Last Updated on March 21, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Angel’s Envy is one of the few bourbon brands left still producing the spirit in small batches (just around 8 to 12 barrels at a time). Each batch is lovingly handcrafted to reflect a family’s dream, a bond between father and son.
Let’s look at Angel’s Envy Bourbon price, unique flavor notes, and production process to learn what makes it special.
What Is Angel’s Envy Bourbon?
Angel’s Envy bourbon uses a traditional Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey mash bill and finishes in port wine barrels after the initial aging period, much like how scotch whiskey is produced. As a result, the bourbon has a delightful, port-infused sweetness, alongside other flavors like caramel and raisin.
Lincoln Henderson’s expertise in the bourbon industry gave him the idea to onboard scotch whisky’s finishing process. Lincoln had over 40 years of experience in the industry as a master distiller for Brown-Forman. He was a huge influence in developing brands such as Woodford Reserve and Gentleman Jack.
When he finally retired in 2003, his son, Wes Henderson, convinced him to start a bourbon brand within the family, which eventually became Angel’s Envy bourbon.
Also Read: Kentucky Bourbon Festival
Angel’s Envy Bourbon Fun Facts
The Story Behind Its Label
Every distiller knows that the term “angel’s share” refers to the amount of spirit that evaporates during aging. “Therefore Angel’s Envy bourbon,” as per Kyle Henderson, “is what’s left in the barrel, and the angels are envious because they want more.”
Kyle Henderson is the third-generation Henderson in the family business. Lincoln Henderson was his grandfather.
How It’s Made
Angel’s Envy bourbon is proudly American, but that doesn’t stop it from taking a page out of Scotland’s book. Angel’s Envy bourbon finishes in port wine barrels after an initial aging period inside American white oak barrels like its scotch whiskey counterpart.
Of course, this process puts the barrels at risk of maturing at different rates, hence why the brand only sticks to making small batches. The distillers are also known to manually taste-test each barrel and only pull it out when the flavor is right. This spirit is finally bottled at 43.3 percent ABV.
Read: Blue Run Kentucky Straight Bourbon Guide
Key Ingredients
Angel’s Envy Bourbon is made with a mash bill of 72 percent corn, 18 percent rye, and 10 percent malted barley.
The first thing you’ll notice within the bourbon is a wonderful balance that caresses your tongue. It opens up with the aromas of caramel, raisins, and vanilla on the nose, followed by a rich mouthfeel of vanilla and bittersweet chocolate.
Read: Angel’s Envy & Eagle Rare Bourbon Comparison
What’s Toast The Trees Project?
Angel’s Envy bourbon doesn’t just stop being an innovative bourbon brand — they make it a point to give back to Mother Nature. The “Toast the Trees” project began in 2014 to raise awareness of the industry’s increasing need for white oak trees [1].
Every time a fan posts a bottle of Angel’s Envy or a cocktail made with the bourbon with the hashtag #AE4THETREES, they pledge to plant a white oak tree.
In 2017 alone, they amassed over 12,000 posts, which means the brand will be planting over 12,000 white oak trees. Read about the Angel Envy tour here.
Common Angel’s Envy Bourbon Prices
| Type | Size | Alcohol Proof | Average Price |
| Cask Strength | 750ml | 119.3 | Around $229.99 |
| Port Finish | 750ml | 87 | Around $51 |
| Rum Finish | 750ml | 100 | Around $94 |
| Sherry Cask 2019 | 750ml | 100 | Around $200 |
| Tawny Cask 2020 | 750ml | 111.6 | Around $250 |
Compared To Other Bourbons
Evan Williams
Evan Williams is a brand of Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey bottled at 43 percent ABV, much like Angel’s Envy. This brand has bittersweet notes of chocolate-covered espresso beans, caramel, and cinnamon, with hints of rose petal on the nose and a medium finish.
You can get a 750 ml bottle of Evan Williams at just under $20, just one-third of a bottle of Angel’s Envy.
Bulleit Bourbon
Bulleit Bourbon is most famous for its rye whiskey with a mash bill of 95 percent rye. As a result, the spirit is unapologetically bold and spicy, with hints of vanilla and rich oaky aromas. This recipe dates back over 150 years.
A bottle of Bulleit Rye at 750 ml costs around $29 (about half of Angel’s Envy).
