Penelope Bourbon Hops on the Cigar Blend Whiskey Trend With an Unorthodox Blend

[JohnS]

Penelope Bourbon Hops on the Cigar Blend Whiskey Trend With an Unorthodox Blend

David Morrow - Jun 3rd, 2025, 3:06 pm

Penelope Bourbon is joining the cigar blend trend. (Photo: Penelope Bourbon)

Penelope Bourbon has hopped on the cigar blend whiskey trend with Cigar Sessions Chapter 1, a limited release designed to complement medium-bodied cigars. The release marks Penelope’s first cigar-focused expression and aligns with a broader trend among American whiskey makers targeting cigar enthusiasts.

Cigar blend whiskeys are typically crafted with the goal of having full-bodied flavor profiles, intended to hold their own against the strong aromas and textures of cigars. Though pairing whiskey and cigars has long been common, the idea of a whiskey specifically built to pair with a cigar is a relatively recent innovation in the U.S. The style gained momentum in the late 2010s, largely thanks to master blender Nancy Fraley, who adapted cigar blends from France, which has a long tradition of producing cigar blend cognacs and armagnacs. Fraley developed Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend Bourbon, and the trend has taken off from there.

In late 2024, the popular Austin, Texas-based distillery, Still Austin, released its first cigar blend whiskey, crafted by Fraley. 

With Cigar Sessions Chapter 1, Penelope is adding its take to the trend. The blend is unorthodox to say the least, combining straight bourbon, 100% American single malt and American light whiskey. Aged six years and bottled at 101 proof, it features a final mashbill of 72% corn, 15% rye and 13% malted barley. Only 7,500 six-bottle cases are being released in select markets this month at a suggested retail price of $79.99 per 750-milliliter bottle.

Penelope’s blending team collaborated with cigar professionals Cynn Coburn of Dissident Cigars and Lee Marsh of Stolen Throne Cigars to develop the whiskey.

“We wanted to create a truly authentic cigar blend – one that was created in partnership with a group of highly talented cigar master blenders,” Michael Paladini, Penelope Bourbon founder and vice president of strategy for MGP Ingredients, said in a news release. “We are excited to release Chapter 1 of our Cigar Sessions – the perfect complementary pour for medium-bodied cigars.”

MGP acquired Penelope — a non-distilling producer that was already sourcing whiskey from the Indiana-based giant — in May 2023.

According to tasting notes from the brand, Cigar Sessions Chapter 1 opens with milk chocolate, vanilla and candied apple on the nose, followed by flavors of chocolate, dried peach, tobacco and warm caramel. The finish is said to offer notes of toffee, dark fruit and light oak.

Danny Polise, Penelope co-founder and master blender, said the team tested 19 mashbills before settling on the final blend. “It was the balance of the American Single Malt together with the American Light Whiskey and the straight bourbon that resulted in a flavor profile that makes it the perfect choice for a cigar pairing,” Polise said.

Cigar Sessions Chapter 1 is part of Penelope’s Limited Releases line, which also includes American Light Whiskey, Toasted Rye and the charitable F*ck Cancer bottling.

Founded in 2018 and now part of MGP’s Luxco portfolio, Penelope has grown quickly, earning industry recognition including Double Gold at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Source: https://bottleraiders.com/whiskey/penelope-bourbon-cigar-blend-whiskey/

[JohnS]

Whiskey Meets Cigar: Penelope’s New Bold Bourbon

Image credit: Penelope Bourbon

By Menachem Kossowsky - Published at: 06-15-2025

Penelope Bourbon has stepped into the spotlight with a game-changer for whiskey and cigar enthusiasts alike. Their latest creation, Cigar Sessions Chapter 1, is a carefully crafted American whiskey designed to elevate the classic ritual of pairing a fine cigar with a smooth pour. This isn’t just another whiskey—it’s a deliberate blend made to complement medium-bodied cigars, offering a rich and balanced experience that’s perfect for those who savor life’s finer moments.

