Van Winkle Special Reserve Lot "B" 12 Year

I really enjoyed this, but I had high expectations that weren't met. I'm a big Weller fan, having collected and enjoyed for awhile, now. But, have never ventured into Van Winkle territory. I have heard Weller 12yr is Pappy that doesnt meet the profile, and that Lot B is Pappy that doesnt quite make the cut (Special Reserve). That said, at least for 2018, Weller 12 is hands down better than this. Lot B was great, but was a little too corn forward on the nose and palate for me and slightly astringent on the finish, like a whisky that hasnt quite been aged enough (I know its the same age). All together, I would never above retail for this, but now I know. Aroma: Cherry, kettle corn, & caramel. Flavor: Orange rind, floral & herbal, caramel, & dried berries. Aftertaste: Oak, candy corn, & astringent Body: Med and dissipating.

Butterscotch and caramel on the nose. On the palate, this is so caramel driven it’s crazy. Very approachable. Finish is long with lingering caramel notes.

Full, some sweetness. Not as good as 10

Amazing. Any pappy is good