Penelope Barrel Strength Bourbon Whiskey 750 mL

Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength Whiskey

Description:

Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength is a bold and unfiltered expression from Penelope Distilling, delivering an uncut and full-bodied experience for true whiskey connoisseurs. As a barrel strength offering, this bourbon comes straight from the barrel without dilution, capturing the raw, intense flavors of the spirit at its natural proof. Known for their craftsmanship, Penelope brings the perfect balance of richness, depth, and complexity, creating a bourbon that is both unapologetically powerful and wonderfully nuanced.

Aged in carefully selected new American oak barrels, this expression showcases the deep, robust flavors that come from its time spent maturing in the barrel, with a characteristic oakiness, vanilla sweetness, and the signature spice of high-proof whiskey. It's an unrefined, true-to-form bourbon, designed for those who enjoy whiskey at its most unadulterated state.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: The nose of Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength is rich and inviting with an intensity that immediately captures attention. Bold aromas of caramelized sugar, vanilla, and honey greet you, followed by the deeper, spicier notes of oak, cinnamon, and black pepper. There's a subtle hint of toasted nuts and a touch of brown sugar, with the high proof offering a slightly boozy kick to the nose, intensifying the overall experience. The complexity builds with notes of dark fruit, like raisins and dried cherries, that round out the inviting bouquet.

• Palate: On the palate, the bourbon opens with an immediate rush of sweetness, including buttery caramel, brown sugar, and vanilla bean, which are followed by the deep spice of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. As the sip develops, the oak from the barrel asserts itself with a slightly smoky and charred wood flavor, providing an excellent contrast to the sweetness. The mouthfeel is bold and rich, with a full-bodied texture that coats the palate. There are nuances of dark chocolate, dried fruit, and a slight hint of baking spices, adding complexity and depth to the profile. Despite the high proof, the spirit remains incredibly balanced, with the heat giving way to a surprising smoothness.

• Finish: The finish is long and warming, with the alcohol bite slowly dissipating into a smooth, spicy aftertaste. Oak, charred vanilla, and brown sugar linger, while a gentle touch of dark chocolate and a whisper of cinnamon close out the experience, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.

Overall:

Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength is an exhilarating whiskey that showcases the raw and unapologetic side of bourbon. Its bold barrel strength nature delivers a high-intensity experience that is both complex and smooth, with the sweetness of bourbon balanced by robust spice and oak notes. This expression is perfect for whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate an unfiltered, high-proof whiskey with layers of flavor that can stand up to a variety of tasting methods, whether neat, with a splash of water, or on the rocks.

Its balance of sweetness, spice, and oakiness makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy intense and full-bodied bourbons with a bit of heat and plenty of character. It’s a whiskey that can be sipped slowly and savored or used as the base of a rich, flavorful cocktail. Either way, Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength will undoubtedly leave a memorable mark.

Pairing Recommendations:

• Food: This bourbon pairs wonderfully with hearty dishes such as grilled steaks, barbecue ribs, or a rich braised beef stew, where the smoky, spicy bourbon complements the rich flavors of the meat. Aged cheeses like gouda, cheddar, or blue cheese will also elevate the tasting experience, balancing the strength of the bourbon with their creamy and tangy profiles. For a more indulgent pairing, try it with dark chocolate desserts, caramel tarts, or a spiced fruitcake.

• Cigars: The high proof and bold flavors of Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength would be well-matched with a full-bodied cigar such as a Padron 1964 Anniversary or Arturo Fuente Hemingway. The intensity of the cigar’s spice and woodiness will resonate beautifully with the bourbon’s own complexity and heat.

Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength is a full-throttle whiskey that is a testament to the craftsmanship of Penelope Distilling. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey aficionado or just beginning your journey with barrel strength bourbons, this expression delivers a remarkable tasting experience that is both powerful and sophisticated.