Pappy Van Winkle's 2002 12 Years Bourbon Whisky

Pappy Van Winkle was founded by Pappy Van Winkle Sr., beginning at the end of the 19th century and launching its eponymous brand in 1919. The brand survived Prohibition with a medicinal license. In 1935, the Stitzel-Weller Distillery was established, renowned for its bourbon recipe using wheat instead of rye. Passed down through three generations of the family, the brand remained steadfast even after the distillery was sold in 1972. The 20-year Family Reserve, launched in 1994, scored 99 points at the 1998 World Spirits Championship. Acquired by Buffalo Trace in 2002, the Pappy series has become a collector's icon in bourbon due to its exceptional quality and scarcity, representing a legendary American whiskey that embodies 'winning through quality.'