Penelope Bourbon Unveils Unique Havana Cask-Finished Bourbon

Introduction

Penelope Bourbon, a rising star in the whiskey world, has recently launched its innovative cask-finished bourbon, Havana. Known for its commitment to quality and flavor innovation, the brand has every reason to celebrate with this latest release, which stands as a testament to their creative spirit.

The Concept Behind Havana

Havana represents a new chapter in Penelope Bourbon's cask-finished offerings, with an emphasis on intricate flavor layering. The creators decided to incorporate the flourishing popularity of maple into their recipe. By marrying Caribbean rum casks with maple syrup casks, they've redefined the traditional double cask method of bourbon aging. The rum casks bring forth notes of molasses and tropical sweetness, which are beautifully complemented by the richness of the maple syrup finish.

Flavor Profile

The bourbon begins with an enticing aroma of molasses and banana bread, finished with hints of rich maple syrup. Upon tasting, one can expect a delightful combination of robust caramel corn, charred oak, and candied pecans. The thrilling finish lingers with notes of vanilla, brown sugar, and a whisper of mellow tobacco and spice, offering a balanced sipping experience that appeals to both seasoned whiskey drinkers and those new to the bourbon scene.

Aging Process

Crafted with care, the base for Havana starts with Penelope's signature Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This bourbon is aged for four years with a mash bill comprising 74% corn, 7% rye, 16% wheat, and 3% malted barley. The unique aging process for Havana involves 12 months in Caribbean rum casks, followed by an additional month in specially repurposed maple syrup barrels, creating a richly complex flavor profile that truly sets it apart from conventional bourbons.

The Vision of Penelope Bourbon

Danny Polise, the founder and Master Blender of Penelope Bourbon, emphasizes that Havana is more than just another rum-finished bourbon. He describes it as a standout addition to their cask-finished collection. The carefully crafted blend showcases a perfect balance of savory notes with sweet, vibrant flavors and oak spices—qualities that reflect the spirit of innovation that defines Penelope Bourbon.

Michael Paladini, Vice President of Strategy for MGP Ingredients and co-founder of Penelope, stated that developing Havana has been a labor of love. Beyond just adding a new offering to their lineup, the team aimed to push the boundaries of flavor and provide a product that both fans and newcomers would enjoy.

Limited Availability

Released as part of the Penelope Cooper Series, Havana is a premium product with a limited run of just 4,500 cases. Each bottle is bottled at 93 proof (46.5% ABV) and is expected to retail at a minimum price of $79.99. Given its exquisite flavor profile and limited availability, it's certainly worth trying before it flies off the shelves.

The Penelope Legacy

Founded in 2018, Penelope Bourbon has quickly carved a niche for itself in the spirits industry, earning accolades for its innovative blends. The brand is named after founder Michael Paladini's daughter and is dedicated to creating unique bourbon and rye whiskey expressions characterized by their smoothness and rich flavor profiles.

In addition to its Four Grain Straight Bourbon, Penelope offers several other award-winning products including Barrel Strength and Toasted Bourbon, all of which have garnered over 40 industry awards. Just in 2024, they achieved Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Conclusion

With Havana, Penelope Bourbon continues to solidify its status as a top contender in the premium whiskey market. Their commitment to innovation and quality is evident in every sip, making this release an exciting addition to their impressive portfolio. For those interested, more information and a product locator can be found on their official website, penelopebourbon.com.

Whether you're an experienced bourbon lover or eager to discover new tastes, Havana promises a flavor journey worth embarking on. Don’t miss out on this unique offering from Penelope Bourbon, which highlights the art of cask finishing and showcases the brand's relentless pursuit of extraordinary flavors.