Frequently Asked Questions
Unleash the vibrant spirit of Brazil with Penelope Rio Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a masterful addition to Penelope Bourbon's Cooper Series. This limited-release bourbon combines a four-grain mash bill—featuring 74% corn, 16% wheat, 7% rye, and 3% malted barley—with an innovative double-cask aging process in American honey barrels and Brazilian Amburana wood. Bottled at 98 proof, Penelope Rio radiates a rich and sweet profile with tasting notes of honey, cinnamon, gingerbread, and baking spices, balanced by hints of earthiness, tobacco, and a dessert-like finish. Whether you're savoring it neat or sharing it as a standout centerpiece for any gathering, this ‚Äúcarnival in a bottle‚Äù offers a unique sensory experience that marries sweetness with surprising depth. A true celebration in every sip.
Process & Profile
Penelope Rio is a meticulously crafted four-grain straight bourbon featuring a blend of 74% corn, 16% wheat, 7% rye, and 3% malted barley. Aged for 4 to 6 years, this bourbon undergoes a two-step finishing process. First, it rests in American honey barrels, infusing a natural sweetness, before transitioning to Amburana barrels from Brazil, known for their warm, spicy character. Non-chill filtered and bottled at 98 proof (49% ABV), Rio showcases an exceptional balance of richness and depth while staying true to its craft bourbon heritage.Tasting Notes
- Aroma: Opens with the enticing sweetness of honey, intertwined with the cozy, warm scent of cinnamon rolls.
- Palate: The flavor journey begins with notes of gingerbread, honey nectar, and baking spices, creating a rich, dessert-like complexity. A touch of nutty baklava and hints of vanilla add to the depth.
- Finish: Ends with a long, savory finish marked by delicate hints of roasted malt, sweet honey, and raw cinnamon, leaving a lingering warmth that captivates the senses.
What Makes It Special
Penelope Rio is celebrated for its signature double cask finishing, which seamlessly blends the sweet, floral essence of American honey barrels with the bold spiciness of Brazilian Amburana oak. This innovative pairing creates a refined flavor profile that is both approachable for newcomers and compelling for seasoned bourbon enthusiasts. Its limited release and award-winning accolades, including a Double Gold at the SIP Awards, make it a must-have for collectors and connoisseurs alike.How to Enjoy
- Neat: Let the intricate flavors unfold slowly at room temperature.
- On the Rocks: A single ice cube can mellow the spices, enhancing the honey and cinnamon notes for a smoother sip.
- Cocktails: Elevate classic bourbon cocktails, such as an Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour, by adding Penelope Rio for a rich and flavorful twist.
- Food Pairing: Its dessert-like qualities pair wonderfully with spiced cakes, roasted nuts, or creamy desserts like crème brûlée.
A Limited-Edition Celebration
Penelope Rio is not only a bourbon; it's a journey that captures the joyous essence of Brazil in every sip. With limited allocations and a unique finishing process, it stands as a testament to Penelope Bourbon's commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. Whether shared in celebratory moments or savored quietly, it's a bourbon experience that's truly one of a kind.Frequently Asked Questions
What is unique about Penelope Rio Straight Bourbon Whiskey?
Penelope Rio is renowned for its double cask finish, starting in American honey barrels and concluding in Brazilian Amburana oak casks. This combination creates a rich, sweet, and spice-forward flavor profile, often compared to a "carnival in a bottle".
What are the tasting notes of Penelope Rio?
The bourbon boasts an inviting aroma of sweet honey with hints of cinnamon rolls. On the palate, you'll enjoy flavors of gingerbread, honey nectar, baking spices, and a playful mix of sweetness and spice. The finish is long, with lingering notes of honey and subtle spice.
What is the proof and mash bill of Penelope Rio?
Penelope Rio is bottled at 98 proof and features a four-grain mash bill: 74% corn, 16% wheat, 7% rye, and 3% malted barley. This creates a balanced profile, blending sweet and spicy elements.
How is Penelope Rio best enjoyed?
This bourbon shines whether sipped neat, with a splash of water, or as the base for a premium cocktail. Its flavor complexity makes it perfect for both sipping and mixing into simple yet refined whiskey cocktails like a maple old-fashioned.
Is Penelope Rio a limited-edition release?
Yes, Penelope Rio is part of the Cooper Series and is released in limited quantities. For example, the 2025 batch included approximately 51,000 bottles, making it a sought-after bourbon for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
What makes the aging process of Penelope Rio special?
The whiskey is aged at least four years in American honey barrels, followed by further maturation in Brazilian Amburana oak barrels. This double-barrel aging imparts layers of sweetness, baking spice, and exotic complexity.
Where is Penelope Rio produced?
Penelope Rio is crafted at the Ross & Squibb Distillery (MGP) in Indiana, USA, and represents the meticulous blending and finishing innovation Penelope Bourbon is known for.
What is the best way to describe the flavor of Penelope Rio?
Penelope Rio combines dessert-like sweetness with spice. Expect notes of honeycomb, cinnamon frosting, cornbread, baking spices, and a hint of toasted oak, making it both rich and complex.
Is Penelope Rio non-chill filtered?
Yes, Penelope Rio is non-chill filtered, preserving more of the bourbon's natural flavors and mouthfeel for a fuller taste experience.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.