The Basics:

Penelope Distillery

94 proof - NCF

Four Grain Bourbon finished in French Grenache Rosé wine casks

Aged 2 - 3 years

$65 MSRP

Nose:

Strawberries, cream cheese, vanilla, almond extract, rye spice, and birthday cake

Frosted animal crackers 

Palate:

Graham crackers, marshmallows, vanilla frosting, vanilla cake, cinnamon and black pepper spices, caramel

Strawberry cheesecake with a graham cracker crust

Finish:

Medium-short finish 

Slight effervescent quality, rosé shines here, drying, subtle oak and white grape notes 

Final Thoughts:

Generally speaking, I am not the biggest fan of Rosé or wine finished whiskey. Rosé wine can be overly sweet, while many wine finished whiskies overpower the underlying spirit. The nose begins with a strong aroma of vanilla frosting and cake, which is balanced against the cinnamon spice on the palate. Neither one of these overpowers the other, which allows for a nice strawberry cheesecake note to shine through. While I wish the finish hung around a little while longer, Penelope does a great job of balancing the two elements. Overall, this is an enjoyable pour, especially for people who don’t normally reach for a wine finished bourbon.