There's no doubt that we love trying new spirits. But, lets face it, after awhile when you taste bottle after bottle, sometimes the true expression and spirit of the liquid can get lost in translation. On the other hand, when soething like this bottle shows up at mail call, you immeditely take notice and can't wait to share it with every bourbon enthusiast you know. And that's just what we did!
This is Penelope Havana Straight Bourbon Finished Whiskey (Batch 1), a 4 year bourbon finished for twelve months in Caribbean rum casks and then an additional finishing of one month in farm-sourced maple syrup barrels. The outcome? Deliciousness to the extreme! The mash bill is 74% Corn, 7% Rye, 16% Wheat and 3% Malted Barley, creating a viscous golden-brown liquid that has aromas leaping from the glass. Homemade oatmeal banana cookies, maple candy, and fresh-baked Amish friendship bread on the nose at first whiff. This bottle takes you down so many twists and turns like the Cuban streets that share its namesake. Light oak, pie crust, Wet Nuts ice cream topping and vanilla round out this sweet finish and we appropriately call this "dessert in a glass".
Havana is the latest release in the Cooper Series of bottles released by Penelope. The Cooper Series marries Penelope bourbon with unique finishing casks from around the world, creating uber-inviting and creating expressions that both enthusiasts and collectors seek.
Literally every person we have shared this bottle with (and that's been a LOT) have all concluded that this is one of the most unique pours they have tasted in a very long time. Our biggest regret is not being able to find another bottle. It's just simply wonderful and would pair with anything from chocolate covered strawberries to Rice Krispie treats to your favorite cigar. Well done!
ABV: 46.5% (93 proof)
Distillery: Ross & Squibb (MGP)
Suggested retail price: $79.99
Drink The Bottles score: 96/100
