When it comes to bourbon, the landscape is as vast as the Kentucky plains—filled with heritage brands, craft upstarts, and everything in between. Penelope Bourbon, a relatively new player in this crowded field, has carved out a niche with its approachable yet distinctive style. Launched in 2018 by founders Mike Paladini and Danny Polise, this brand isn’t just another sourced whiskey operation; it’s a personal project born from a moment of celebration—namely, the birth of Paladini’s daughter, Penelope. Penelope Bourbon has grown from a small-batch curiosity to a widely recognized name, available in over 23 states and even internationally. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the bottle—or rather, bottles—and find out.
The Story Behind Penelope Bourbon
Every bourbon has a story, and Penelope’s begins with friendship and fatherhood. Mike Paladini and Danny Polise, childhood friends from Basking Ridge, New Jersey, set out to create a whiskey that bridged their differing tastes—Mike leaning toward robust, spicy profiles, and Danny favoring smoother, softer pours. The timing couldn’t have been more serendipitous: as they embarked on this venture, Mike learned he and his wife, Kerry, were expecting a daughter. Naming the bourbon after her was a no-brainer, infusing the brand with a sense of familial warmth from the start.
Penelope Bourbon isn’t distilled in-house; it’s sourced from MGP (Midwest Grain Products) in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, a powerhouse known for supplying high-quality whiskey to countless brands. What sets Penelope apart is its blending process. The duo opted for a four-grain mash bill—or, more accurately, a blend of three distinct MGP mash bills that collectively incorporate corn, wheat, rye, and malted barley. This approach gives Penelope a unique flavor profile that’s both versatile and approachable, a hallmark of the brand’s identity.
Since its inception, Penelope has expanded its lineup, offering everything from its flagship Four Grain Bourbon at 80 proof to higher-octane Barrel Strength releases and experimental finishes like the Toasted Series. In 2023, MGP acquired the brand, a move that’s only amplified its reach and resources. But enough about the backstory—let’s get to the good stuff: what’s in the glass?
Penelope Four Grain Bourbon: The Flagship
The backbone of Penelope’s lineup is its Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey, bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV). Marketed as an “all-day sipper” akin to a session IPA, it’s designed to be light, flavorful, and accessible to both novices and seasoned bourbon drinkers. The mash bill is a blend of three MGP recipes: typically cited as around 75% corn, 15% wheat, 7% rye, and 3% malted barley, though exact ratios can vary slightly by batch. Aged for 2–3 years in charred new American oak barrels, it’s non-chill-filtered, preserving its natural oils and character.
Appearance: Pouring a glass reveals a hazy amber hue, with a touch of sediment floating lazily—evidence of that non-chill filtration. It’s not the deepest color you’ll see in a bourbon, hinting at its youth, but it’s inviting nonetheless.
Nose: The aroma is subtle but pleasant. Up front, there’s a wave of caramel and sweet corn, classic bourbon notes that feel familiar yet restrained. Dig deeper, and you’ll catch a floral whiff—think dried wildflowers—mingled with a hint of vanilla bean and a whisper of mint. The wheat softens the edges, while the rye adds just a tickle of spice. It’s not a bold nose, but it’s approachable, like a friendly handshake.
Palate: On the sip, the wheat shines through with a silky, soft mouthfeel. There’s a gentle sweetness—honey and a touch of candied orange zest—but it’s understated, almost elusive. The rye kicks in mid-palate with a mild peppery bite, though it’s far from overpowering. Oak is present but light, a nod to the young age, and there’s a faint grassy note that lingers. The 80 proof keeps the heat minimal, making it an easy drinker.
Finish: The finish is short and clean, with a bit of black pepper and oak fading into a buttery corn sweetness. It doesn’t linger long, which aligns with its “sessionable” pitch but might leave enthusiasts wanting more depth.
Thoughts: Penelope Four Grain is exactly what it promises: a light, approachable bourbon. At around $35, it’s priced fairly for a craft offering, though it competes with heavyweights like Buffalo Trace or Elijah Craig Small Batch in that range—both of which bring more complexity and age. For newcomers or casual sippers, it’s a solid entry point; for bourbon geeks, it’s pleasant but unremarkable. I’d recommend trying it in a bar first—it’s a “bar” over a “bottle” for me unless you’re seeking something deliberately mild.
