Old Rip Van Winkle 12 Year Bourbon 105 Proof 1988

105 proof. 12 years. Bottled 1988. Old Rip Van Winkle — a 12-year wheated bourbon from the Van Winkle family's independent era, bottled in 1988 from the Stitzel-Weller or early transition-era production. At 105 proof and 12 years, this is a mature, higher-proof Van Winkle expression from the period when Old Rip Van Winkle was establishing its identity as a premium aged wheated bourbon before the modern Pappy Van Winkle brand achieved its current collector status.

The 1988 bottling predates the mainstream bourbon revival by nearly a decade — a period when the Van Winkle family was quietly producing exceptional long-aged wheated bourbon with limited domestic recognition. At 12 years and 105 proof, this expression sits between the standard 10-year and the 15-year tier in the Van Winkle family's historical lineup.

Specs

• Producer: Old Rip Van Winkle
• Style: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Wheated
• Age: 12 years
• Proof: 105 (52.5% ABV)
• Bottled: 1988
• Size: 750ml

Browse all Van Winkle expressions and rare spirits at Wooden Cork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Old Rip Van Winkle 12 Year 1988 still available?

Yes — over 35 years from original bottling.