Military Bourbon Review: Penelope Toasted Barrel Strength

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History – Penelope Toasted Barrel Strength. Everyone is beginning to learn about Penelope and what they are doing in the bourbon space. Not only are they becoming a recognized name and competitor with their line ups in the market but they are also hitting it with an approach that is original and makes them stand out in the crowd. They are taking a more classical trajectory to their image by pushing labels, shapes and flavors that would be accepted in more wines rather than bourbons. With this bottle specifically they are releasing a toasted barrel. Competing against others in the space in which many toasted barrel series some deem as allocated. In this case it comes at a barrel strength and toasted which is different from others and seeks out lovers of a higher proof bourbon while blending the taste profile of a very smokey toasted barrel flavor. As stated on their site “Penelope Bourbon Toasted Series explores new and unique expressions of our signature four grain straight bourbon whiskey. After full maturation in charred new American oak barrels, we finish Penelope Bourbon™ Small Batch Barrel Strength in a new, freshly toasted barrel.” – Penelopebourbon.com

Lets dig in!

Value – I think this is a little high in price but for a barrel strength and toasted barrel. From a company on the rise I would expect MSRP to be a little lower.

Appearance – Medium Mahogany with a beautiful bottle that comes as a staple for Penelope Bourbon. The wine shape, branded P and flowers are what make this product stand out above others when you are scanning your local store shelves.

Nose – Raisin, pear, leather, chocolate with strong vanilla.

Palate – Black pepper, cinnamon and honey all at once. This bourbon has so much depth with these flavors. It pours the honey onto the tongue along with having a rich and balanced flavor profile. The smokiness of the toasted barrel is definitely there. It’s thick and bursting with flavor.

Finish – Heavy oak on the finish with a lingering heat of 10 seconds. “Wow” what a finish this has it keeps the flavor locked inside of the mouth. There are consistent reminders of Oak that tease you and leave a wanting for another sip. This really rounds out the bourbon for a solid pour.

Summary – This bourbon surprises me on one hand and on another leaves me with an expectation that I had all along. After spotting this in store I knew what you get when you buy a Penelope barrel strength. You get a well rounded bourbon that holds complexity with its blends but also leaves you a little bit of wanting more. Now if you add the toasted barrel into this mix then that little bit that you wanted more starts to show its face. All I can say after this pour is “Whoa What was that”? Penelope has stepped its game up.

Uniqueness – 1-10 – 7

Appearance- 1-10 – 10

Nose- 1-20 – 16

Palate- 1-20 – 17

Finish- 1-20 – 20

Value- 1-20 – 15

8.5

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