Penelope Wheated Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey 750ml

Penelope Wheated Four Grain Straight Bourbon

Description:

The Penelope Wheated Four Grain Straight Bourbon is an exceptional expression from Penelope Bourbon, known for its innovative approach to crafting high-quality bourbons. This unique offering is a four-grain bourbon, blending corn, rye, wheat, and barley to create a truly distinctive flavor profile. The inclusion of wheat in the mash bill replaces the traditional rye with a softer, sweeter grain, resulting in a smoother, more approachable bourbon. Aged for several years to develop complexity, this wheated bourbon has been carefully crafted to highlight the harmonious balance between sweetness, spice, and oak. With its rich, full-bodied character and velvety smooth finish, the Penelope Wheated Four Grain Bourbon is a celebration of both tradition and innovation.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: The bourbon opens with a welcoming and inviting aroma of honeyed vanilla, caramelized sugar, and a touch of oak spice. There’s a faint dried fruit note of raisin and apple, which adds a layer of complexity. The wheat component lends a soft, almost creamy texture to the nose, blending seamlessly with the baked goods scent of butter croissant and light cinnamon. Overall, the nose is warm, smooth, and indulgent, with subtle hints of fresh grains and oak.

• Palate: On the palate, the Penelope Wheated Four Grain Bourbon is full-bodied and smooth, with a well-balanced interplay of sweetness and spice. The wheat offers a soft, creamy mouthfeel, while the corn brings a natural sweetness that is reminiscent of buttered popcorn and caramel. The rye adds a light spice that tingles on the tongue but is subdued compared to traditional bourbons with a higher rye content. The barley provides a touch of malty sweetness that rounds out the flavor profile. Mid-palate, there’s a vanilla creaminess with hints of toasted oak, butterscotch, and light baking spice, creating a harmonious, smooth texture.

• Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering flavors of sweet vanilla, caramelized sugar, and a gentle oak spice. The wheat’s softness leaves a creamy sensation, while the light rye spice gives just enough warmth to provide a lasting, pleasant warmth that gradually fades with a hint of dried fruit and a soft toasty oak finish.

Overall:

The Penelope Wheated Four Grain Straight Bourbon is a beautifully crafted and approachable bourbon with a rich, smooth character. The four-grain blend enhances the complexity of the whiskey, while the wheat adds a layer of softness and sweetness that makes it more approachable for those who may prefer a less spicy profile. It offers a great balance between the sweetness of corn, the creamy texture of wheat, the spice of rye, and the malty undertones of barley. This bourbon is perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or as the base for an elevated cocktail.

Pairing Recommendations:

• Food: Pair this wheated bourbon with grilled meats like ribeye steak or barbecue chicken to complement the richness of the bourbon. It also goes well with aged cheeses like gouda or brie, where the creamy, sweet flavors of the bourbon marry with the creamy textures of the cheese. For dessert, pecan pie, bourbon-soaked bread pudding, or chocolate truffles would be ideal pairings.

• Cigars: Enjoy this bourbon with a medium-bodied cigar like the Padron 4000 or a Rocky Patel Vintage, as the smoothness of the whiskey will enhance the flavors of the cigar, while the subtle spice in both the bourbon and cigar will create a well-balanced experience.

Aging Potential:

While this bourbon is crafted for immediate enjoyment, it has the potential to continue evolving in the bottle over several years, becoming even more complex and refined with time. Its balanced sweetness and spice profile will continue to develop, and those who prefer a more mellow and well-rounded bourbon may find that it softens beautifully with age.

The Penelope Wheated Four Grain Straight Bourbon is a standout in the world of bourbon, showcasing the careful craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. Its four-grain blend offers a smooth, complex character that is both approachable and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for both bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers to the category. Whether sipped neat or in a cocktail, this wheated bourbon is sure to leave a lasting impression with its rich flavor profile and silky smooth finish.