Penelope 13 Year American Light Whiskey

Tried neat. On the nose, it seems hot with notes of cinnamon, oak, vanilla. It's sweet initially, like maple syrup, that quickly surprises you and turns into a hot burn and a strong Kentucky embrace. After a few more sips and the heat no longer dominates (or my tongue is numb from the 128.4 proof), it disperses into notes of caramel, toffee, vanilla, caramel, red hots, & candy apple. I will try it with a few drops of water and provide an update! Stay tuned.

Immediate caramel sweetness, hints of vanilla, unique touches of toasted coconut, cinnamon, and brown sugar, then the oak arrives adding some tannin, finally concluding with baking spice and mild oak, a medium to long finish that is effortless after the first sip. Fantastic whiskey, perhaps even one of my favorite Penelope releases. Very different from their four-grain bottlings.

131.2 proof Light copper color, resembling a single malt. Sweet alcoholic aroma. Sweetness on the initial taste, followed by a slight burn that subsides into notes of cinnamon, crème brûlée, and marshmallow, concluding with a very subtle dry, almost tart finish, akin to a Prosecco finish. Excellent Seagrams spirit!

Exceptionally flavorful and surprising, exhibiting a wide array of distinct spice notes. Wonderfully balanced and smooth, with honey, caramel, brown sugar, and well-integrated spice. The finish is long and pleasant.

The nose presents vanilla and alcohol. The palate is numbing, with corn and dessert flavors. The finish is long and sweet, with lingering heat.

I've now tried every Penelope variation. Excluding the Architect Builds, this is my preferred expression.