Home
The Whiskey Taster’s Flavor Guide

Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year Review

Tasting Notes & Ratings

Expert Rating: 77.5 Ratings Key

Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year Photo

Distillery Tasting Notes

Made by Sazerac Company ~ Buffalo Trace Distillery

See a brilliant, amber-orange color. Smell luscious, complex toffee. Taste a round, supple entry, leading to a dry, expansive, medium body. Enjoy notes of caramel, nuts, and brown spices with a lengthy, enveloping finish. It’s an outrageously smooth and decadent bourbon.

Review This Whiskey

Details

Proof: 90.4
Alcohol by volume (ABV): 45.2%
Aged: 12 years
Retail (MSRP): $79.99

What whiskeys do YOU think have a similar taste profile as Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year? (Login to answer)

Click this button to find Bourbons or other whiskeys that might be similar in taste profile. Results below. Don't forget our Bourbon search engine where you can search by flavor profile.

Reviews by the People of Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year

The People have not posted a review for this whiskey. Be the first!
Review This Whiskey

Ratings Key

Ratings breakdown based on a 100 point scale.

  • 90-100 Exceptional
  • 80-89 Very Good
  • 70-79 Average
  • 60-69 Below Average
  • 50-60 Drain Pour
The Whiskey Taster’s Flavor Guide
What Does Bottled-in-Bond Mean as it Relates to Bourbon?

When shopping for spirits, it is difficult to know what is quality bourbon. One way to narrow the field is to look for the designation "Bottled-in-Bond" on the label. Unlike the typical w...Read More

Popular Cocktails for the Holidays

Many people choose to drink popular cocktails during the holidays as a way to relax, celebrate, or socialize with family and friends. It can be seen as a tradition or a way to enhance the festive spir...Read More

A Brief Review of Belle Meade Bourbon

This is my second tasting of Belle Meade Sour Mash Whiskey Straight Bourbon, and once again, I am not getting much on the nose. Maybe a mild rye spice, clove, black pepper, but that’s it. All of...Read More