Hunting the White Whale: Pappy Van Winkle

Every hobby has that one elusive thing that everyone is on the look out for. In the spirits world the White Whale is anything from the Pappy Van Winkle bourbon offering. A bourbon (supposedly) like no other that is in limited supply is the pot of gold at the end of the imbibers rainbow. If you are into whiskey you know exactly what I am talking about. If not, Google "Where to buy Pappy Van Winkle" or ask your local liquor store if they can get you a bottle. Let me know how that goes.

The myth and legend of Pappy is documented all over the Internet. I won't go into detail here but for a complete history check out THIS site. Now offered by the Buffalo Trace distillery, Pappy is impossible to get a hold of. There are stories of people getting on waiting lists 10 years ago who still haven't made it to the top. Most stores get maybe one bottle of each vintage and most owners hang onto it or sell it their employees. Many stores sell it for the going market value which can be up to $3,000 or more for a bottle of the 23 year old reserve. Like I said, White Whale.

On Super Bowl Sunday I had a taste for a Bloody Mary and sent Luis off to the liquor store. He came back with what I needed but also with this:

Found for true retail cost this is a real treasure. Now do we drink it or do we sell it? I say bottoms up. Happy hunting