Penelope Bourbon is making waves with the release of its highly anticipated Founders Reserve, a part of its renowned Estate Collection. This ultra-limited release offers whiskey enthusiasts the chance to experience a truly exceptional product through the newly launched Founders Reserve List. Fans who sign up will gain exclusive first access to this rare collection of 11-year-old straight wheat whiskey, bottled at cask strength and available in five distinct lots.
Image credit: Penelope Bourbon
A Limited-Edition Masterpiece
Founders Reserve is the rarest release in Penelope's Estate Collection, making it a coveted addition for collectors and whiskey connoisseurs alike. The release showcases an 11-year-aged straight wheat whiskey made with a mash bill of 95% wheat and 5% malted barley, giving it a distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart from typical bourbon offerings. The whiskey has been aged in charred new American oak barrels at the historic Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, which is known for producing some of the finest whiskeys in the world.
Each bottle in this release is bottled at cask strength, meaning the whiskey is not diluted after being taken from the barrel, allowing for a more intense, pure tasting experience. With proof points ranging from 107.6 to 118.4, each of the five lots delivers a unique flavor profile, making this release even more exciting for those looking to explore different expressions of wheat whiskey.
Distinctive Lots and Proof Levels
What sets Founders Reserve apart is the fact that the release is divided into five distinct lots, each with its own character and tasting notes. These lots, which are numbered B through F, have varying proof levels, offering a range of flavor experiences. The proof levels for each lot are as follows:
- Lot B: 118.4 proof (59.2% ABV)
- Lot C: 116.6 proof (58.3% ABV)
- Lot D: 109.5 proof (54.75% ABV)
- Lot E: 107.6 proof (53.8% ABV)
- Lot F: 108.2 proof (54.1% ABV)
These proof levels ensure that each bottle delivers a different, yet equally powerful and authentic cask-strength experience, offering something for every whiskey aficionado to enjoy.
An Exclusive Opportunity for Dedicated Fans
Penelope Bourbon is offering its most loyal supporters the chance to secure one of these extremely limited bottles by joining the Founders Reserve List. This exclusive list provides early access to purchase individual bottles for $199.99 each, or the entire five-lot set for $995.95. However, fans should act fast, as quantities are very limited. Some of the lots will produce fewer than 300 bottles, making this release highly exclusive.
Reserved bottles will be available for pickup at Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown, Kentucky, between November 22 and December 21, 2024. This limited window adds another layer of exclusivity to the experience, as fans will have to visit the distillery to claim their bottles. Penelope Bourbon founders Michael Paladini and Danny Polise will personally be present at the November 22 launch event at Lux Row Distillers, providing a personal touch to the release and making it an unforgettable experience for those who attend.
A Special Release Two Years in the Making
The story behind Founders Reserve began in 2019, when Paladini and Polise discovered the exceptional barrels that would eventually become the Founders Reserve. Over the past five years, they have carefully monitored these barrels, waiting for the perfect moment to bottle them. The result is 24 experimental barrels that offer something truly unique for whiskey lovers.
Paladini expressed excitement about the release, stating, “Founders Reserve is one of our most special releases of the year. We created this product as a way to showcase rare and unique barrels we came across throughout our bourbon journey.” Polise echoed this sentiment, adding, “We’ve been looking forward to this release for a long time. Each lot is distinct in character and offers something special for whiskey lovers.”
Luxurious Packaging for a Premium Product
In addition to the exceptional whiskey inside, the presentation of the Founders Reserve bottles adds to its exclusivity. Each bottle is housed in a dark green box, adorned with gold-embossed Penelope Estate Collection branding. The luxurious packaging includes detailed information on all five lots, making it not only a premium whiskey but also a beautiful collector’s item for enthusiasts.
What’s Next for the Founders Reserve Release?
After the initial release at Lux Row Distillers, any remaining bottles will be made available through e-commerce channels. However, given the highly limited production, fans are encouraged to act quickly, as availability will be extremely scarce. “The Founders Reserve List allows our supporters to experience these rare bottles before they’re gone,” said Polise. “We’ve crafted something truly special, and we’re excited to share it first with all who have supported us along the journey.”
About Penelope Bourbon
Founded in 2018, Penelope Bourbon has rapidly grown into one of the most celebrated whiskey brands in the United States. Named after Paladini's daughter, Penelope, the brand is known for its unique bourbon and rye whiskey blends, which are praised for their smoothness and rich flavors. Penelope’s core expressions, such as Four Grain, Barrel Strength, Architect, and Toasted Bourbon, have earned the brand over 40 awards, including top honors at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
In addition to its core lineup, Penelope has gained attention for its innovative limited releases, including Rio and now, Founders Reserve. The brand continues to expand its presence both nationally and internationally, with distribution in 49 states and seven countries.
Final Thoughts
Penelope Bourbon’s Founders Reserve represents a pinnacle of craftsmanship and exclusivity in the whiskey world. From the rare 11-year-old straight wheat whiskey to the luxurious packaging, everything about this release is designed to offer a truly special experience for collectors and connoisseurs. With only a small number of bottles available and the chance to secure them through the Founders Reserve List, this is a release that whiskey lovers won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or a newcomer looking to explore premium offerings, Founders Reserve is an opportunity to savor a rare and exquisite whiskey crafted with care and passion.
