Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year

2018 Release Nose - Caramel, cherry vanilla coke, milk chocolate, hint of leather Taste - Caramel, cinnamon sugar toast, cherry vanilla coke syrup, hint of leather/oaky bitterness, cocoa nibs Finish - Lingering oak, leather, cocoa nibs, light cherry, vanilla caramel Score - 90/100 Final Thoughts - This is a good, very well balanced and put together bourbon for sure. Nothing too terribly off putting from start to finish. Nice cherry vanilla coke vibe from this which I really like, but wish was more present because it's a bit on the subtle side. I haven't had too many other vintages of Pappy 15 before, but this seemed to be a bit on the oaky/bitter/tannic side. I typically don't mind this as I'm a fan of Elijah Craig, but this was a tiny bit distracting from the subtle sweet cherry vanilla caramel of this one. This is an excellent bourbon for sure, but I'm not sure I'd pay more than what I did for it. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - Maybe Would I buy a bottle? - At MSRP yes NOTE - All reviews are done without factoring in price.

Great flavor

Definitely the best of the Pappy lineup but not the best overall. Slightly muddled flavor. Not as complex as many other options. Very good but too much hype.

Super smooth

Best Bourbon to date for me 12/30

Sweet a smooth. Slight smoke on the back. A little heat. Easy to drink. Some lingering cherry and spicy notes