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Penelope Bourbon makes big splash in cigar scene with Cigar Sessions Chapter 1 American Whiskey

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Published
06/09/2025 by

Whiskey and cigars have always been savored together, but never quite like this – Penelope Bourbon elevates the timeless pairing of whiskey and cigars with the debut of Cigar Sessions Chapter 1. Always innovating, the Penelope team struck a match for cigar lovers by crafting the first-of-its-kind cigar pairing. The first release in the annual Cigar Sessions, Chapter 1 is crafted to complement medium-bodied cigars, with future Chapters designed to explore a range of cigar pairings.

The blend of unique American whiskeys featured in Cigar Sessions Chapter 1 – Straight Bourbon, 100% American Single Malt and American Light Whiskey – results in a one-of-a-kind rich and balanced profile developed specifically to enhance the enjoyment of medium-bodied cigar pairings. Made in small batches and aged six years with a mash bill of 72% corn, 15% rye and 13% malt, Penelope Cigar Sessions Chapter 1 is bottled at 101 proof (50.5% ABV). A limited allocation of 7,500 cases (6-in) is available in select markets starting this month for a minimum suggested retail price of $79.99 per 750mL bottle.

The unique new addition to Penelope's Limited Releases expressions was crafted in collaboration with renowned cigar blenders Cynn Coburn of Dissident Cigars and Lee Marsh of Stolen Throne Cigars. The Penelope blending team worked closely with Coburn and Marsh, drawing on their deep knowledge of cigars to craft a whiskey blend meticulously designed to complement and enhance the medium-bodied cigar experience.

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

Cigar Sessions Chapter 1 opens with notes of milk chocolate, vanilla and candied apple on the nose; with chocolate, dried peach, tobacco and warm caramel on the palate. The finish imparts flavors of toffee, dark fruit and light oak.

"This is a very unique blend of American whiskeys that came together," said Danny Polise, Penelope Bourbon founder and master blender. "We explored 19 various mash bills with the cigar blender team trying countless blend combinations. To our surprise, and delight, 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."

Cigar Sessions Chapter 1 is part of Penelope's annual Limited Releases – exclusive offerings featuring some of the rarest and more unique barrels, representing the pinnacle of blending innovation and barrel selection. Other Limited Releases include American Light Whiskey, F*ck Cancer and award-winning Toasted Rye. A product locator for the Penelope family of bourbons can be found here.

Fans can follow @penelope on Instagram for more information about Cigar Sessions Chapter 1 including where and when fans can meet the cigar blenders for special tastings and events.

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