Angel's Envy Cask Strength Bourbon Finished in Port Wine Barrels (2023 Edition)

Received a sample from a friend. Glass: Glencairn, rested 15 minutes. Color: Medium-dark amber. Nose: Honey, apple, and other fruit. Palate: The most prominent notes are baking spice, with clove and oak, and a hint of cinnamon. Finish: Long duration with medium heat. Splash: No new flavors emerge. Overall: 7.5/10 - Without knowing the price, this is an above-average bourbon with some age and proof. At MSRP (or higher), I wouldn't purchase it, but I'm pleased to have had the opportunity to taste it. That said, it would likely perform well in a cocktail, if one were inclined to use such a pricey bottle for that purpose.

The best of its kind I've ever had. The port is there, but it is more subtle than the proofed-down version. All of the edges are rounded off. The port has a bit of a dark berry, like raspberry or blueberry, come through but not strong. More subtle. The same with the slight hint of a dark bitter chocolate. The mouthfeel is buttery and wonderful. There's also caramel and a little bit of nut.

Received this as a present and was hesitant to open it, as the standard version is just adequate to me, and this one is pricey. I finished the bottle, immediately desired another, and would confidently purchase it again. It ranks among my top 5 choices. The flavor is rich, and the cask strength is not overwhelming. Suitable for sipping neat or with a small ice cube. I typically favor Michter's and Wild Turkey products.

This has some peppermint at the start that transitions into a syrupy sweetness on the finish, which lingers for a long time. There are also some typical bourbon flavors like caramel, vanilla, and oak, but they are less noticeable. The port cask finish likely accounts for the rich, full sweetness.

Oak, green apple, and black pepper. I find it bitter, but in a pleasing way. A delicious and warming medicinal dryness lingers at the end. The port cask influence imparts a wonderful herbal complexity. This is my third year experiencing AECS, and it's my second favorite. The 2021 expression is hard to surpass.

My initial tasting of AE Cask Strength, and I'm quite pleased with it. It's high in proof for the AE brand but not generally. It smells of spice. The finish is very smooth for me.