Description
Penelope Rio is a straight bourbon from the brand’s Cooper Series. That series sends Penelope’s whiskey on a tour of the world, and this stop is Brazil. It starts with a four-grain mash bill of 74% corn, 16% wheat, 7% rye and 3% malted barley. It is bottled at 98 proof, which is 49% ABV.
The twist comes after aging. The bourbon gets a double cask finish, first in American honey barrels and then in Amburana. Amburana is a Brazilian hardwood, and it gives the whiskey its warm spice. It makes a fun detour if you mostly drink classic .
The nose opens with sweet honey and a playful cinnamon roll note. The body is rich, with gingerbread, honey nectar and sweet baking spice. The finish runs long and savory, with soft honey and spice. Fred Minnick sums it up as dessert sweetness with a nice baking spice on the way out.
Critics and judges have taken notice. Whisky Advocate gave an earlier Rio release 92 points. The brand reports a Double Gold in the category at the 2024 SIP Awards. Rio picked up an innovation award there too.
Penelope was founded in 2018, and Rio arrives in limited amounts each spring. Start with a neat pour and a few drops of water. Later, stir it into a rich Old Fashioned. Pair it with dark chocolate or a slice of pecan pie.
