These Manic Monday Reviews will be short and sweet. There will be basic background information, a bottle review, and will be posted irregularly; unlike the weekly Friday reviews. These reviews will focus on older or past releases, single barrel releases, bottles that were lost or forgotten on my shelf, or whenever I just want to focus on the bourbon, not the write-up. With that said, today’s review is of Penelope Toasted Straight Rye Whiskey.

Bottle Information

From the Penelope Bourbon website: Our Toasted Series is a testament to the power of serendipity. When we began to explore toasted finishes, we weren’t expecting each barrel to be so different — so we decided to embrace this variety of chars and toasts that make every bottle in our Toasted Series truly one-of-a-kind.

After full maturation in charred new American oak barrels, we finished 95% rye 5% malted barley whiskey in a new, freshly toasted barrel.  While it can be hard to predict the flavor profile of each bottle in our Toasted Series, the deep notes of vanilla imbued by the toasting process add another dimension to our signature flavor profile.  Whether you’re into a Heavy Toast or Lighter Char, our Toasted Series truly offers something for everyone. 

That’s the serendipity of Penelope. 

• Distiller: Bottled by Penelope Bourbon Bottling Company
• Mash Bill: 95% Rye and 5% Malted Barley
• Proof: 100
• Age: 5
• Year: 2023
• MSRP: $59
• 2025 National Average: $73
• Official Website

With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Mint, Toasted Oak, and Rye Spice
• Palate: Rye Spice, Toasted Oak, Caramel, and Vanilla
• Finish: Missing? Short with Some Heat on the Tounge of Rye Spice
• My Rating: Mix It! (If it only had a finish…)

Please remember, drinking bourbon is a personal adventure, so do not be afraid to drink it neat, with ice, or add some water. It’s your bourbon, you bought it, and you should enjoy it how you want to enjoy it!

Cheers! Prost! Sláinte!

Bourbon Bossman®