Angel's Envy Cask Strength Bourbon Finished in Port Wine Barrels (2017 Edition)

I noticed the last bits from the bottle were poured, likely benefiting from oxidation. The appearance is striking, a deep amber hue suggesting its port cask aging. The aroma features roasted caramel, char, and fresh oak, with less alcohol sharpness than anticipated. The taste is similarly smooth for its alcohol content. It possesses a pleasant sweetness, as expected from this product. A delightful floral note, usually not my preference, works well here. It's well-rounded with balanced baking spices that remain on the palate. The finish includes warmth and cacao nibs. While not the most intricate, it's a minor point. This offers something for both newcomers exploring new tastes and experienced drinkers. It could serve as an aperitif, dessert drink, nightcap, or be enjoyed on its own, even with a cigar. Rated 4 stars, with potential for 5. It's a splurge to have regularly, but tempting. Dated 4/23/18.

The aroma is peppery with dominant oak and port, plus wisps of toffee and cinnamon. The taste is dry and robust with rye spice and a dry port sweetness, complemented by cinnamon, vanilla, and toffee in the background. It finishes with a medium, warming sensation of rye and cinnamon that eventually yields to subtle vanilla and toffee.

This spirit drinks very smoothly overall, exhibiting notes of caramel and vanilla from start to finish. The higher proof accentuates these sweeter notes and creates a lingering spicy/woody aroma that fills your senses. While the proof doesn't alter the expected pour, it does add a pleasant warmth and a burst of the anticipated flavors.

Excellent. A nice rye spice comes through initially. I prefer the 2020 edition because it has a better port balance. This one doesn't have as much body as the 2020, leaning more towards the whiskey notes than the port.

Sweet scents on the smell. It's almost deceptive on the tongue. You can certainly taste the spice from the barrels. The end dissolves from your mouth quite rapidly.

Super tasty, though the flavors are hard to discern. It has a great taste. This is the standard version, not the port wine.