Popular double-cask finished fan favorite is back in limited quantities
ST. LOUIS (Mar 4, 2025) – The carnival in a bottle is back. Penelope Bourbon announced the
release of Rio, one of its most sought-after annual releases in its innovative Cooper Series of
cask-finished bourbons. At 98 proof (49% ABV), the latest batch of Rio will be available in
limited quantities nationwide in March at a suggested minimum retail price of $79.99 per 750-
mL bottle.
Rio continues Penelope’s legacy of innovation with its unique blending and finishing techniques.
Inspired by Brazilian joy, this limited-allocation release is sought after by bourbon collectors
and connoisseurs, though it was crafted to be shared in celebratory moments by anyone
looking for an innovative bourbon. With a mash bill of 74% corn, 7% rye, 16% wheat and 3%
malted barley, this party in a bottle delights the senses with its double finish in American honey
and Brazilian Amburana oak barrels.
“Rio is one of our most unique releases of the year,” said Mike Paladini, Penelope Bourbon
founder and vice president of strategy for MGP. “The combination of a double finish using
Brazilian Amburana barrels and honey barrels complement each other so well. This year’s came
out incredible and we can’t wait for people to enjoy it.”
Rio brings a sweet honey aroma with a fun cinnamon roll note on the nose, tastes of
gingerbread, honey nectar and sweet baking spice on the palate, and a long and savory finish
with subtle notes of sweet honey and spice.
“Rio is one of the more interesting blends we make. The unlikely marriage between the
American honey and Brazilian hardwood barrels produces a unique mix of flavor notes,” said
Danny Polise, Penelope Bourbon founder and master blender. “I still remember the first time we blended the two finishes to reveal what this double finish could be. I loved it for the innovative flavor profile. Something different and fun to enjoy and share.”
Rio won Double Gold in the American Blended Whiskey category at the 2024 SIP Awards. As
one of the most popular expressions in the Penelope Cooper Series, Rio represents innovation
and artistry in bourbon through its inspired flavor profile and unique finishing process. Other
annual releases in the Penelope Cooper Series of bourbons finished in unique casks from
around the world include Havana, Rose, Tokaji and Valencia.
ABOUT PENELOPE BOURBON
Founded in 2018, Penelope Bourbon has become one of the country’s fastest-growing whiskey
brands. Named after founder Michael Paladini’s daughter, Penelope Bourbon offers a range of
uniquely blended and finished straight bourbon and rye whiskey expressions, known for their
smoothness and rich flavor, perfect for sipping neat or mixing in cocktails.
Penelope’s core expressions, including Wheated, Four Grain, Barrel Strength, Architect, and
Toasted Bourbon, have won more than 40 awards across the spirits industry. In 2024 alone,
Penelope won Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for Barrel Strength
and Toasted Rye, alongside innovation awards for limited releases such as Rio.
Penelope Bourbon continues to innovate within its Cooper Series, Limited Releases, and Estate
Collection, further establishing its place among the top premium whiskey brands.
Today, Penelope is available in 50 states and seven countries, proving that with passion, dedication,
and love, anything is possible.
For more information, visit penelopebourbon.com or follow us on social media
@penelopebourbon (Instagram/Facebook).
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