Penelope Rio Double Cask Finish Straight Bourbon Whiskey is an extraordinary expression that brings the vibrant spirit of Brazil to the world of American bourbon. A standout in Penelope's innovative Cooper Series, this 98-proof, non-chill-filtered bourbon features a unique double cask finish in American honey barrels and Brazilian Amburana oak, creating a captivating symphony of flavors. With a four-grain mash bill of 74% corn, 16% wheat, 7% rye, and 3% malted barley, it delivers a rich and complex tasting experience. The nose greets you with the sweet scent of honey and cinnamon rolls, while the palate unfolds layers of gingerbread, honey nectar, and baking spices, culminating in a long, savory finish with subtle notes of honeyed spice. Perfect for sipping neat or celebrating special moments, Penelope Rio is both a collector's gem and a testament to creative bourbon-making artistry.
Process & Profile
Penelope Rio begins with a four-grain mash bill (74% corn, 16% wheat, 7% rye, 3% malted barley) that forms the foundation of its signature flavor. This small-batch bourbon is aged 4-6 years and undergoes a two-step finishing process that sets it apart. The first stage involves aging in American honey barrels, imparting sweetness, while the second stage uses Amburana barrels from Brazil, infusing the bourbon with warm, spicy, and earthy tones. Non-chill filtered to retain maximum flavor and texture, Penelope Rio is bottled at 98 proof for a balanced yet bold sip.
Tasting Notes
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Aroma: Sweet honey with enticing hints of cinnamon rolls.
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Palate: A symphony of flavors unfolds, featuring gingerbread, honey nectar, and baking spices, accented by a touch of chocolate and earthy undertones.
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Finish: The experience culminates in a long, savory finish with lingering notes of honey, cinnamon, and subtle spices, creating a memorable impression.
What Makes It Special
Penelope Rio is far from an ordinary bourbon. Its dual cask finishing technique combines the sweetness of American honey barrels with the exotic influence of Brazilian Amburana oak. This innovative marriage of flavor creates a bourbon reminiscent of a Brazilian carnival: dynamic, rich, and layered. The meticulous blending of small-batch barrels ensures a consistent and exquisite profile that has earned acclaim, including a Double Gold at the SIP Awards.
How to Enjoy
Penelope Rio is crafted to be versatile, showcasing its unique profile whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or as the star of a cocktail:
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Neat or On the Rocks: Enjoy the full complexity of the double-cask finish and its evolving flavors.
- *Manhattan*: Enhance the gingerbread and honey notes with sweet vermouth and bitters.
- *Bourbon Highball*: Highlight its aromatic sweetness by pairing it with soda water and a twist of lemon.
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Food Pairings: Pair with barbecue brisket, charcuterie, or vanilla-based desserts to amplify the bourbon's sweet and spicy characteristics.
Penelope Rio Double Cask Finish Straight Bourbon Whiskey is more than a spirit; it's an invitation to celebrate life with innovation, craftsmanship, and joy. Limited in quantity but expansive in flavor, it's a must-have for collectors and bourbon lovers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Penelope Rio Double Cask Finish Straight Bourbon Whiskey?
Penelope Rio is a premium straight bourbon whiskey from the Cooper Series, known for its innovative double-cask finishing process. It starts with a blend of three bourbon mash bills containing four grains (74% corn, 14% wheat, 9% rye, and 3% malted barley) and is aged in American honey barrels for four years before being finished in Brazilian Amburana barrels for two additional years.
What does Penelope Rio taste like?
Penelope Rio offers a rich and complex tasting experience. It features aromas of sweet honey and cinnamon rolls, followed by flavors of gingerbread, honey nectar, and sweet baking spices on the palate. A long and savory finish leaves hints of honey and spice.
What makes Penelope Rio unique?
Its double-cask finish combines the sweetness of honey barrels with the spicy depth of Brazilian Amburana wood, resulting in a layered flavor profile that balances sweet and spicy notes. This innovative approach brings vibrant, dessert-like qualities to the bourbon.
How should I enjoy Penelope Rio?
Penelope Rio can be enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to open up its flavors. While it shines on its own, it also serves as an excellent base for whiskey cocktails like a maple old fashioned or paper plane. Adding ice is less recommended as it may dilute the bourbon's rich complexity.
What is the proof and texture of Penelope Rio?
This bourbon is bottled at 98 proof and is non-chill filtered, preserving its full flavor and creating a smooth, slick mouthfeel.
What is the aging and finishing process of Penelope Rio?
The bourbon is aged for 4–6 years, during which it spends four years maturing in American honey barrels. It is then finished in Amburana barrels from Brazil for another two years, imparting its distinctive sweet and spicy character.
What is the best way to store Penelope Rio bourbon?
To maintain its quality, store the bottle upright in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations.
Is Penelope Rio part of a limited edition series?
Yes, Penelope Rio is part of the Cooper Series and is produced in small batches. Its limited production and unique cask-finishing process make it a sought-after collectible for bourbon enthusiasts.