Penelope Light 17 Years Whiskey

Overview
Penelope American Light Whiskey 17 Years Old is a limited-release high-proof expression in the light whiskey category, distilled to 189 proof and aged 17 years in used cooperage for a distinctive sweet profile. It marks an advancement in age and strength over the brand's prior 13- and 15-year releases, showcasing balanced maturity in a polarizing style.

Specs at a glance

Good to know
Penelope, founded in 2018 as a non-distilling producer, sources primarily from MGP in Indiana and Kentucky distilleries, earning a rapid rise with transparent labeling. Acquired by MGP/Luxco in 2023, the brand retains its founders for blending oversight and distributes across 49 U.S. states. Light whiskeys like this one derive inherent sweetness from high distillation proof, which challenges traditional grading but rewards patient sippers.

Tasting notes

• Nose: Creamy eggnog leads with grated nutmeg, light cinnamon, toasted clove, fresh pralines, and vanilla.
• Palate: Bold sweetness from the corn-heavy mashbill unfolds with integrated spice and oak influence.
• Finish: Lingering cream and nutmeg with a warm, approachable high-proof tail.

Notable details

• Production: Distilled to 189 proof and aged in used cooperage; non-chill filtered.
• Lineage: Sourced from historic MGP production under Seagram’s; Penelope as NDP innovator since 2018.
• Comparison: Stands out in light whiskey for superior balance over category norms.
• Availability: Limited release at MSRP $100; polarizing sweetness may limit broad appeal.

"Penelope's 17-year-old light whiskey stands out as one of the best in its category due to its remarkable balance and approachable high proof." – Drinkhacker

Closing
A mature, high-octane light whiskey for those seeking sweetness refined by time and precise blending.

Sources

[1] Drinkhacker – "Review: Penelope American Light Whiskey 17 Years Old"

[2] Breakingbourbon – "Penelope 17 Year American Light Whiskey Review | Breaking Bourbon"

[3] Breakingbourbon – "SBC #99 Penelope 17 Year American Light Whiskey (HAZMAT) “Dangerously Drinkable” | Breaking Bourbon"

[4] Whiskeyreviewer – "Penelope Comes Out With Ultra-Aged Light Whiskey – The Whiskey Reviewer"