Description
Penelope Barrel Strength is the full-power version of a modern brand. was founded in 2018 by two lifelong friends, Mike and Danny. Today it is part of Luxco, the branded spirits arm of MGP. This bottling skips every shortcut that could thin it out.
The liquid is a blend of three straight bourbon mash bills, all distilled in Indiana. Together they add up to 82% corn, 8% wheat, 7% rye and 3% malted barley. That wheat gives the sweet corn a softer edge, while the rye adds a bit of bite. The bourbons rest for four to six years in new charred American oak. That time in wood builds the deep caramel and nutty notes you will taste in the glass.
Then comes the part that gives it its name. The whiskey is not chill filtered, and no water is added before bottling. You get it straight from the barrel, at full barrel proof. The exact proof moves a little from batch to batch, so check the label on your bottle.
Lift the glass and you will notice pecans first. Dried apricot and soft vanilla follow close behind. The first sip is rich with caramel and toffee. Leather and more pecan show up next, lifted by a bright hint of orange zest. The finish turns warm, with white pepper, cinnamon and brown sugar. Caramel lingers well after you swallow.
This bourbon has picked up plenty of medals. The Barrel Strength line earned Double Gold and a Best in Class Finalist spot at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. It won Double Platinum at the ASCOT Awards in 2024 and again in 2025. It also took Gold at the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards. Wine Enthusiast named it one of the best spirits of 2020.
Start by sipping it neat, slowly, so the heat settles. Then try it again with a few drops of water and see how the fruit and spice shift. Because it is so bold, this holds its own in an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan. It can also anchor a whiskey sour. For food, reach for smoked brisket, grilled steak or sharp cheddar. Pecan pie and dark chocolate are great sweet matches. Want to see the rest of the range? Explore more from and compare the styles side by side. Fans of rich, full-flavored bourbon will find a lot to love here.
