Angel’s Envy, an innovator in cask-finished American whiskey since its founding in 2010, has announced its 13th annual release of the Cask Strength Bourbon. This year’s edition brings a new twist that will intrigue whiskey enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike: a blend of bourbon finished in two different port barrels, Ruby Port and Tawny Port, marking a first in the brand's history. Known for its unique approach to aging and finishing, Angel’s Envy continues to innovate within the American whiskey scene by introducing this combination of port finishes alongside a solera aging method, which is also a new practice for the distillery.
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Unique Double Port Finish Adds Depth to Traditional Flavor Profile
Traditionally, Angel’s Envy Cask Strength Bourbon undergoes a secondary aging period in Ruby Port barrels, imparting notes of fruitiness and sweetness to the bourbon. Ruby Port, a younger style of port aged in steel or concrete, is known for its rich, fruity characteristics that complement the vanilla and caramel flavors in bourbon. However, the 2024 release introduces Tawny Port barrels to the mix. Tawny Port, aged longer in wooden casks, contributes flavors of nutty toffee, warm oak, and subtle vanilla, which add layers of maturity and depth. The combination of Ruby and Tawny Port barrels creates a balanced flavor that combines the vibrancy of fruit with mellow, complex undertones from the older Tawny Port.
Master Distiller Owen Martin, who joined Angel’s Envy in 2022, played a pivotal role in this development. His intention was to expand the potential of the annual Cask Strength Program by honoring the traditional flavors fans expect while also introducing new complexities. According to Martin, this blend of Ruby and Tawny finishes provides a fresh angle on the brand’s classic profile, making it both familiar and uniquely complex.
Employing the Solera Method for Continuous Aging
This release also marks Angel’s Envy’s first use of the solera aging method, an approach not often seen in bourbon production. The solera method involves reserving a portion of each year’s batch to blend with future releases, creating a continuous aging process. This overblending and rebarreling technique allows the bourbon to develop layered flavors that span multiple years, enhancing consistency in taste while deepening its complexity. This method is particularly suited to Angel’s Envy’s commitment to crafting a unique yet balanced bourbon each year, as it allows for subtle carryover of flavors from past editions into the present release.
Tasting Notes: A Rich, Layered Experience
The official tasting notes for the 2024 Cask Strength Bourbon showcase a harmony of flavors that range from fruity sweetness to darker, nutty depths. On the nose, one can detect hints of apple crumble, buttery pie crust, and rich dark chocolate. As it hits the palate, the bourbon opens up with notes of oak and honeyed cinnamon, which are complemented by flavors of brown sugar and butterscotch. The presence of stone fruits, pear, and spices adds brightness to the taste, creating a contrast with the warm, earthy tones from the oak and Tawny Port finish. This layered experience is enhanced by the high proof of 118.8, which retains the intensity of flavors without overwhelming the drinker.
The finish of the bourbon lingers with tannic oak, nutty caramel, and port-induced sweetness, making it both balanced and full-bodied. For those seeking a premium tasting experience, Angel’s Envy recommends sipping the 2024 Cask Strength Bourbon neat, allowing the flavors to evolve on the palate.
Limited Availability and Retail Information
The 2024 Angel’s Envy Cask Strength Bourbon is set for a limited release, with 23,196 bottles available. Priced at a suggested retail price of $230, the release will be distributed nationwide in December. For those eager to sample or purchase it before the general release, the distillery in downtown Louisville will begin sales on November 21, where fans can meet Master Distiller Owen Martin, who will be on-site to sign bottles. This release is expected to sell quickly, as previous editions have been in high demand due to the bourbon’s limited run and strong reputation.
The bottle design for this year’s release is crafted to be as memorable as the bourbon itself. Featuring embossed wings, elegant gold foil labels, and an engraved metal medallion on the cork, each bottle combines aesthetic appeal with Angel’s Envy’s signature branding. The design makes it an appealing choice for collectors and gift-givers, as it’s both visually striking and tied to an annual tradition that resonates with whiskey enthusiasts.
Angel’s Envy’s Legacy of Innovation and Tradition
Over the years, Angel’s Envy has established itself as a leader in the art of cask finishing, building on founder Lincoln Henderson’s original vision of blending tradition with innovative aging techniques. The annual Cask Strength releases have grown to be a key part of the brand’s identity, with each year’s limited edition reflecting careful barrel selection and experimentation. Last year, the program expanded its scope with the addition of a Cask Strength Rye, which received significant praise and further solidified the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries within the whiskey world.
The 2024 edition exemplifies Angel’s Envy’s dedication to craftsmanship and willingness to explore new approaches, like the solera method, while maintaining the familiar foundation that fans expect. As the distillery’s reputation grows, this release reinforces Angel’s Envy’s position as a pioneer in cask-finished American whiskey, balancing innovation with respect for the roots of Kentucky bourbon.
How to Get Your Bottle of Angel’s Envy 2024 Cask Strength Bourbon
For bourbon lovers interested in obtaining a bottle, Angel’s Envy offers multiple purchasing avenues. Besides the distillery release on November 21, the 2024 Cask Strength Bourbon will be available online through Angel’s Envy’s website, where delivery is offered in select markets. Retailers nationwide will also carry the limited-edition release, although availability may vary by location due to the limited run.
Angel’s Envy’s 2024 Cask Strength Bourbon, with its dual port finish and solera aging influence, represents a bold step forward for the brand’s annual tradition. This year’s release is expected to be a highlight for whiskey collectors and fans of American bourbon, merging complexity and innovation in a bottle that reflects both the history and future of Angel’s Envy.
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About Angel's Envy
Angel's Envy is a premium bourbon whiskey brand that has gained acclaim for its unique approach to crafting and finishing bourbon. Established by the Henderson family, with patriarch Lincoln Henderson at the helm, the distillery is located in Louisville, Kentucky. What sets Angel's Envy apart is its distinctive aging process, which includes a secondary finishing step not commonly found in traditional bourbon production.
The bourbon starts with a classic blend of corn, rye, and malted barley, but what makes Angel's Envy stand out is the finishing process in port wine barrels. After the initial aging in new American oak barrels, the whiskey is transferred to ruby port wine casks for an additional period. This secondary aging imparts a layer of complexity and a unique flavor profile, adding notes of dried fruit, wine sweetness, and subtle spice to the final product.
Angel's Envy has gained a strong reputation for its commitment to quality and innovation. The brand is known for its small-batch approach, ensuring attention to detail and a focus on craftsmanship. The distinctive bottle design, featuring angel's wings, reflects the brand's heavenly influence, paying homage to the late Lincoln Henderson's desire to create a whiskey that would be "the envy of the angels" for taking their share during the aging process.
The portfolio of Angel's Envy includes a variety of expressions, such as the flagship Angel's Envy Bourbon, Angel's Envy Rye, and occasional special releases. The brand has garnered numerous awards and accolades within the whiskey industry, solidifying its position as a respected player in the premium bourbon market. Whether enjoyed neat or in cocktails, Angel's Envy offers a unique and memorable drinking experience for bourbon enthusiasts seeking something beyond the ordinary.