Penelope Toasted Series Batch 24-301
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
50% ABV
$70
Website
We would like to thank Luxco for sending us samples to review.
What the Blender Says
Our Toasted Series is a testament to the power of serendipity. When we began to explore toasted finishes, we weren’t expecting each barrel to be so different — so we decided to embrace this variety of chars and toasts that make every bottle in our Toasted Series truly one-of-a-kind.
After full maturation in charred new American oak barrels, Penelope Bourbon is finished in a new, hand-toasted barrel. While it can be hard to predict the flavor profile of each bottle in our Toasted Series, the deep notes of vanilla imbued by the toasting process add another dimension to our signature flavor profile. Whether you’re into a Heavy Toast or Medium, our Toasted Series
truly offers something for everyone.
That’s the serendipity of Penelope.
Type & Proof: Straight Bourbon Whiskey | 100 Proof | Non Chill-Filtered | Aged 4 Years
Process: Straight bourbon whiskey finished in a new, freshly toasted barrel.
Toasted Barrel: Char 5 | Heavy Toast
Mash Bill: 74% Corn | 21% Rye | 5% Malted Barley
AROMA: Brown sugar and cinnamon breakfast pastry
BODY: Vanilla and graham cracker with hints of dried cherry fruit
FINISH: Savory roasted marshmallow finish and slight spice
What Gary Says
Nose: Vanilla, caramel, brown sugar, subtle cinnamon rolls, toasted marshmallow, cornbread and charred oak.
Palate: Vanilla wafers, honey, caramel, cinnamon, apples, cherries and oranges.
Finish: Moderate in length, syrupy with cinnamon, nutmeg and honey.
Comments: I do get the cinnamon roll note but not nearly to the extent as with Penelope Rio. Overall, this is a very nice pour. Nothing off-putting to me other than the price tag which seems high (thinking of another very well established bourbon brand that offers a ‘toasted barrel’ variety at slightly less proof but more age for a lower price). Now if you’re a whisk(e)y geek, finding batches with different toasting levels and comparing contrasting those would be different and unique (and not something you could do with the other brand) – so that may be worth a premium. A bit of water brings out more honey and graham cracker notes, which I do enjoy – although this is quite nice neat as well.