Penelope Private Select Barrel Strength Bourbon

The 3% barley is noticeable on the nose, contributing a dark, woody, varnished brown sugar note alongside apple, hay, and honey with a touch of rye. I anticipated this would be my favorite Penelope expression to date. The palate is reminiscent of other robust apple pie bourbons, such as some from E. Craig and Larceny barrel proof. A comparison to Dickel 13 year would be interesting. The malt influence largely fades, but the brown sugar and caramel persist with notes of leather, oak, and pepper. It's very well-balanced, with all components working harmoniously. The finish is smooth with pepper, oak, and cinnamon. I wouldn't rank it above EC or Larceny, but it's a pleasant variation offering additional backbone for Penelope. The 9-year age statement and 109 proof are welcome additions. It serves as a good alternative when a highly sought-after bottle is unavailable. Batch #23-202.

Rich notes of vanilla and caramel on the aroma. Quite sweet with no ethanol detected. Faint suggestions of charred, smoky wood. The taste is smooth and spicy, with vanilla flavors reappearing alongside the smokiness. A touch of cinnamon appears at the conclusion. The flavors have a great lingering quality. It's spicier than I typically prefer, but this is an excellent drink. I definitely endorse it.

This bottling, boasting 117 proof and comprised of four grains, was selected by Southern spirits. The aroma is gentle considering the strength. I detect a trace of corn and grain alongside a toasted caramel note. The taste begins with a touch of spice, then becomes smooth and sweet. The finish is quite long and pleasant.

This is Batch 11, at 116 proof. The aroma presents floral and vanilla notes. Sipped neat at room temperature, it's surprisingly mild for 116 proof. Flavors include oak, vanilla, caramel, and pepper. A light sting is felt on the lips and tongue. Adding a bourbon ice cube to chill it altered the character significantly, giving it an almost scotch-like quality with a smoky taste.

A very full palate with abundant complexity. The proof allows flavors to unfold, starting with fruit and finishing with caramel and vanilla notes. An outstanding pour.

This distillery pick offers floral, rich notes. It has a strong bite with a smooth, enduring finish, which is exactly what I prefer in a barrel-strength whisky. I need to buy another bottle.