Bottles of Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon.
By ERICA MARTINEZ
What Is Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon And Why Is It So Expensive?

The Sasquatch of the bourbon world is Pappy Van Winkle. Obtaining a bottle is akin to winning one of Wonka's Golden Tickets because of how rare and desirable it is.

The distillery that makes Pappy, Buffalo Trace, suggests that bottles retail for between $70 and $300, but bottles are so rare that they are often resold for thousands of dollars.

Pappy Van Winkle is aged in oak barrels for at least 15 years, resulting in less bourbon to bottle. The limited number of bottles causes enthusiasts to clamor for the supply.

This craftsmanship attracts serious bourbon drinkers willing to shell out more money. Of course, the numerous awards that Pappy has won speak for themselves, too.

Pappy Van Winkle is barreled for 15, 20, or 23 years, with the oldest bottles selling for tens of thousands of dollars. The manufacturer's suggested retail price is about $300.

Whether or not the flavor is worth so much money is totally subjective. The irony is that many people who are able to get a bottle of Pappy never even open it.