Angel's Envy Bourbon Finished in Tawny Port Wine Barrels (2020 Cellar Collection)

All I can say is wow! A friend had me blind taste one of 7 bottles I hadn't opened yet, not anticipating they would open this one. The other bottles were certainly not subpar, so I had no clue what this was. The aroma immediately impressed me, and I knew I was in for something remarkable. The palate continued to impress, and then the finish lingered extensively with a pleasant sweet conclusion. I have absolutely no criticisms of this pour. I was hesitant to purchase it but am so pleased I did. As I write this review, I'm still smacking my lips, and it continues to exceed my expectations. I will certainly be savoring this bottle!

Served neat, this presents a mild aroma of buttery bread, cinnamon, and apple, with no alcohol burn even when smelling closely. The palate offers mild corn and vanilla. Port sweetness finishes the sip and lingers lightly on the tongue. There's an initial burn that smooths out as it goes down. It's a very mild spirit, perfect for enjoying outdoors on a warm evening.

Intriguing, to say the least. The aroma is quite mild, and the palate is inconsistent. The finish exhibits a distinct non-alcoholic burn, perhaps akin to cinnamon? The Tawny finish significantly impacts the taste when consumed neat. Adding a cube transforms the experience, bringing the flavors into balance and making it much more palatable. It also softens the finish. Initially uncertain, but after adding ice, it became impressive.

A lot of grapes on the aroma, a result of the port finish. Hints of green apple and cranberry too. The fruitiness continues to the flavor, but less so, with some oily, vegetal notes joining in. The finish has a surprising kick, but not overwhelming, with more savory corn flavors and a touch of mint.

Nose: Vanilla accompanied by fruit trees in bloom and the fruit itself. Body: Cherry cola and birch bark. Finish: The cherry notes persist with some black pepper sensations on the tongue. This is absolutely fantastic! It reminds me of a particular Willett selection. I'm going to try to find this one. Stock and Barrel Knoxville

I blind-tested this against PVW 15, Four Gate Split Stave, and Old Fitz 14, and it tied for first place with PVW. In addition to rich, traditional bourbon flavors and complexity, there were no off-putting notes; I simply didn't dislike anything. It's a fantastic bourbon.