This new release, launched in June 2025, marks the first in an annual series called Cigar Sessions. Each chapter will explore unique whiskey blends tailored to different cigar profiles, but Chapter 1 sets the stage with a focus on medium-bodied cigars. It’s a limited-edition offering, with only 7,500 cases (six bottles per case) available in select markets. Priced at a suggested retail of $79.99 for a 750mL bottle, it’s a premium yet accessible choice for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship.

What makes Cigar Sessions Chapter 1 stand out is its unique blend of three American whiskeys: Straight Bourbon, 100% American Single Malt, and American Light Whiskey. This trio creates a one-of-a-kind flavor profile that’s been aged for six years and bottled at 101 proof (50.5% ABV). The mash bill—72% corn, 15% rye, and 13% malt—delivers a smooth yet bold character that pairs seamlessly with the nuanced flavors of a medium-bodied cigar. The whiskey is crafted in small batches, ensuring attention to detail and consistency in every bottle.

The creation process was a true collaboration, bringing together Penelope’s blending team and two renowned cigar blenders, Cynn Coburn of Dissident Cigars and Lee Marsh of Stolen Throne Cigars. Their expertise in cigar craftsmanship helped shape a whiskey that enhances the cigar-smoking experience without overpowering it. The team experimented with 19 different mash bills, testing countless combinations before landing on the perfect balance. According to Danny Polise, Penelope Bourbon’s founder and master blender, the blend of American Single Malt, American Light Whiskey, and Straight Bourbon was the key to unlocking a flavor profile that’s ideal for cigar pairing.

When you pour a glass of Cigar Sessions Chapter 1, the experience begins with the aroma. The nose greets you with inviting notes of milk chocolate, vanilla, and candied apple—sweet and approachable, yet complex. On the palate, the whiskey unfolds with flavors of chocolate, dried peach, tobacco, and warm caramel, creating a rich and layered taste that complements the earthy, spicy notes of a medium-bodied cigar. The finish is smooth, leaving behind hints of toffee, dark fruit, and light oak that linger just long enough to keep you reaching for another sip.

Michael Paladini, Penelope Bourbon’s founder and vice president of strategy for MGP Ingredients, emphasized the authenticity of the project. “We wanted to create something real for cigar lovers,” he said. “Working with master cigar blenders ensured we got it right—a whiskey that’s the perfect match for a medium-bodied cigar.” This dedication to authenticity and collaboration sets Cigar Sessions Chapter 1 apart as more than just a marketing gimmick; it’s a thoughtful addition to the whiskey world.

Cigar Sessions Chapter 1 is part of Penelope’s Limited Releases, a collection of exclusive whiskeys that showcase the brand’s innovation and expertise in blending. Other offerings in this series include American Light Whiskey, F*ck Cancer, and the award-winning Toasted Rye, all of which highlight Penelope’s commitment to pushing boundaries while staying true to quality. For those eager to try this new release, a product locator is available on Penelope Bourbon’s website, making it easy to find a bottle in select markets.

Penelope Bourbon, founded in 2018, has quickly become a standout in the premium whiskey scene. Known for its smooth, flavorful expressions, the brand has racked up over 40 industry awards, including double platinum at the 2024 ASCOT Awards and double gold at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its Barrel Strength expression. Operating under Luxco, a division of MGP Ingredients since 2021, Penelope is crafted at the Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, alongside other notable brands like Remus Bourbon. Luxco’s broader portfolio includes Rebel, Ezra Brooks, and Yellowstone Bourbon, as well as tequilas like El Mayor and Exotico, showcasing their expertise across spirits.

For those who love the ritual of lighting up a cigar and pouring a glass of whiskey, Cigar Sessions Chapter 1 offers a fresh take on a timeless tradition. It’s a whiskey designed not just to be sipped, but to be savored alongside a cigar, enhancing every puff with its carefully balanced flavors. Fans can stay updated on special tastings and events with the cigar blenders by following Penelope Bourbon on Instagram, where they share news about this release and more.

Source: https://www.whiskeypulse.com/news/whiskey/new-releases/whiskey-meets-cigar-penelopes-new-bold-bourbon-684f1e343e1ff3fceae8146d