Frequently Asked Questions
Penelope Private Select 9 Year Barrel Strength Bourbon is a meticulously crafted expression that celebrates the art of bourbon blending and aging. This premium four-grain straight bourbon boasts a mash bill of 74% corn, 20% rye, 1% wheat, and 5% malted barley, delivering a harmonious balance of flavors. Aged for over nine years in charred new American oak barrels, it offers an uncut, non-chill-filtered experience, capturing the authentic essence of high-proof bourbon at 101.2 proof. Its luxurious flavor profile features rich caramel, vanilla custard, and cherry on the nose, followed by layers of marshmallow, sweet cherry, and black pepper on the palate, rounding out with a finish of vanilla crème brûlée and light smoke. This limited annual release is perfect for collectors and connoisseurs seeking a bold, complex bourbon that exemplifies craftsmanship and quality.
Process & Profile
Penelope Private Select 9 Year Barrel Strength Bourbon is produced from expertly crafted aged barrels. Each bottle features a meticulously blended mash bill with 74% corn, 20% rye, 1% wheat, and 5% malted barley. Aged for nine years in charred American oak barrels (#4 staves, #2 heads) and bottled at an impressive 101.2 proof, this bourbon is uncut and non-chill-filtered, preserving its natural flavors and texture. The result is a bold, nuanced bourbon that reflects the art of careful barrel selection and blending.Tasting Notes
- Aroma: The nose is rich and inviting, with notes of caramel, vanilla custard, and cherry fruit.
- Palate: A luxurious combination of smooth caramel syrup, brown sugar, and subtle barrel char evolves into hints of butterscotch, crème brûlée, and sweet cherry, accompanied by a touch of black pepper.
- Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, highlighting vanilla crème brûlée, allspice, and a wisp of light smoke that lingers elegantly on the palate.
What Makes It Special
- Nine-Year Maturity: The extended aging process deepens the bourbon's flavor profile, offering a level of complexity rarely found in other releases.
- Four-Grain Mash Bill: The carefully balanced combination of grains provides a harmonious blend of sweetness, spice, and smoothness.
- Uncut, Non-Chill-Filtered: Preserving its robust flavor and authentic texture, the bourbon remains untouched by dilution or excessive processing.
- Collector's Release: As an annual, limited-edition offering, Penelope Private Select 9 Year stands out as a must-have for bourbon enthusiasts and collectors alike.
How to Enjoy
- Neat: Best appreciated neat to fully savor the complexity and richness of its flavors.
- On the Rocks: Add a single large ice cube to balance the proof while maintaining its bold character.
- Cocktails: Although versatile, the bourbon's elaborate profile shines brightest in simple, spirit-forward cocktails like a classic Old Fashioned.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the proof and alcohol by volume (ABV) of Penelope Private Select 9 Year Barrel Strength Bourbon?
This bourbon is bottled at barrel strength with a proof of 109, equivalent to 54.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) .
What makes the Penelope Private Select 9 Year Bourbon unique?
Each Private Select batch is an exclusive blend of three bourbon mash bills, all hand-selected for quality. The four-grain mash bill includes corn, wheat, rye, and malted barley, and the bourbon is uncut and non-chill filtered, retaining its robust and authentic flavor profile .
What flavors can I expect from this bourbon?
The flavor profile is rich and complex, with notes of caramel, butterscotch, crème brûlée, and dark fruit on the nose. On the palate, you'll find layers of sweet caramel, brown sugar, and hints of leather and orange zest. The finish is long and spicy with cinnamon, white pepper, and lingering caramel .
How long is this bourbon aged?
Penelope Private Select 9 Year Barrel Strength Bourbon is aged for 9 years, resulting in a deeper and more nuanced flavor compared to younger expressions .
What is the mash bill composition?
The bourbon is crafted from a four-grain mash bill comprising corn, wheat, rye, and malted barley. Each Private Select blend is customized to highlight different aspects of these grains .
Is this bourbon suitable for collectors or casual drinkers?
This release is designed to appeal to both collectors and enthusiasts. Its premium nature, extended aging, and nuanced flavors make it a standout for seasoned bourbon fans, while its balanced profile can also be enjoyed by those new to barrel-strength whiskeys .
Is the Penelope Private Select 9 Year Barrel Strength Bourbon part of a limited release?
Yes, this bourbon is released as part of Penelope's Private Select program, which features carefully curated batches made from hand-selected barrels. Each release is limited in quantity, which enhances its exclusivity .
How should I drink this bourbon?
You can enjoy it neat to savor its full complexity, or add a few drops of water to open up additional flavors. It also works well over ice for a smoother experience .
Where is the bourbon distilled?
Penelope Private Select 9 Year Barrel Strength Bourbon is distilled by MGP in Indiana and includes bourbon sourced from Kentucky, showcasing a blend of regional influences .
What is the MSRP for this bourbon?
The suggested retail price for a 750mL bottle of Penelope Private Select 9 Year Barrel Strength Bourbon is approximately $65 to $80, depending on the batch and release .
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