Emma Jones
A Tribute to Anthony Bourdain’s Beloved Bourbon
In the world of whiskey, there’s a legendary drink that stands out among the rest. It’s not just its smooth, smoky flavor or its deep amber hue that draw aficionados from all walks of life. But also the fact that it was a favorite of one of the most iconic figures in culinary history – Anthony Bourdain. This beloved bourbon is none other than Kentucky’s finest – the historic Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve.
What is Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve?
The Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve is a line of ultrapremium bourbon and rye whiskeys that are made by the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery, a family-owned whiskey brand based in Kentucky. This bourbon is somewhat akin to a unicorn in the whiskey world — it’s treasured, sought after, and quite elusive. Every year, the distillery releases a limited amount of bottles, which, due to their high demand, can be incredibly hard to find.
The Legacy of Pappy Van Winkle
The story of Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve began with Julian “Pappy” Van Winkle, Sr., who started out as a salesperson for W.L. Weller & Sons before he and another partner bought the firm. He later acquired the A. Ph. Stitzel Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, and merged both firms to create the Stitzel-Weller Distillery.
The distillery opened up on Kentucky Derby Day in 1935, which went on to produce a variety of revered bourbon brands such as Old Fitzgerald, Rebel Yell, and, of course, the now iconic Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve. Although ‘Pappy’ passed away in 1965, his family continued the distillation process following traditional methods and maintaining the same exacting standards.
Why Did Bourdain Love Pappy Van Winkle?
Anyone familiar with Bourdain’s carefree style and his discerning taste for food and drink knows well that his love of bourbon was no secret, especially his adoration for Pappy Van Winkle. Hosting shows like “Parts Unknown,” Bourdain had the fortunate role of being able to venture into the wide array of food and drink culture around the world. With this exposure, he developed an impeccable palate for the finest things in life.
Introducing The World to Pappy Van Winkle
The late Anthony Bourdain’s passion for good food and remarkable drinks took him to many places, introducing his audience to myriads of delectable delights. It was during one of these exploratory adventures on his show ‘No Reservations’ that Bourdain discovered Pappy Van Winkle. He quickly fell in love with the distinctive taste profile and rich, silky warmth of Pappy Van Winkle’s bourbon.
Speaking on the show, Bourdain explained the appeal of the bourbon using his signature style: It’s “an incredibly wonderful, sophisticated, and, at the same time, direct and assertive bourbon…It tastes like the very best sort of autumn day … a bourbon that first hits you like a big, luscious, soft, warm, gentle hug and then over time, it shows its ultimate character.”
Securing a Bottle of Pappy Van Winkle
With demand far outstripping supply, getting one’s hands on a bottle of Pappy Van Winkle might seem like an impossible quest. However, those who meet the hefty price tag (which can climb into the thousands, depending on the specific expression of the bourbon) and who can find a reliable source might be lucky enough to taste this delightful bourbon for themselves.
The Legacy of Anthony Bourdain and Pappy Van Winkle
Both Bourdain and Pappy Van Winkle shared a similar philosophy: a dedication to their craft, an unwavering attention to detail, and an embracing of tradition. As Bourdain continued to share his love for Pappy Van Winkle with his audience, he amplified the bourbon’s profile globally, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence culinary and beverage enthusiasts worldwide.
In his own way, Anthony Bourdain lauded Pappy Van Winkle not just as a bourbon, but as a testament to artisanal craft, heritage, and passion – values that Bourdain himself exemplified throughout his career. So next time you pour yourself a glass of bourbon, take a moment to savor the taste and remember the legacy of Anthony Bourdain and his beloved Pappy Van Winkle.
