A Tasting of 4 Van Winkle Bourbon Whiskeys

Forman's Whiskey Tavern provides the ideal setting for a personal Pappy Van Winkle bourbon tasting, featuring their full selection of this rare whiskey

One seemingly ordinary Los Angeles afternoon, I found myself drawn back to Forman’s Whiskey Tavern. This time, however, the visit was anything but ordinary. I was there for a singular purpose: to indulge in a rare and extraordinary opportunity—crafting a custom whiskey flight featuring the legendary Van Winkle bourbons. For any whiskey enthusiast, the mere mention of Van Winkle evokes a sense of reverence. These bourbons are not just drinks; they are achievements.

As someone who cherishes life’s more distinctive experiences, the chance to explore all four Van Winkle expressions as a journey was an opportunity I simply couldn’t pass up. It was a chance to immerse myself in the nuances of each variant. This wasn’t going to be a casual tasting of run-of-the-mill spirits; it was a meticulously curated journey through some of the most exquisite bourbons America has to offer.

Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year

Arriving at Forman’s Whiskey Tavern, I took a seat at the bar. Priscilla started me off with my first pour: the OLD RIP VAN WINKLE 10 YEAR  (107 Proof  – wheat, cherry, oak, pecan, vanilla). This had a noticeable bite and a very strong spice on the tongue.

The aroma leaned heavily toward maple and oak, with an initial sharpness that softened into a smoky finish. Personally, I’d skip the 10-Year if it were on the menu. It’s too spicy to fully enjoy neat, and adding an ice cube felt almost sacrilegious. That said, the 10-Year shines best as a key ingredient in a premium mixed drink. This would allow its distinct edge to be transformed into a complex base.

But, I will say that it opened up in my glass as I made conversations at the bar. I also ordered the LOUISIANA WINGS (spicy & tangy wings, celery, ranch) and GARLIC PARMESAN FRIES.

Van Winkle 12 Year Lot “B”

With the VAN WINKLE 12 YEAR LOT “B” (90. 4 Proof – dried mango, cocoa, peach, honey, tobacco), I could immediately taste the difference.

Priscilla and I sniffed it together – her, the bottle and myself, my glass. We both noticed the sweeter, cinnamon-spiced aroma. The taste on the tongue was smooth and vanilla-creamy like. Yes, the woody cinnamon bite was there. However, the was much more subdued, offering a gentler spice compared to the 10-Year. However, I will say that after tasting the 10, the spice in the 12 became a bit more noticeable than I previously tasted during another visit.

Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year

The PAPPY VAN WINKLE 15 YEAR (107 Proof – caramel corn, vanilla, leather, spice, oak tannins)  takes a distinct turn – and this is where it gets fucking delicious.

It’s incredibly smooth, with hints of caramel and a sweeter profile. The bite and spiciness transformed into a velvety quality that was both distinct and beautiful.

On the nose, it carries a gentle sweetness, but the taste feels like a comforting old friend.

Another thing I loved is that it’s a place for people to just come and have fun. While sipping, I noticed a pair of guys playing Magic the Gathering at a table. I’m glad they were having a great time.

Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year

Soon, it was time for the grand dame of all whiskey dickriders: the PAPPY VAN WINKLE 20 YEAR (90.4 Proof – toitrus zest, sherry, dried fruit, vanilla).

When Phil, poured it, he handed it to me and said “Happy 20.”

This is American bourbon excellence, shining at its finest. The aroma was smooth and inviting, while the flavor was rich, bold, and commanding. The distinction between the 10-Year and the 20-Year is simply unparalleled. The Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year was brilliantly captivating, exuding a smoothness that spoke of regal refinement rather than empty bravado.

The flavor profile was deeply layered—caramel, toffee, and subtle hints of leather. Phil, another bartender, described notes of leather and cherry, which I found beautifully fitting.

This—this is a whiskey of true character. With every sip, the memory of the harsh bite of earlier years evolved into a playful, elegant dance on the palate.

When I’d taken my last sip and placed my glass on the counter, Phil congratulated me on doing what few people do: a full Pappy flight of all four. I was amused. I literally had my own private Van Winkle tasting.

Because, I am that woman.

Now, what I love about Forman’s Whiskey Tavern is that they also have Whiskey Specials on Wednesdays. Not only that, but Phil was kind enough to give me tasting of one of his favorite whiskey blends, Blanton Distilling Company’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

Not only that – but Phil also gave me two samples of his own bitter cocktail line, Better Bitters. Simply put, this was one of the most rewarding times I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing in Los Angeles.

The Van Winkles: My Recommendations

Now, there’s a lot of bravado and cock stroking about these bottles and about whiskey in general.  Frankly, I’ve done scotch tastings in Scotland so IDGAF. That being said, I feel I can give my honest opinion confidently, in my ranking.

Favorite: Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year

Solid Choice: Van Winkle 12 Year Lot “B”

Yes, Please: Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year

Don’t Bother Unless It’s In An Old Fashioned: Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year

Some things truly do get better with age—especially whiskey. This experience was more than just a tasting; it was a celebration of the artistry behind bourbon-making, a reminder of why certain moments in life deserve to be cherished. It was a journey through history, flavor, and passion, and by the end of it, I felt not just satisfied, but profoundly grateful for the opportunity to partake in something so extraordinary.


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Forman's Whiskey Tavern

10149 Riverside Drive
Toluca Lake, California 91602
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