Description

Penelope Architect Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished With French Oak Staves (750ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 52%           Age: No Age Statement            Country: America

Penelope Bourbon was founded in 2018 by lifelong friends Mike Paladini and Danny Polise. The brand name is a heartfelt nod to Mike Paladini’s daughter, Penelope, born that same year. Their vision was to create a straight bourbon whiskey that everyone could appreciate and enjoy, embodying the daily joy of celebrating life’s pleasures. Penelope Bourbon sources its spirits from MGP Ingredients (Ross & Squibb Distillery) in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, a highly respected distillery known for producing quality bourbon. Penelope is known for its expertise in blending multiple bourbon mash bills (typically a four-grain blend) and its innovative approach to cask finishing. They actively collaborate with leading cooperages like Tonnellerie Radoux to push boundaries in flavor development, utilizing technologies like OakScan® for precise oak selection

This expression showcases Penelope Bourbon’s dedication to pushing boundaries by masterfully combining their signature four-grain bourbon with carefully selected French oak staves. The “Architect” series aims to build distinct flavour profiles, just as an architect designs new structures, resulting in a sophisticated and layered drinking experience. This bourbon is crafted from Penelope’s signature four-grain mash bill, typically comprising corn, wheat, rye, and malted barley, offering a balanced and complex base. After initial maturation (aged 4 to 5.5 years) in new charred American oak barrels, this bourbon undergoes a unique finishing process using two styles of French oak staves developed in collaboration with Tonnellerie Radoux, a prestigious French cooperage. These staves, classified via OakScan® for tannin content (Delicate Stave for low tannin, Intense Stave for medium tannin), impart elegant notes and a complex aromatic palette. Bottled at 52% alc/vol (104 Proof). It is non-chill filtered, preserving its rich flavour. Part of Penelope’s innovative Architect series, known for its unique oak stave finishes.

Our Tasting Notes

Penelope Architect delivers a sophisticated and layered drinking experience, balancing classic bourbon warmth with refined oak complexity and nuanced sweetness.

Nose: Expect sweet candied cream and floral notes with hints of crème brûlée. Aromas of toasted oak, vanilla pirouettes, berries and cream, and peach melba with cigar adding depth are often found.

Palate: Rich and smooth, offering waves of sweet vanilla and viscous cream. Flavors transition into notes of dark fruit, soft spice (cinnamon, ginger, cloves), and a touch of tannin. It builds through the sip, crescendoing with a blend of sweet and spicy notes.

Finish: Long and polished, with lingering notes of spice, dry oak, and a touch of citrus peel. Rich vanilla, sweet cream, and a pleasant warmth persist, leaving a satisfying depth. This bourbon is a remarkable achievement, offering a complex and engaging profile that beautifully integrates French oak’s influence.