Penelope Tokaji Cask Finished Rye Whiskey Review.

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    Penelope 9 Year Tokaji Cask Finished Rye Whiskey Review.



    Penelope has built a reputation for innovation, especially through their creative finishing techniques. Their Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in Tokaji Casks is a perfect example of that craftsmanship. Coming in at 52% ABV and aged at least nine years, this release blends MGP’s signature 95/5 rye recipe with a Hungarian dessert wine cask finish. As a longtime fan of Penelope’s transparency and flavor-forward approach, I was eager to see how their rye handled this sweet, complex finish.

    The Tokaji cask finish instantly caught my attention, it’s not something you see often in rye whiskey. Known for its luscious sweetness, Tokaji wine brings vibrant fruit and honeyed notes that can either elevate or overpower a whiskey. Let’s see how Penelope balances it.


For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/Xt1IWagSys8.

Age Statement: 9 years.

ABV: 52%.

Mash bill: 95% rye, 5% malted barley.

Area of Distillation: Lawrenceburg, Indiana.

Finish: Tokaji wine cask.

Appearance: Golden amber hue.


On the nose:
    The first impression hits with classic MGP rye, herbal, floral, and slightly medicinal, but the Tokaji finish immediately adds a wave of sweet, fruit-forward complexity. Notes of grape, fig, and honey intermingle with cinnamon, clove, and vanilla. A soft wine funk rests beneath the surface, but it feels integrated rather than intrusive. It’s like an ice wine layered over a spicy rye backbone, decadent yet balanced.


Taste:
    The first sip clings to the palate beautifully. A rush of dark honey, dried apricot, and sugared pear gives way to the rye’s herbal spice and peppery kick. That interplay between sweet and spice defines this whiskey, neither dominates, and both remain expressive. There’s a touch of charred oak and a whisper of cinnamon dryness that lingers, keeping things grounded.


Finish:
    Medium to long, with lingering fruit sweetness and a warming rye spice. Hints of raisin and plum carry through, joined by a touch of that Tokaji wine funk. The mouthfeel is coating and rich, perfect for an after-dinner pour or pairing with a cigar.


Final Thoughts: 
    Penelope’s Tokaji Finished Straight Rye is a unique experience; bold, expressive, and wonderfully sweet without losing the rye’s punch. At $80, it’s a strong value, especially considering the 9-year age and the complexity the finish brings. On the secondary market, bottles can fetch upwards of $120, but it’s best enjoyed at retail pricing.

    While this isn’t an everyday sipper due to its sweetness, it’s a remarkable dessert-style whiskey that rewards slow, thoughtful sipping. It's mostly balanced, flavorful, and beautifully executed. Penelope continues to prove that finishing, when done right, can elevate a whiskey’s character rather than hide it.


Rating: A- (Amazing).

Cost: $79.99 for 750ml.

For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/Xt1IWagSys8.

Social platforms to follow me: https://linktr.ee/thelastcallyt

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