WOTD 9: Lincoln Henderson's Angel's Envy Rye
Oh boy, a contentious one here. There's no two ways about it. True rye whiskey lovers are polarized on this and this review will hopefully explain why and IF you want to try this whiskey out yourself.
First, some back story. The name: As bourbon ages, for each year of maturation, 5% of the barrel’s bourbon is lost to evaporation. For generations, this precious lost bourbon has been called the Angel’s Share. After tasting his creation, Lincoln joked that the angels might have wanted a bigger cut. Thus Angel’s Envy was born.
Angel's Envy Rye is Finished in Caribbean Rum Casks. The casks start as cognac, then are used to age Plantation XO Rum. Angel's Envy is then finished for additional 18 months (adding to what appears to be a young whiskey of maybe 6 years). It uses an MPG Rye whiskey with a 95/5 Rye to Malted Barley ratio. This is either the same or similar mashbill to Bulleit's Rye and George Dickel's Rye. Right away, the rum idea divides whiskey drinkers like Red Sox and Yankees fans. To some the mere idea of doing this is an abomination, much less an actual "finished" product. But as ol' Friday used to say: "Just the facts, ma'am."
By facts I really mean my opinion... so here we go!
Nose: This stuff smells amazing. Maple and Brown Sugar. Tropical scents like coconut and pineapple, the rum casks definitely making their mark on this Rye to the extent that it doesn't quite smell like whiskey but like rum (think Pyrat). I love it, but is probably too sweet for most Rye lovers.
Taste: First of all, its smooth, very smooth. Maple Syrup, toffee, the tropical flavors are there but light. The spiciness of the rye comes in but not strong. Very drinkable even at 100 proof. Adding water mellows the burn but doesn't reduce the flavors. Really great taste!
Finish: Pretty long, still tasting the Maple Syrup and spice a few minutes afterwards.
I liked this a lot. But I like Rum. And I like Whiskey. So this is like an amalgamation from my greatest whiskey dreams.
Rating: 97/100
Sounds like a definite must for someone like myself. Thanks for the in-depth review. :D
ReplyDeleteI would say so. The rum/whiskey lover definitely can find something to love here. We'll have to find a way for you to try some. The best way to experience this whiskey is to add a little water, let it sit about 10 minutes and it is amazing how the nose increases and flavor is fuller.
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