Penelope Architect Build No. 3

The initial aroma has oak and vanilla. I know this might sound strange, but I detect a Sharpie marker scent from the French Oak. The palate is sweet vanilla cream, followed by wood and spice. Both the nose and taste don't evoke aged, seasoned wood. Instead, it's like visiting a lumber department at a home improvement store and chewing on a toothpick – a younger, cleaner wood profile. It concludes with that sweet vanilla, then fades to a flat woody note (similar to having chewed on a wooden toothpick for an extended period). It's not terrible, but I don't believe I'm a fan of bourbon with this much French Oak. However, if you enjoy that profile, you'll likely appreciate this one.

Aroma: Moist stone, toasted oak, slightly herbaceous, a hint of citrus Taste: Lightly charred oak, French toast, white grapes, faint orange Finish: Toasted oak, vanilla, lingering pecan pie aftertaste

I'm glad I revisited this. I didn't care for it initially. After trying it again a month later, it's now one of my top picks for 2022. Abundant Vanilla oak and baking spice. An excellent bourbon for the winter.

The aroma is pure ethanol; the taste is slightly better. Marshmallow and oak notes. The finish is long and dry. Not to my personal preference, but I can see why some might appreciate it.

Sweet and oaky with a hint of marshmallow. A little warmth appears mid-palate. The finish is somewhat dull. It concludes gradually.

The French Oak imparted a nice barrel/woody note to the finish. It had a slightly drying sensation at the end. A solid pour.