Tag: bourbon whiskey

Angel’s Envy Bourbon

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I was quickly spoiled in the bourbon world since Angel’s was one that I tasted pretty soon after I became interested in whiskey. Angel’s Envy is absolutely one of the smoothest out there. And when I say smooth, I mean not just taste but how it feels. The first time I sipped it, I said it felt like velvet on my tongue, though I think silk is a better word. I have yet to find anything that compares.

A Little History

Lincoln Henderson developed well-known brands such as Gentleman Jack and Woodford Reserve. He was a master distiller, and after he retired, his son Wes approached him about starting a family business. Dad agreed, and the business became Angel’s Envy.

The distillery in downtown Louisville, Kentucky is the youngest and opened its doors in 2016. Don’t let that fool you though. The distillery is young, but Angel’s Envy is steeped in Kentucky Bourbon history.

Have you ever wondered how Angel’s Envy gets its name? The alcohol that evaporates as the bourbon sits in barrels for years is traditionally called the “angels’ share.” What’s left is then the envy of the angels.

How It’s Distilled

They say Angel’s Envy is Scotch-inspired and American-made (with a dash of rebellion). I say it’s the perfect combination.

Like Scotch, Angel’s Envy uses a secondary barrel finish, but not just any barrel — ruby port wine barrels. That’s where the rebellion comes in. Angel’s Envy was among the first to use such a cask to finish a bourbon. Bourbon and port wine are introduced to each other, and the reaction is the sweetest, velvety perfection you’ve ever met.

Oh by the way, the distillers of Angels’ Envy are pure perfectionists and take their craft seriously, tasting every barrel before we consume it. It’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it.

The Notes

After aging for 6 years, the bourbon spends 6 months in the port casks. What’s left are some of the world’s most beautiful notes:

  • The color — golden amber
  • The aroma — caramel, maple syrup, nuts, and vanilla
  • The palate — creamy vanilla, tangerine, slightly smokey
  • The finish — hints of Madeira (Portuguese wine), smooth, silky, it lingers on the tongue

How To Enjoy Angel’s Envy

With its list of smooth, almost sensual notes, certainly, Angel’s Envy needs no additions to make it enjoyable. If you haven’t found a bourbon you enjoy or are new to bourbon, I think it’s the perfect one to try. Angel’s has considerably less “burn” than some bourbons. But be warned, you’ll compare everything else to it and it’ll be tough to beat.

Women and Bourbon Whiskey

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As a woman who loves bourbon, I’m often left feeling like I’m forcing myself into a men’s club when I order two fingers or want to join in on the bourbon conversation. Don’t get me wrong. I am not man-bashing. My husband can attest, I’m a big fan of men. It’s just that most men probably don’t realize there are women out there who enjoy the layers of notes in a fine bourbon and the fun discussions that come from it (if they can find someone to talk to).

Times are changing for sure, but the world of bourbon is still aimed at men. Yet, I know women, including myself, who are fascinated by the stuff and enjoy drinking it. It’s no mystery as to why this attitude exists. Bourbon is as old as America itself, and with that comes old customs and habits that are tough to break. Back in the day, it wasn’t ladylike to go into a bar, let alone enter a smoke-filled room with gents and ask for a whiskey. Men today certainly aren’t against a lady drinking bourbon — they just aren’t used to it. And hey, it goes both ways. If a guy wants a pink comso, let him enjoy his cosmo.

If you are new to bourbon, as a woman it is intimidating for sure. Here’s the thing: you were born for tasting layers of flavor. It sounds dramatic but hear me out. According to Health, women’s senses behave differently than men’s and it may make them better at catching flavors and aromas. When tested, women often pick up smells that men can’t, and there are actually scientific reasons for it. For females, the area of the brain that controls our ability to smell shows 43% more brain cells and nearly 50% more neurons than a man’s. And when it comes to taste, women have more tastebuds on their tongues than men do. Interesting stuff. It’s not a competition; however, it’s an encouragement for the gal who wonders if she can taste bourbon as well as the guys.

If you need more encouragement, check out the awesome ladies from BourbonWomen.org. The founder of the organization, Peggy Noe Stevens, recognized a need for women to find like-minded women who enjoy bourbon whiskey. She is a Master Bourbon Taster and, in the past, she felt odd having so much knowledge, understanding, and love for bourbon in a world where she almost didn’t feel welcome. You can search for local branches of Bourbon Women in your area, here.

If you’re considering trying bourbon or learning more about it; jump in. If you’ve loved bourbon for a while now, keep sipping away. Bourbon whiskey was meant to be shared and everyone is welcome.