Angel's Envy Cask Strength Bourbon Finished in Port Wine Barrels (2020 Edition)

I had the good fortune to compare the 2019 and 2020 releases side-by-side, both tasted neat in a glencairn glass. The aroma of the 2019 was rather muted, especially compared to the 2020. The darker fruit notes were present but required considerable effort to detect; I repeatedly returned to the glass thinking I was missing something, but honestly, it just seemed to lack presence. However, at one point, I did perceive a crème brûlée note. The 2020, on the other hand, offered a very fruit-forward aroma, with the wine finish being quite evident and inviting – no contest between the two. The palates were surprisingly distinct for me, contrary to my expectations. Despite the noticeable warmth from the alcohol content, the 2019 was significantly spicier than the 2020. The 2020 simply felt more complex. It began dry and tannic, but then citrus fruit notes emerged and provided a very nice balance. Regarding the finish, I detected the faintest hint of smoke in the 2019, but for the most part, it was a continuation of the palate. I didn't notice any distinct new notes on the finish of the 2020. Both were largely just a fairly extended continuation of their respective palates. Overall, I consider the 2019 a great pour on its own, but my rating might have been slightly reduced due to the direct comparison with the 2020. Everyone has unique preferences and viewpoints, but to me, the 2020 was the superior pour! I would rate the 2019 a 4 and the 2020 a 4.5.

I chose to hold off on reviewing this until some time had passed and I had consumed at least half the bottle. I'm very glad I made that decision. Initially, the spirit's heat masked its lovely intricacies. Eight months later, the full potential of this beautiful liquid has been realized, at least for me. Let's begin with the potent yet engaging nose. Straight from the bottle, I detected so much leather I thought I was smelling a designer coat, with baking spices and red fruit taking a backseat. After adding four drops, the leather subsided slightly, allowing more aromas to emerge: sweetened grains/nuts, the aforementioned spices, cherries, oak, and vanilla. The tasting experience was wonderful and complex. Without water, I primarily got char and cherry. After the drops, it opened up similarly to the aroma. Additional notes reminiscent of chocolate candy appeared, along with a touch of orange peel. The oily, mouth-coating sensation was quite pleasant and contributed to the long, slightly dry finish. I always enjoyed the standard and rye versions of this spirit, but this elevated it to another level. I now understand the high price and fancy packaging. It's a fine example of why distinctions exist among the many spirits we encounter.

Aroma - dark cherry, oak, faint chocolate, redwood, dark plums Taste - Incredibly intense flavors. Cedar and oak merge with dark salted caramel, deep dark cherries, dark chocolate, baking spices, and over ten minutes in the glass, the flavors continue to develop. Hints of apricot and pretzels appear later. It provides significant warmth and comfort. It's almost challenging to isolate individual notes, not because they are subdued, but quite the opposite; they are overwhelmingly potent and dense. It's quite remarkable. A few drops of water brought out the cherry and softened it, but I preferred the unadulterated impact. Finish - Extremely long duration. Measured in minutes. Spice, caramel, and an almost cake batter sweetness linger, with significant wood presence. Cherries and cedar remain noticeable, now with faint hints of mint tingling. This was exceptional for my palate.

My knowledge of whiskey is limited. I'm more inclined towards beer. However, I've been exploring whiskey more over the last couple of years. A friend suggested AE to me, and I found this port-finished version. I enjoy port, so I figured it would be good. It was. Extremely easy to drink neat. Not overly intense. Sweet on the nose. Now, I'll just start making things up, so I'll stop here. Still, a great whiskey, I would recommend it and would DEFINITELY purchase it again.

Bottle 4484, 120.4 proof Reddish-copper color Aroma of fig, cinnamon, and a hint of port Slightly sweet with corn and raisin at the forefront, some peanut. Then vanilla and honey, baking spices, a long finish that is dry and peppery with some sweet port emerging. Very well-balanced. After a few moments, a slight orange zest appears to finish it off.

I found this bottling to be a thicker, richer rendition of the standard offering. It seemed a bit reserved initially but opened up as it sat in the glass. Port, oak, cinnamon, molasses, leather, light caramel, and vanilla all intermingled. The high proof added body but was not overpowering, making it very drinkable neat.