Penelope Barrel Strength: Unleashing the Beast
If the flagship Four Grain is the gentle introduction, Penelope Barrel Strength is the brand flexing its muscles. Bottled uncut and non-chill-filtered, each batch varies in proof—typically landing between 114 and 116 proof (57–58% ABV)—and showcases the same four-grain blend with a bit more age (4–5 years) and intensity. Batch 13, for instance, clocks in at 116.6 proof, and it’s a fan favorite for those who crave a bolder pour.
Appearance: The color deepens slightly compared to the flagship, a rich straw-gold with those telltale floaters from non-chill filtration. It looks heftier, promising more substance.
Nose: This is where things get exciting. The higher proof amplifies everything: honey and vanilla surge forward, joined by toasted oak, cinnamon, and a vegetal edge—think green wood or fresh-cut grass. There’s a fruity undercurrent too, maybe starfruit or orange peel, with a dusting of clove and cocoa powder. It’s youthful but vibrant, a step up in complexity.
Palate: The arrival is warm but not scorching, thanks to the wheat’s softening influence. Caramel and toffee dominate, layered with spicy rye notes—white pepper and a touch of dill. The oak is more pronounced, offering a toasty backbone, while a creamy vanilla rounds it out. Add a few drops of water, and it opens up further, revealing subtle fruitiness and a smoother texture. At full strength, it’s thin for a barrel-proof bourbon but still delivers a punch.
Finish: Longer and spicier than the flagship, with lingering caramel, cinnamon, and a smoldering oak char. It’s not as robust as some MGP-sourced barrel-proof titans (think Remus Repeal Reserve), but it’s satisfyingly warm.
Thoughts: Penelope Barrel Strength is where the brand starts to shine. Priced around $60–$70, it’s competitive among sourced barrel-strength offerings, offering a balance of power and accessibility. It’s not the most complex or aged barrel-proof bourbon out there, but it’s enjoyable and versatile—great neat, with water, or in a cocktail. For me, it’s a “bottle” contender if you catch a batch that sings to your palate (they do vary!). Batch 13, for instance, has a cult following for its balance.
Penelope Toasted Series: A Wild Card
Penelope’s Toasted Series takes the four-grain base and finishes it in freshly toasted barrels, adding a layer of unpredictability. Each bottle’s flavor hinges on the toast level (light, medium, or heavy), and batches can swing wildly—some lean sweet and vanilla-driven, others veer into tannic, burnt territory. Let’s imagine Batch 23-304, a heavy-toast, 100-proof release aged 5 years.
Appearance: Darker still, a cola-like amber with thick legs in the glass—a sign of that secondary maturation.
Nose: Vanilla and honey explode, joined by caramel and a zesty lemon peel. The toast introduces a cinnamon-fireball kick, hinting at intensity.
Palate: Thick and viscous, with a rush of cinnamon heat that builds. The sweetness holds—think crème brûlée—but the toast adds a smoky, woody edge. It’s less MGP-like, which is refreshing in a sea of sourced bourbons.
Finish: Long and spicy, with lingering vanilla and a charred oak bite. The tannins are bold but not overwhelming.
Thoughts: The Toasted Series is a gamble—some batches dazzle, others feel overdone. At $70–$80, it’s a splurge worth trying if you love experimentation. Batch 23-304 would be a “bottle” for me if I craved that toasted twist; otherwise, it’s a “bar” to sample first.
Where Penelope Fits in the Bourbon World
Penelope Bourbon occupies an interesting space. It’s not a heritage distillery with decades of lore, nor a craft outfit distilling its own juice. It’s a blender’s brand, leveraging MGP’s quality to create something distinct. The flagship Four Grain appeals to the casual crowd, while Barrel Strength and the Toasted Series court enthusiasts willing to explore.
The 2023 MGP acquisition suggests bigger things ahead—perhaps older stocks or new expressions.
Compared to peers, Penelope holds its own but doesn’t always stand out. Against Buffalo Trace ($30, 90 proof), the flagship feels light; versus Remus Repeal Reserve ($90, 100+ proof), Barrel Strength lacks depth. Yet its accessibility and pricing make it a contender, especially for those new to bourbon or seeking variety.
Final Verdict
Penelope Bourbon is a brand with heart and hustle. The Four Grain is a friendly sipper, perfect for newcomers or a lazy afternoon. Barrel Strength brings the heat and complexity, earning a spot on many shelves. The Toasted Series is a wildcard—thrilling when it works, puzzling when it doesn’t. As of March 5, 2025, Penelope’s trajectory is upward, blending tradition with innovation. Whether you’re a bourbon newbie or a grizzled vet, there’s something here worth tasting. So, grab a glass, raise it to little Penelope, and see where this journey takes you.
