Angels Envy Bourbon Finshed in Port Wine Barrels
A Spirited Journey Through Angel's Envy: The Bourbon with a Vinous Twist!
Hello, fellow bourbon adventurers! Grab your best snifter (or a clean mason jar—no judgment here), and let I regale you with the tale of my latest or something I had for some time and just doing a review on this liquid escapade. This isn't just any bourbon, folks. It’s like your regular high school sweetheart who went off to Europe for a semester and came back with a fancy accent and an affinity for cheese that smells like feet. Only, in this case, that "semester abroad" was spent lounging in lush port wine barrels. Yes, PORT wine barrels. You heard that right!
History: A Taste of the Beginnings
Angel's Envy Distillery, based in Louisville, Kentucky, was born from the creative vision of the late master distiller Lincoln Henderson, one of the original pioneers of premium bourbon and whisky. Founded in 2011 by Lincoln alongside his son Wes, the distillery was a culmination of Lincoln’s lifetime experience in the spirits industry, aiming to push the boundaries of bourbon innovation. AE is particularly noted for its signature expression, a Kentucky Straight Bourbon finished in port wine barrels, a unique twist that sets it apart in the bourbon landscape. Today, the distillery remains a family-operated affair, committed to crafting some of the finest, most distinctively finished whiskeys.
The First Date: Unboxing the Angel
Opening the Angel’s Envy bottle is an event in itself. The bottle looks like it's straight out of an angel's liquor cabinet—sleek, with wings etched into the back that almost flutter when you give it a good squint. There’s a certain reverence required when pulling out that cork like you're opening a treasure chest or cracking into your grandmother’s recipe book. Expectations? Sky-high. Fear of disappointment? Ditto.
The Meet-Cute: Aroma Encounter
Nosing this bourbon is like sticking your nose into a dramatic love story between Mr. Corn and Ms. Portuguese Port Wine. At first whiff, you get that typical bourbon sweetness, but then—bam!—there's this fruity, wine-soaked plot twist that swirls around your nostrils like it’s auditioning for "Dancing with the Stars." Your typical notes of vanilla and caramel, but with a slight hint of "I've been hanging out in a wine barrel, deal with it," make for a memorable introduction.
The First Sip: Flavor Town
Now, taking the first sip of Angel’s Envy is akin to going on a blind date with someone who looked merely cute online but turned out to be hilariously brilliant and unexpectedly deep. There’s complexity here that makes you want to take it slow. It’s smooth with a capital ‘S’—like Sinatra crooning in your mouth. The port finish comes through, not overwhelmingly, but just enough to make its presence known, bringing along notes of raisin, a dash of toffee, and a sprinkle of holiday spice. If this bourbon were a person, it’d be the kind who reads poetry but can also change a tire.
The Finish: A Sweet Goodbye
The finish? Longer than the last minute of a workout. It lingers with a warmth that’s as comforting as a hug from an old friend. There’s a richness there, kind of like a gossip that spreads delightfully around the town (your mouth). And just when you think it’s over, there’s a small hint of that port reminding you, "I’m sophisticated; I’ve seen the world."
Amateur Verdict: Worth the Envy?
Absolutely, give it a try for the thrill of tasting a bourbon that's boldly stepped out of its comfort zone. Angel's Envy is the life of the party—full of intriguing tales, much like that friend who always captivates a crowd. Ready to make room on your shelf? If you're game for a bottle that subtly boasts, "I’m an angel with a dark side," then tuck it in between your pickle jar and aged college textbooks. Though it might occasionally resemble a typical bourbon, many connoisseurs might overlook Angel’s Envy. However, for any amateur eager to spice up their bar cart with something unique, this is your pick. Plus, a little family endorsement: when pitted against Green River and Blanton's, my non-bourbon-drinking mom preferred Angel’s Envy. Perhaps it was the charming logo or the catchy name, but it's a telling favorite for the amateur palate.
So, there you have it, fellow bourbon brigade. Angel’s Envy is your go-to if you're looking to sip on something that breaks just enough rules without getting arrested. Until next time, keep your spirits high and your expectations tempered—but not too tempered.
Cheers to a dram good time! 🥃✨
The Details:
Proof: 86.6 • Mashbill: 72% Corn • 18% Rye • 10% Barley • Aged: 4yrs-6yrs •Price: $50
Brown Water Rating Scale:
Nose: 3 • Palate: 4 • Finish: 2 • Uniqueness: 2 • Value: 3 • Overall: 2.8
This is a 5-point scale based on my own preferences. This was also tested by my mother, NOT another whiskey lover but wanted to try becasue of the name and logo. Mothers, am I right? 