Angel's Envy Bourbon vs Angel's Envy Rye: Whiskey Comparison

Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 09:45 pm

J Highland

J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.

Discover the differences between Angel’s Envy Bourbon vs Angel’s Envy Rye in this in-depth comparison and decide which Bourbon is better for You!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Angel’s Envy Bourbon vs Angel’s Envy Rye: Comparison

Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon: A unique bourbon finished in port casks, offering a smooth profile with coconut, chocolate, and vanilla on the nose, and a palate of bread, maple syrup, caramel, and vanilla. Priced at $55.

Angel’s Envy Rum Cask Rye: A distinctive rye finished in Caribbean rum casks, delivering a nose of vanilla, coconut, and banana, with a palate rich in ripe fruit, maple, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Priced at $98.

Verdict: Both expressions showcase Angel’s Envy’s innovative approach to finishing, but they cater to different tastes. Angel’s Envy Bourbon offers a unique twist on traditional bourbon flavors, ideal for those seeking something smooth and slightly different. Angel’s Envy Rum Cask Rye steps further into the depths of sweetness and tropical flavors, perfect for those looking for an exceptionally smooth and dessert-like whiskey, states bourbon expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best Bourbons for Around $50

Sweet Escape: Angel’s Envy Bourbon Reinvents the Classic

Nose: Coconut, chocolate, vanilla
Palate: Bread, maple syrup, caramel, vanilla
Finish: Toasted oak, baking spice
Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Maker’s Mark

Angel’s Envy isn’t your typical bourbon. It takes a bold leap by finishing its aging in port casks, a fortified wine known for its sweetness and dark fruit notes. This unique process translates into a flavor profile unlike any other.

On the nose, expect the unexpected. Instead of the usual bourbon aromas, you’ll be greeted by hints of coconut and chocolate, followed by familiar vanilla.

The palate presents a smooth journey. While some might find it slightly thin, it delivers a pleasant blend of spice, maple syrup, caramel, and baking spices. Think breakfast with a twist.

The finish lingers gracefully, offering a long and smooth experience with subtle hints of oak and spice. While the 86 proof might feel light compared to other bourbons, it contributes to the exceptionally smooth character.

Is it good? Absolutely! Angel’s Envy stands apart with its intriguing and smooth profile. It’s perfect for those seeking something different and enjoyably sweet. Remember, it might not be the full-bodied punch some bourbon enthusiasts crave.

Bonus facts:

Aged 4-6 years in port casks after traditional bourbon aging.
Made with 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley.
Acclaimed by critics, earning 98 points from Wine Enthusiast and 5 stars from F. Paul Pacult’s Spirit Journal.

Angel’s Envy Rum Cask Rye: Tropical Paradise in a Bottle

Nose: Vanilla, coconut, banana, baking spice
Palate: Ripe fruity, maple, cinnamon, brown sugar
Finish: Rye spice, plantain
Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
How to drink: Neat
Similar to: Whistlepig 10

Craving a dessert in a glass? Angel’s Envy Rum Cask Rye might be your answer. This unique bourbon boasts an incredibly sweet nose, loaded with tropical fruits and a hint of coconut. Imagine Hawaiian Tropic sunscreen, but boozier!

On the palate, it’s smooth sailing. A thick, creamy body carries flavors of maple syrup, fruit, and vanilla, with the rye spice playing a shy role. The finish is remarkably smooth, almost heatless, leaving behind hints of plantain and lingering maple sweetness.

Think: Cinnamon Graham Crackers dipped in maple syrup, sprinkled with cinnamon. It’s sweet, smooth, and undeniably delicious.

But is it for everyone? If you prefer your bourbon bold and spicy, this might be too tame. However, if smoothness and sweetness are your jam, this is a winner. Plus, the lack of heat despite its 100 proof makes it perfect for those who prefer a gentle sip.

Bonus facts:

Aged for 18 months in Caribbean rum casks for a tropical twist.
They tasted 100 different rums to find the perfect match!
Created by the same Master Distiller behind Woodford Reserve and Gentleman Jack.