I’ve enjoyed some Penelope bourbons over the years, though I know they can be hit or miss with some folks. The only one I’d owned until now was a Marshmallow Toasted expression—syrupy sweet and fun at first, but it gradually lost its appeal and started gathering dust on my shelf. So when I spotted a bottle of Penelope Four Grain Barrel Strength for just under my cheapskate line of $40 (it usually runs closer to $48), I figured it was worth the gamble. The reviews I’d read were promising, and the price sealed the deal.
A Little Background
Penelope Bourbon is a relatively young brand, founded in 2018 by Mike Paladini and his friend Danny Polise. Named after Paladini’s newborn daughter, Penelope built its reputation by sourcing well-aged MGP bourbon from Indiana and blending with precision rather than producing in-house. Their early success came from the Four Grain lineup, which combines corn, wheat, rye, and malted barley—bringing balance, complexity, and versatility. Fans have praised the brand’s approachable flavor profile and creative finishing series, while critics have sometimes found the toasted line a bit too sweet.
Tasting Notes
On first pour, the barrel strength version more than lives up to the praise. It has a rich copper hue that hints at depth. The nose opens with buttery toffee, brown sugar, caramel, and warm baking spice, all inviting and well-integrated. The palate is even more rewarding—the spice takes the lead, followed by waves of creamy caramel, vanilla, toffee, and light oak that give it both sweetness and structure.
The finish isn’t as long as I’d like, but it holds on nicely with lingering toffee and spice. Overall, it’s a pour that feels cohesive, flavorful, and mature beyond its years.
Final Score: 78.2
That puts this one solidly in my “above average” category. Even at its regular price, it’s worth adding to your shelf—but if you catch it on sale, grab a bottle (or two) without hesitation.
Copyright © 2025 Doug DeBolt.
