Penelope Architect Build No. 1

Nose: Oak and brown sugar. Palate: Tastes a bit young, but that's not necessarily bad here. I detect oak, vanilla, and some tobacco. It's solid. Finish: At 104 proof, it offered a bit of a warmth. It lingers on your tongue rather than providing that deep chest warmth you get from higher proofs. Overall: It's a respectable pour. For me, it doesn't quite match their batch 6 cask strength or their Texas select toasted barrel. This is a respectable pour. 3.6/5 stars. Glad I found a bottle.

Initially, ethanol is noticeable on the nose; it takes a moment to mellow and dissipate. Once settled, the aroma reveals ample vanilla and caramel with subtle oak undertones. The initial taste is smooth, followed by a pleasing black pepper finish and a leathery char. Adding ice tempers the peppery heat, making this a potentially deceptive offering given its higher proof. A prolonged lingering warmth contributes to its intensity and appeal. I endorse this selection!

The aroma consists of wheated notes with vanilla and spice. The taste is smooth and subtly sweet, featuring notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, with a very pleasing mouthfeel and good balance. The finish transitions nicely into spice that isn't too strong, especially for its proof. The initial impression is quite remarkable.

Nose: Butterscotch, oak, caramel. Palate: Mild barrel tannins, vanilla, caramel. Overall: The nose was considerably more impressive than the palate, and I was somewhat disappointed by the taste. Still a good spirit, but I wouldn't buy it again.

Pleasant butterscotch, vanilla, and caramel notes, but it drinks hotter than 104 proof with significant spice. The aroma is delightful with sweet caramel and acetone. The palate is nice but has a short finish and a strong warming sensation.

Nose: Tart cherry and caramel, very rich and sweet, with a good burst of vanilla. Taste: Warming oak with pleasant cherry and spice. Quite straightforward. Finish: Moderate, light finish with a touch of tannic bitterness.