Penelope Project X: Maldonados Whiskey Business Pick

Penelope Bourbon is a relatively young, but rapidly acclaimed, American whiskey brand founded by Joe Michalek in 2018, inspired by the birth of his daughter, Penelope. The brand quickly distinguished itself in the crowded bourbon market through its commitment to innovation in blending and cask finishing. Unlike many distilleries that rely solely on their own distillation, Penelope often sources high-quality, aged bourbons (primarily a "Four Grain" mash bill, typically consisting of corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley) from MGP Ingredients in Indiana. Their expertise then lies in the masterful blending of these bourbons from different mash bills and aging profiles, followed by unique finishing techniques.

Philosophy & Innovation: Penelope's core philosophy revolves around creating remarkably smooth, flavorful, and approachable bourbons that can be enjoyed neat or in cocktails. They are particularly known for their experimental "Project X" series, where they push the boundaries of bourbon by meticulously crafting blends specifically designed to harmonize with various unique cask finishes (e.g., PX Sherry, Oloroso Sherry, Cognac, French Oak). This innovative approach allows them to offer a diverse range of complex and distinct expressions, making them a favorite among enthusiasts looking for something beyond traditional bourbon profiles. They also produce core offerings like Four Grain, Barrel Strength, and Toasted Bourbon.