penelope havana
Exploring A Double Cask Masterpiece
This Whiskey Wednesday, we turn the spotlight to Penelope Havana, a captivating release from Penelope Bourbon’s acclaimed Cooper Series. With its inventive double cask finishing, Penelope Havana is a testament to the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering memorable experiences for bourbon aficionados.
The Mash Bill
The Foundation of Flavor
Penelope Havana is crafted from a thoughtfully balanced four-grain mash bill, blending 74% corn, 16% wheat, 7% rye, and 3% malted barley. This combination forms the backbone of the bourbon’s unique character, with the high corn content lending classic sweetness, wheat providing a velvety smoothness, rye introducing a gentle spice, and malted barley adding depth and complexity. After aging for four years, the bourbon embarks on a distinctive finishing journey: first, it spends 12 months in Caribbean rum barrels, absorbing tropical notes and a delicate sweetness. It then undergoes a final month in maple syrup barrels—these barrels previously housed Penelope bourbon before being used to age maple syrup, and are then repurposed for this finishing process. The result is a multi-layered spirit with both rum and maple influences enhancing the bourbon’s core profile.
The Proof
Striking the Perfect Balance
Penelope Havana is bottled at 93 proof (46.5% ABV), striking a harmonious balance between intensity and approachability. This proof level allows the nuanced flavors from the double cask finishing to shine while remaining inviting for both seasoned bourbon drinkers and those newer to the category.
Tasting Notes
Reviewers consistently highlight the seamless integration of maple sweetness, which enriches the bourbon without overwhelming its traditional notes.
Bottle Cost & Availability
Penelope Havana made its debut in January 2025 as a limited edition, with only 4,500 cases (about 27,000 bottles) released. The suggested retail price is $79.99 for a 750ml bottle. Due to its limited production, availability is restricted to select retailers and specialty liquor stores, so enthusiasts are encouraged to act quickly if they hope to secure a bottle.
Why Penelope Havana Deserves a Place in Your Collection
What sets Penelope Havana apart is its imaginative double cask finishing. By marrying the tropical, fruity sweetness of Caribbean rum barrels with the decadent, syrupy richness from maple barrels, Penelope has created a bourbon that is both layered and accessible. The result is a spirit that appeals to fans of cask-finished whiskies and collectors alike. Its scarcity and distinctive profile make it a compelling addition to any bourbon lineup.
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