Penelope Bourbon announced the release of Madagascar, the latest expression in its Cooper Series, a collection that explores the art of cask finishing. 

Beginning with Penelope’s signature Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey and finished in Cognac casks, Madagascar brings together familiar bourbon sweetness and layers of candied fruit, vanilla and warm spice, evoking flavors perfect for the holiday season. 

The Cooper Series takes its name from Cooper, the son of Penelope Bourbon’s founder Daniel Polise’s son, and nods to the craft of cooperage, craft of cooperage, the art of making and maintaining the barrels used in aging and finishing spirits and wine. 

Reflecting the brand’s spirit of experimentation and discovery, each addition to the lineup sees master blender Danny Polise explore how unique finishing casks can transform whiskey, creating expressions that invite drinkers to experience Penelope in unexpected ways. 

“With Madagascar, we wanted to explore how finishing in Cognac casks can bring a new dimension to our popular Four Grain Straight Bourbon,” Michael Paladini, Founder and Vice President of Strategy at Penelope Bourbon, said in a news release. “What we found was a whiskey with notes and flavors that people are looking to enjoy this time of year. The Cooper Series lets us build on a familiar foundation while exploring new ways for consumers to experience Penelope.” 

“What I enjoy about cask finishing is seeing how different barrels can change a whiskey,” Polise said. “With Madagascar, the Cognac casks brought out something fantastic. We picked up more candied fruit and spice but still had those vanilla and caramel notes from the bourbon. It was about finding the right balance and making sure the finish added something without taking away from the whiskey itself.” 

Bottled at 99 proof, Madagascar joins Penelope’s award-winning Cooper Series, which also includes Havana, finished in Caribbean rum and maple syrup casks; Rio, double finished in American honey and Brazilian oak casks and Riviera, finished in Spanish rosé wine casks. Penelope Madagascar is available for purchase online and at select retailers nationwide for a suggested retail price of $79.99. 

Read more: Penelope Bourbon Celebrates FCancer Partnership with New Release

About Penelope Bourbon 

Founded in 2018, Penelope Bourbon has become one of the fastest-growing award-winning premium whiskey brands. The brand includes the Cooper Series, Limited Releases and Estate Collection. For more information, visit PenelopeBourbon.com.