In the expansive world of bourbon, few brands have carved out a niche as distinctively as Angel’s Envy. Established in 2010 by Lincoln Henderson, a revered figure in whiskey-making known for his contributions to Woodford Reserve and Gentleman Jack, Angel’s Envy has consistently challenged the traditional confines of bourbon production. Henderson’s pioneering vision led to the introduction of finishing bourbon in unique barrels, a concept that has gradually gained traction among distilleries. With its bold flavor profiles and innovative techniques, Angel’s Envy has positioned itself as a staple in whiskey collectors’ stockpiles and a perennial favorite in bars across the nation.
The foundation of Angel’s Envy’s allure lies in its meticulous approach to finishing. The distillery famously begins its bourbon aging process in traditional barrels, allowing the drink to mature until it achieves a harmonious balance of classic caramel and vanilla notes. The revolutionary aspect of Angel’s Envy is their decision to transfer their bourbon to port wine barrels for a secondary maturation. This critical choice has resulted in a spirit that combines the quintessential elements of a Kentucky bourbon with rich undertones of dark fruit, subtle spices, and a velvety finish that differentiates it from its contemporaries. This method of finishing bourbon is now widely imitated, but Angel’s Envy remains at the forefront due to its commitment to quality and innovation.
In the decade since its introduction, Angel’s Envy has not only maintained its reputation but has also released limited-edition bourbons that have garnered significant acclaim and accolades within the industry. The brand’s annual Cask Strength Bourbon release is highly awaited within the whiskey community, symbolizing a blend of respect for traditional practices and a fearless embrace of experimentation. The announcement of the addition of Angel’s Envy Triple Oak to their Signature Series marked a substantial moment for the brand, particularly as it represented the first new mainline product in over ten years after Henderson’s passing in 2015. This speaks volumes about the brand’s commitment to evolving while honoring its heritage.
The creation of Angel’s Envy Triple Oak is a testament to the brand’s enduring ethos, coming to life under the masterful guidance of Owen Martin, who took the helm in 2022. With previous accolades from his tenure at Stranahan’s, Martin faced the challenge of crafting a bourbon that not only broadened the portfolio but also resonated with the foundational values of the brand. The result is a carefully constructed blend of bourbons aged in three different types of oak barrels: French, Chinkapin, and Hungarian. Each of these woods brings its own unique characteristics to the bourbon, contributing to an overarching symphony of flavors.
The French Oak imparts enticing notes of baking spices and chocolate, creating a rich and aromatic profile. Kentucky-derived Chinkapin Oak adds layers of caramel and coffee, enhancing the bourbon’s sweetness and warmth. Meanwhile, Hungarian Oak rounds out the experience with its nuanced flavors, providing a depth that elevates the entire blend. The thoughtful selection of these barrels showcases Martin’s dedication to exploring how diverse wood types can impact the flavor journey of whiskey.
Set to enjoy its debut on October 1, Angel’s Envy Triple Oak will be available across nationwide retailers and online platforms, signaling the brand’s eagerness to reach a broad consumer base. Priced at a suggested retail of $74.99, this new offering is perfectly positioned for both newcomers to bourbon and seasoned aficionados who appreciate a carefully crafted spirit with complex flavor profiles. Notably, local whiskey lovers in Louisville have an exclusive opportunity to purchase the bourbon ahead of the general release, on September 14 at the distillery itself, further enhancing the brand experience.
For those deeply passionate about bourbon, Angel’s Envy Triple Oak signifies more than just a new bottle on the shelf; it embodies an intriguing mix of tradition and innovation, reverberating through the storied landscape of American whiskey. Whether you are curious about the art of bourbon craftsmanship or you consider yourself a connoisseur, this new addition promises an experience that enriches the palate and celebrates the evolution of a cherished spirit.
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