Dustin Gandoff
Penelope Rio Combines Amburana and Honey Finishes
Penelope’s latest release, Rio, combines two popular finishing styles – honey and Brazilian amburana – to create an unexpectedly wonderful flavor combination that is sure to be a hit. Arguably the two hottest bourbon finishes right now, Penelope Bourbon has been developing Rio for two years and involved combining seven different whiskey blends together to make its unique flavor. Its release also follows the announcement of acquisition of Penelope Bouron for $105 million by MGP Ingredients.
Nose
The whiskey opens with a rich honey coated graham cracker scent that’s quickly followed by cinnamon and burnt orange rind. Sweet and cinnamon scents come out in full force, making it potent and nicely expressive.
Palate
The palate starts off with an unwavering honey sweetness that quickly combines with graham cracker creating the classic combination of Golden Graham cereal. There’s a slight tilt to Greek baklava thanks to a mild nuttiness, fresh dough and sugary syrup, and the amburana finish is ever quietly brewing below.
Finish
The amburana flavors come out in full splendor during the whiskey’s finish. Raw cinnamon stick combined with cream soda, roasted malt, and cigar box encapsulates everything that its finish is known for. It can be divisive, as it is strong and overpowering, so the addition of honey helps offset this and makes it much more palatable.
Overall
Penelope Rio is an inventive whiskey that uses two popular finishing styles with great success. Honey helps offset the potency of the amburana barrel finish, and these flavors work together to bring out the best in each other. There’s nothing quite like Rio available and its inventiveness cannot be overlooked.
Classification: Straight Bourbon Finished in Honey and Brazilian Amburana Barrels
Company: MGP
Distillery: MGP
Release Date: May 2023
Proof: 98
Age: NAS (Contains bourbon aged between 4-6 years per company website)
Mashbill: 75% Corn, 7% Rye, 15% Wheat, 3% Malted Barley
Color: Rusty Gold
MSRP: $90 (2023)
Ey sweetness that coats the tongue before transitioning to a symphony of warm spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. The Brazilian amburana finish adds an interesting dimension with hints of vanilla and toasted coconut.
The combination of honey and Brazilian amburana finishes in Penelope Rio is a game-changer for bourbon drinkers. The delightful mix of sweet and spicy flavors creates a unique and complex taste that is sure to please. I can’t wait to try it!
Ney flavor that gives way to spicier notes of clove and cinnamon. The amburana wood adds a unique depth and complexity, creating a smooth and well-rounded finish. This combination of sweet and spicy creates a truly memorable sip of whiskey.
“Penelope Rio is a standout bourbon that expertly blends honey and amburana finishes to create a uniquely delicious flavor. It’s impressive that the brand has been developing this blend for two years and the result is a rich and complex whiskey that is sure to please bourbon lovers. A must-try for those looking for something new and exciting in the world of bourbon.”