Water of Life - Angel's Envy
If you remotely follow this series, you would be acutely aware that whisk(e)y, in all its facets and incarnations, can at best be a pretty immersive experience that tickles all senses – given that you are willing to approach it with an open mind.
Needless to say, the quality and enjoyability of the juice is paramount, however, there is also something said for a visually appealing presentation, especially when schmick design not only aligns but further accentuates and implies the nature and connotation of the respective whiskey it adorns and manages to convey what the distillery is all about.
Despite having made its first appearance well over a decade ago, I have to admit that other than admiring the uniquely shaped bottle from the corner of my eye every time I spotted one standing out of the back of a bar, I have never experienced it. Given that our focus has recently been mainly on Australian whiskeys, it was high time to change that and shed light on one of the more intriguing Bourbons on the scene.
Founded by Lincoln Henderson, who honed his craft as the Master Distiller at Brown Forman where he contributed to the creation of such iconic expressions like the Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel and Woodford Reserve, Angel’s Envy enabled him take an intriguing and unorthodox detour: Interestingly finished in Port casks, Angel’s Envy is imbued with an additional dimension that transcends what traditional bourbon has been known for.
Brightly hazel-coloured in appearance, the nostrils are tickled upon approach by sweet, jammy and heady aromas of candy-like gleam of black cherry and liqueur touched with the teasing allure of almonds, which gives way to a licoricey blend that penetrates the senses, backed by a rustic oaky backbone with spicy, black peppery highlights.
What the nose promises seamlessly transitions to the palate: Via a rich and velvety mouthfeel the traditional honeyed vanilla Bourbon character unfolds, however, it is contrasted by a unexpected, sophisticated astringency, which adds a welcome bite.
Sugary molasses dance with coconut chocolate and hints of raisins courtesy of the Port barrels, which add deepness and richness to the fulminant body. Touches of baking spices, nutmeg, cinnamon and citrussy, tangy nuances add depth and balance, thereby underlining the impressive consistency from nose to palate.
The clean and warm finish is medium in length, with a melange of dark chocolate, sugar cookies generously flavoured with cinnamon, peanuts, oak, butter cream and interesting sour, red winey and tangy notes with delicate smoky undertones.
Summa summarum, Angel’s Envy is an immensely enjoyable and dangerously moreish richly textured Bourbon that proves more than the sum of its parts, with my only gripe being that while it shines at an ABV of 43.3%, it would certainly sing at 50% or beyond. Unfortunately a cask strength expression does not seem to be available on terra australis yet.
