company continues to produce Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve in collaboration with the Van Winkle family. They adhere to the traditional methods and meticulous aging process that have made the brand so revered among bourbon aficionados.
It is worth noting that the ownership of Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve remains primarily with the Van Winkle family, who oversee the brand’s production and make important decisions regarding its future. The partnership with the Sazerac Company allows for the scalability and wider distribution of the bourbon, ensuring that more people can experience the exceptional taste of Pappy Van Winkle.
Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve is owned by the Van Winkle family, with the production and bottling being carried out by the Sazerac Company at their Buffalo Trace Distillery. Together, they have created a bourbon that has become synonymous with excellence and has garnered a devoted following around the world.