Angel’s Envy Single Barrel Private Selection Kentucky Straight Bourbon 750 ML

After years of waiting, Angel’s Envy finally capitulated to the growing chorus of bourbon fans asking for a single barrel program for AE’s famous port finished bourbon. The single barrel bourbon program finally began in late 2020 and focuses on capturing the essence of Angel’s Envy at high proof. It is aged in new oak before being transferred to Ruby port wine casks for finishing and bottled between 100 to 110 proof, resulting in a creamy and indulgent spirit.

This limited release of Angel’s Envy Single Barrel Private Selection was selected by Jensen’s Liquors. Each barrel varies in age, maturity and a distinctly unique palate, with notes of vanilla, ripe fruit, maple syrup, toast, bitter and chocolate.

Tasting Notes:

Appearance: In the glass, the whiskey presents a nice amber color, with a slight lean into gold.

Nose: Wood dust, dark plums, fresh cut red fruits, and antique wood furniture. The nose opens up to more decadent dessert notes of berry compote, toasted caramel sugar, and a touch of cinnamon and clove. Excellent nose but that comes off a bit softer than you expect with the high proof.

Palate: Drier on the palate than the nose. The front palate begins dry with candy sweetness only appearing as it moves towards the middle of the tongue and the finish. The port influence is almost non-existent and seems covered up by the heat of the proof. With stronger tannic notes than I expected, butterscotch and corn dust flavors compete for attention. Mouthfeel is on the thinner side, with the big oak notes leaving the overall experience quite dry.  

Finish: The port cask influence finally shows through on the long finish. The fruity note found on the nose finally makes an appearance and blends in with more dried oak, baking spices, hazelnut and nutmeg.