Penelope Barrel Strength Bourbon (Batch 11)

The color is somewhat pale, but visually appealing in its beautiful bottle. I was somewhat surprised; I was almost persuaded to buy it at a liquor store while on holiday but discovered it's a blend of MGP whiskey, likely mixed in New Jersey and then bottled in Kentucky. The aroma is sweet and fruity. The first sip offers a toasted note with a mild fennel bite, but then it turns sweet, and you experience the fruitiness from the aroma. The sweeter it becomes as it opens up. The finish is pleasant and mild for a barrel strength. There's almost too much complexity to fully appreciate among all the different grains involved.

Quick thoughts from the 2023 New Orleans Bourbon Festival: Subtle aroma. The palate has vanilla and peanuts, with a medium-long finish featuring spices.

Notes of caramel, cinnamon, and vanilla. It tastes a bit ordinary, with nothing particularly memorable. It’s smooth yet possesses a spicy kick. I can drink this, but I won’t actively seek it out.

Not to my liking. I generally prefer double oak, but I had never sampled a bourbon finished in rosé wine casks. I don't feel the finishing adds anything significant.

Loads of vanilla and sweetness, but the burn is substantial and justified. Exceptionally well-crafted and enjoyable, clearly barrel strength.

A full mouthfeel. It begins with a kick of spice before becoming mellow with sugary caramel and a touch of fruit. I'm wowed.