Welcome to Day 7 of The 12 Days of Bourbon Christmas! Today, we’re savoring a bourbon that forever changed the way I experience this incredible spirit: Angel’s Envy. This is the bottle that took my interest to new heights, introducing me to the art of finishing bourbon and revealing just how complex and refined bourbon can be.
With its name rooted in bourbon folklore and its unique flavor profile, Angel’s Envy is a pour meant to be appreciated—neat or over a single large rock—letting its layers unfold slowly, sip by sip.
The Story Behind Angel’s Envy
The name “Angel’s Envy” comes from the legendary angel’s share—the portion of whiskey that evaporates during aging. The story goes that after the angels take their share, what remains is so exceptional that they can’t help but be envious of what’s left behind.
Founded by Lincoln Henderson, one of the most respected master distillers in the industry, Angel’s Envy combines tradition with innovation. After aging in charred new oak barrels, it’s finished in ruby port wine casks—a process that imparts a richness and depth that sets it apart from any other bourbon.
When I first tasted Angel’s Envy, it was a revelation. It’s the bourbon that made me pause, sip slowly, and appreciate the craft in every glass.
Tasting Notes
Angel’s Envy is like unwrapping a holiday gift that you didn’t know you needed. The nose draws you in with inviting aromas of ripe fruit, vanilla, and soft caramel. There’s a subtle touch of maple syrup and toasted oak that hints at the bourbon’s time spent in port casks.
The first sip is where Angel’s Envy truly takes flight. Silky and smooth, it greets you with flavors of dark berries, honeyed vanilla, and a gentle kiss of spice. The port finish brings a beautiful layer of richness—notes of plum, fig, and chocolate dance on the palate, making each sip feel like a luxurious indulgence.
The finish is long and warm, with lingering sweetness and a whisper of oak that reminds you of its craftsmanship. It’s complex yet approachable, refined yet comforting—everything a special holiday bourbon should be.
Why Angel’s Envy Stands Out
Angel’s Envy is a bourbon for moments of quiet appreciation. It doesn’t demand to be mixed into a cocktail or shared in a large gathering—it’s best enjoyed thoughtfully, whether neat or with a single ice sphere to unlock its layers.
It’s the bourbon you pour when the holiday lights are glowing, the house is quiet, and you’re reflecting on the season’s joy.
A Holiday Toast
Angel’s Envy is more than just a bourbon; it’s a reminder of how the smallest details—like a finishing cask or the patience to sip slowly—can transform an experience. It’s the bottle that deepened my love for bourbon, and I hope it brings that same sense of discovery to your glass.
As we raise our glasses to Day 7 of The 12 Days of Bourbon Christmas, let’s toast to the angels’ envy, the moments worth savoring, and the bottles that leave a lasting impression. Join me tomorrow as we continue our holiday journey, where I’ll share a bourbon that rivals Blanton’s—and one I might just enjoy even more. Cheers!