Penelope Architects Of Golf Bourbon Review

At the time of this review, I'd argue we're living through the second golden age of bourbon.

The frenzy of the bourbon boom has cooled. Shelves that sat empty for years are beginning to fill back up, and while we probably won't see age statements magically reappear on bottles like Blanton's or find ultra-aged releases collecting dust the way enthusiasts remember from the 1990s, there is something equally exciting happening.

Distilleries and independent bottlers are experimenting again.

Instead of chasing the same handful of allocated bottles, we're seeing a wave of new expressions, finishes, and blends hitting shelves at every price point. For bourbon fans—whether you've been drinking for twenty years or twenty days—there has never been a better time to discover something new. Even Sazerac products have started becoming regular shelf sightings in parts of the country, something that seemed impossible just a few years ago.

One of the brands that has taken full advantage of this new era is Penelope.

From the beginning, Penelope has carved out its own lane. Bold label designs, creative finishes, and thoughtfully constructed blends have helped the brand stand out in an increasingly crowded market. Whether you prefer a traditional straight bourbon or something that pushes the boundaries a bit, there's probably a Penelope bottle aimed at your palate.

That brings us to one of their newest releases: Architects of Golf—a six-year-old straight bourbon whiskey finished with American oak staves.

I'll admit, when I first read "finished with American oak staves," my immediate thought was, aren't bourbon barrels already made from American oak? It sounds like marketing copy—and maybe part of it is—but Penelope has earned enough goodwill that I'm willing to pour a glass before passing judgment.

Bourbon Review FAQ's

• Penelope Bourbon

• 2026

• Age: 6 Years

• Proof: 94

• 60% Corn, 36% Rye, 4% Malted Barley

• MSRP $60

  
  

Nose

Yellow Corn | Warm Spice| Confectionary Sugar| Light

Taste

Carmel | Licorice | Leather | Light

Finish

Oak | Granny Smith | Sorghum | Medium

Final Thoughts

Off the cuff, I'd have to say this one doesn't immediately strike me as a bottle that's in my wheelhouse. When I see the name Architect, my mind naturally goes to Penelope's French Oak series, which leans into richer, sweeter flavors.

At the beginning of this review, I questioned the inclusion of "American oak staves." By the end, I'm more intrigued than skeptical. Paired with the high-rye mash bill, it actually starts to make sense. Rather than adding more spice, the American oak seems to round out the edges without completely changing the character of the bourbon.

I wouldn't rush to the liquor store looking for Hole 2 or Hole 3 just to see how the series progresses, but I would absolutely pick them up for a boys' weekend or a bottle share. They make for a fun conversation piece, and sometimes that's just as valuable as what's in the glass.

This is a light, approachable pour that feels right at home on the back nine or standing around the grill on a Saturday afternoon.

That's also what I appreciate about Penelope as a brand. Even if one release doesn't quite fit your palate, there's a good chance something else in their lineup will. They continue to experiment without losing sight of what makes bourbon enjoyable.

I'm not calling this a pass. I'm saying it's a bottle worth trying at a bar or pouring from your buddy's collection before deciding whether it deserves a spot on your shelf.

Reccomendation

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