Frequently Asked Questions
Unleash the full-bodied power of Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength, a remarkable straight bourbon crafted from a proprietary blend of three MGP-sourced mash bills, featuring four grains (corn, wheat, rye, and malted barley). Aged 4-6 years in new American oak barrels with #4 char staves, this non-chill-filtered bourbon is bottled uncut at cask strength for an authentic, robust flavor. The nose entices with rich notes of caramel, crème brûlée, and dried apricot, while the palate bursts with brown sugar, butterscotch, and a subtle touch of barrel char. A smooth, lingering finish of white pepper and cinnamon enhances its complexity. Recognized with prestigious awards like the Double Gold from the San Francisco World Spirits Awards, this bourbon delivers a pure, bold experience that whiskey enthusiasts crave.
Process & Profile
Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength is crafted for bourbon enthusiasts who appreciate the purest expression of whiskey. This small-batch bourbon features a proprietary four-grain mash bill and is blended from three high-quality bourbon recipes sourced from MGP. Aged for 4-6 years in new American oak barrels with #4 charred staves and #2 charred heads, the whiskey is bottled uncut and non-chill-filtered, ensuring a bold and unaltered flavor. At a robust proof ranging between 112 to 116, each batch delivers a powerful and complex tasting experience that highlights Penelope's signature balanced profile.Tasting Notes
- Aroma: Rich and inviting, with notes of caramel, maple syrup, dried apricot, vanilla, and hints of pecans.
- Forward Notes: Smooth layers of caramel syrup, brown sugar, butterscotch, and subtle barrel char, paired with a touch of crème brûlée.
- Body: A full-bodied experience featuring sweet toffee, leather, nuts like pecans, and a burst of orange zest.
- Finish: Lingering warmth with hints of white pepper, cinnamon, and brown sugar, rounded out by a soft spice and caramel sweetness.
What Makes It Special
Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength stands out as an uncut and non-chill-filtered spirit designed for purists. The four-grain mash bill, combining corn, wheat, rye, and malted barley, achieves a harmonious balance of sweetness, spice, and smoothness. Produced in small batches and aged in hand-selected barrels, this bourbon has earned accolades like double gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Its high proof elevates its intensity, offering a bourbon that is both approachable for new fans and sophisticated for seasoned drinkers.How to Enjoy
Penelope Barrel Strength can be savored in multiple ways:- Neat: Best enjoyed in a Glencairn glass to fully experience its aromatic bouquet and multi-layered flavors.
- On the Rocks: Adding ice can mellow the high proof, accentuating its sweeter undertones.
- In Cocktails: Perfect for bold bourbon-based classics like a Barrel Strength Manhattan. Combine with Italian sweet vermouth and bitters for a rich and elevated cocktail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength unique?
Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength is uncut and non-chill filtered, offering bourbon in its purest form. It is crafted by blending three bourbon mash bills containing four grains: corn, wheat, rye, and malted barley. Aged in new American oak barrels for 4 to 6 years, it delivers intense, robust flavors with high proof, typically ranging from 112 to 116 (56-58% ABV).
What are the key tasting notes for Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength?
This bourbon offers a complex flavor profile: - **Aroma:** Notes of pecans, dried apricots, vanilla, and sweet caramel. - **Palate:** Flavors of caramel syrup, brown sugar, barrel char, and butterscotch, with hints of toffee, leather, and citrus zest. - **Finish:** Spicy notes of white pepper and cinnamon with lingering caramel sweetness.
What is the mash bill composition of Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength?
The mash bill includes approximately 80% corn, 7-8% wheat, 7% rye, and 3-6% malted barley. This balanced combination adds complexity to the flavor profile.
Is Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength chill-filtered?
No, it is non-chill filtered, which helps retain more natural esters and congeners, contributing to a richer body and depth of flavor.
How should I enjoy Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength?
This bourbon is versatile and can be enjoyed: - **Neat:** To fully appreciate its robust and complex flavors. - **With a Splash of Water:** Enhances aromas and softens the high proof for a smoother experience. - **On the Rocks:** Chilling can mellow the intense flavors while maintaining its character.
What awards has Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength won?
It has won multiple accolades, including a Double Gold Medal in 2020 and Gold Medals in 2022 and 2023 at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Does the flavor profile vary between batches?
Yes, each batch offers a unique tasting experience as slight variations in mash bill proportions and barrel selection contribute to distinct nuances in flavor and proof.
Where is Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength produced?
The bourbon is distilled at the Ross & Squibb Distillery (formerly MGP) in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, and blended and bottled under the supervision of the Penelope team.
How long can I store a bottle of Penelope Bourbon Barrel Strength?
Once bottled, the aging stops, so it can be stored indefinitely. However, if opened, it is recommended to keep the cap tightly sealed to preserve its flavor and prevent evaporation.
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