1792 Bourbon
Like Angel’s Envy, 1792 Bourbon is also made in small batches before being bottled at 93.7 proof. This is another high-rye bourbon that’s bold and spicy on the nose and tongue, with hints of vanilla and coffee bean. This is a full-bodied bourbon with a long, spicy finish.
1792 and Bulleit are sold at the same price point (around $30), about half of Angel’s Envy.
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Popular Angel’s Envy Bourbon Cocktail Recipes
The Manhattan
The Manhattan is one of the oldest cocktails traditionally made with rye whiskey. Here’s how you can make this with bourbon instead.
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 3 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Angel’s Envy bourbon
- 0.5 oz sweet vermouth
- 3 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Maraschino cherry
Instructions:
Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass with ice and stir until combined. Strain and pour into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Serving: 1
Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a cocktail traditionally made with vermouth and Campari. This drink is named after an old Parisian magazine released in the 1920s.
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 3 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Angel’s Envy bourbon
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Lemon twist
Instructions:
Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass with ice and stir well until combined. Strain and pour into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Serving: 1
Gerry’s Angel
Gerry’s Angel is a tangy drink with a slightly bitter tinge of vermouth. This is relatively simple to make and even more delicious to drink.
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 2 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.3 oz Angel’s Envy bourbon
- 0.3 oz Bianco Vermouth
- 2 dashes of lemon juice
- 1 dash of raspberry juice
- Raspberry
Instructions:
Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice and shake vigorously. Strain and pour into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a raspberry.
Serving: 1
FAQs
Is Angel’s Envy available in all states?
Yes, Angel’s Envy is currently available in all 50 states. In 2020, the brand began international distribution, targeting countries like the UK, Australia, Canada, and Singapore.
Is Angel’s Envy rare?
Yes, Angel’s Envy is quite rare, being the time-sensitive bourbon. They are known to only release a scant 8,000 bottles per year due to their small-batch production and commitment to the meticulous finishing process.
Is Angel’s Envy Bourbon Expensive?
Angel’s Envy Bourbon is often considered a premium brand within the bourbon market, and with that comes a relatively higher price tag compared to many mainstream bourbons. While prices can vary depending on location and specific bottle size, Angel’s Envy typically falls into the higher price range for bourbons. The meticulous craftsmanship, unique finishing process, and high-quality ingredients contribute to its elevated price point. However, for bourbon enthusiasts willing to invest in a more refined and distinctive experience, the cost is often justified by the exceptional taste and craftsmanship that Angel’s Envy offers. It’s not uncommon for Angel’s Envy bottles to be priced above $50 or even $100, especially for limited edition or special releases.
Is Angel’s Envy a Rare Bourbon?
Angel’s Envy Bourbon is indeed considered relatively rare compared to mass-produced bourbons found on many liquor store shelves. While it’s not as elusive as some ultra-limited releases, Angel’s Envy often has smaller production runs compared to larger bourbon brands. Additionally, certain expressions or limited edition releases of Angel’s Envy can be particularly scarce and sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Despite being more widely available than some ultra-rare bottles, Angel’s Envy’s reputation for quality and craftsmanship contributes to its desirability among bourbon aficionados.
Is Angel’s Envy a Good Beginner Bourbon?
Angel’s Envy Bourbon can be a good choice for beginners looking to explore the world of bourbon, especially those who are already accustomed to whiskey or other spirits. Its smooth and approachable flavor profile, with hints of sweetness and balanced oakiness, makes it appealing to a wide range of palates. Additionally, the brand’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship ensures a consistently enjoyable drinking experience, which can be reassuring for those new to bourbon. While Angel’s Envy may have a slightly higher price point compared to some entry-level bourbons, its accessibility and well-rounded flavor make it a solid choice for beginners looking to expand their whiskey horizons without diving into more intense or complex expressions prematurely.
Is Angel’s Envy a True Bourbon?
Yes, Angel’s Envy is indeed a true bourbon. To be classified as bourbon, a whiskey must meet certain legal requirements set forth by the U.S. government. These requirements include being made in the United States, primarily from a mash bill of at least 51% corn, distilled to no more than 160 proof, aged in new charred oak barrels, and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof. Angel’s Envy meets all of these criteria, as it is distilled in Kentucky, primarily from corn, aged in new charred oak barrels, and meets the requisite proof standards. While Angel’s Envy does undergo a unique finishing process involving port wine barrels, this does not disqualify it from being classified as bourbon. Instead, it adds to its distinctive flavor profile while still adhering to the fundamental requirements of bourbon production.
Can You Drink Angel’s Envy Straight?
Yes, Angel’s Envy is often enjoyed neat or straight, meaning without any additional mixers or dilution. Its smooth and well-balanced flavor profile, characterized by notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, makes it highly suitable for sipping on its own. Many bourbon enthusiasts appreciate the complexity and depth of flavor that Angel’s Envy offers when consumed neat, allowing them to fully experience the nuances of the whiskey without any distractions from mixers or ice. However, personal preference ultimately dictates how one chooses to enjoy Angel’s Envy, and some may prefer it in cocktails or with a splash of water to tailor the drinking experience to their taste.
Why Is Bourbon Whisky So Expensive?
Several factors contribute to the relatively higher cost of bourbon whisky compared to other spirits. Firstly, bourbon production involves a lengthy and meticulous process, including sourcing high-quality grains, distillation, aging in new charred oak barrels, and bottling. The time spent aging in barrels is particularly significant, as bourbon must be aged for a minimum of two years to meet legal requirements, with many premium expressions aged for much longer periods. This extended aging process ties up capital and resources for distilleries, contributing to higher production costs. Additionally, factors such as barrel selection, craftsmanship, and brand reputation can also influence the price of bourbon whisky. Limited edition releases or special finishes, like Angel’s Envy’s port wine barrel finishing, can further drive up the cost due to their exclusivity and additional production complexities. Overall, the combination of production processes, aging requirements, and brand positioning all contribute to the relatively higher expense of bourbon whisky.
Where Does Angel’s Envy Bourbon Rank?
Angel’s Envy Bourbon holds a respected position within the bourbon community, often regarded as a premium brand that offers exceptional quality and flavor. While rankings can be subjective and vary among individual preferences, Angel’s Envy consistently receives high praise from whiskey enthusiasts and critics alike. Its unique finishing process in port wine barrels sets it apart from traditional bourbons, imparting rich and nuanced flavors that appeal to a wide range of palates. Additionally, Angel’s Envy has garnered numerous awards and accolades over the years, further solidifying its reputation as a top-tier bourbon. While it may not always top every list due to personal taste preferences and the diversity of the bourbon market, Angel’s Envy typically ranks among the best bourbons available, appreciated for its craftsmanship, complexity, and overall drinking experience.
How Do You Drink Angel’s Envy?
Angel’s Envy bourbon can be enjoyed in various ways, depending on individual preferences and desired drinking experience. Many bourbon enthusiasts prefer to drink Angel’s Envy neat or straight, allowing them to fully appreciate its complex flavor profile without any dilution or interference from mixers. Sipping it slowly allows one to discern the nuances of caramel, vanilla, and oak, along with subtle hints of the port wine finishing. Some may also choose to add a few drops of water to open up the flavors further, especially with higher proof expressions. Additionally, Angel’s Envy can be enjoyed in classic bourbon cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan, where its rich and robust character adds depth and complexity to the drink. Ultimately, how one chooses to drink Angel’s Envy is a matter of personal preference, whether straight, with a splash of water, or in a cocktail.
Is Angel’s Envy Bourbon or Whiskey?
Angel’s Envy is classified as bourbon whiskey. Bourbon is a type of whiskey that must adhere to specific legal requirements, including being made in the United States, containing at least 51% corn in the mash bill, and being aged in new charred oak barrels. Angel’s Envy meets all of these criteria and is produced in Kentucky, the heartland of bourbon production. While some additional steps, such as finishing the bourbon in port wine barrels, add complexity to its flavor profile, Angel’s Envy remains firmly within the category of bourbon whiskey. Its unique characteristics and production process contribute to its distinction within the bourbon market, offering bourbon enthusiasts a memorable and enjoyable drinking experience
Final Thoughts
What started as a humble dream of creating a family business has grown into one of today’s top bourbon brands. Angel’s Envy bourbon is an innovative brand that paved the way for a unique process of bourbon production and, at the same time, gives back to Mother Nature.
If you have the opportunity to chance upon this rare bottle, we recommend that you try it for yourself. Have a taste of this premium bourbon and share what you think in the comment section below!
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