The AE rye is its own animal, it is not like anything I’ve ever tried. It is my favorite summer sipper. When I have others try it, it is 100% love or hate there is no in between.
I was fascinated by it. As someone who actually likes Malort, I describe it as what Malort would taste like with the bitterness removed. I would like to have a bottle of it but at the price point there are others in line in front of it.
Yeah. It's hard for me to really taste the rye; the rum is just too much. I would rather just have a good rum to drink instead of a rum-flavored whiskey.
This is great! So happy to see your take on Angels Envy. My dad bought me my first bourbon bottle which was Angels Envy for Christmas. A month later he passed away so this bottle will always have extra sentimental meaning to me. I was able to tour the Distillery in Downtown Louisville and have to say it was really worth it. The place is so beautiful and really gives you that "church" feeling. Had the first taste of the Rye during the tasting and bought 2 bottles immediately afterwards. Really nice Father/Son distillery and nice to see the Father/Son take on it.
Love Angel’s Envy. The rye with the rum cask finishing is one of the few ryes I’ve ever tried that made me do a double take and say “yum!”. It’s like a pancake breakfast with lots of other depth.
Difference in port and Tawny is that port is younger, sweeter, and fruitier. While Tawny is aged much longer, sometimes up to 40 years in wooden barrels resulting in much more complex flavors.
Love this brand review and your assessments of each bottle. I’m a AE rye fanboy, really enjoy its unique finish. For me, price is less of a factor for something I like. I’m pretty sure I’ve pissed enough $ away trying bottles I didn’t enjoy that paying a premium on the one’s I like is still a cheaper option. And besides, there are a few things in life where what it costs generally doesn’t matter…. and this is one of those. 👍
Beginner here. I went to a steak house and got this to sip on. I rarely drink (just never been a big drinker) but I love this so much I went out and bought a bottle of the $50. Glad I found this channel learn more about bourbons.
I enjoy ports and my rule of thumb has been that Ruby port is younger, sweeter, and fruitier. It’s typically aged only a few years and is why it retains more of the natural, deep ruby color. Tawny port is aged longer, sometimes as long as 40 years, in wooden barrels. Its flavor is more complex. As it ages, more of the natural color fades to brownish (hence its name).
I live in Chicago and the association with AE (and people who don't really know bourbon) is that it's upper tier or at least marketed as such. I'm glad to hear about the Rye, but I've always been very underwhelmed by AE in the past, especially for the price. In my mind, I'd rather pull any other bottle off the shelf at Binny's than AE, and I always see a certain type pulling these or Basil Hayden's. Maybe they are good starters, but to me there's so much more you can get with your hard earned $. Thanks for the video guys!
Big fan of Angel's Envy Distillery. I would like the regular release to have more proof for the price. Although it has a hefty price tag, the Cask Strength yearly offering doesn't disappoint. I'm glad they started selling the private selection store picks and personally haven't had a bad one.
Keep up with the one distillery products review. I find it very helpful in deciding which to purchase, based on the nuances of the finish and characteristics. Also like that you give the prices and value ratings. Thanks guys.
Angel's Envy Rye is an absolutely delicious pour.. The finish is strong, but it works for it somehow. I usually describe it as fruity maple syrup. Fantastic review!
Personally I feel like Angel’s Envy bourbon is on a similar level as standard Elijah Craig. At least in my area, you can get a 1.75L bottle of EC for around the same price as a .75L bottle of AE.
Few things, 1st, when i don't like a bourbon I bought. I put that one in my decanter. So when I have guest's I play let's guess the bourbon this way I get rid of it faster and it goes on the do not buy list. 2nd, I used to tell my friends a good bourbon for beginners or a gift. was Evan Williams single barrel priced from $29 to $35. Now I can't find it anymore. 3rd, everyone has a different palate, stuff my friends like I can't stand & vice versa. I always enjoy and learn from you channel.
I'm with Trenton. I've had the Rye and it is spectacular. However it would be better at a cheaper price. One of my local saloons has it and it's a treat to get it every now and then.
Haven't yet purchased Angels Envy only because friends have not had a good opinion of the readily available base offering, 86 proof bottle. Not sure if the option that Trenton really likes is available around here but I'm gonna keep and eye open for it so, thank you guys for that recommendation. Don't have plans for purchasing anything over $200 anytime soon. I just feel that there are too many bourbons out there in the $50 to $100 range that are pretty darn good. Thanks fellas, great show as always!
I picked up two bottles of the base offering at a close out sale of $30 and it is WELL WORTH the $30. I actually bought one and went back and bought the last one on the shelf the next day. I wish it was always $30 because it is better, in my opinion, than Elijah Craig or Larceny base offerings.
I met someone who works for Angels Envy and they mentioned the distillery is hoping to get it un-allocated, meaning the rye and the entry bourbon would drop by about $20 each. Fun to see how that overlaps with your comments!
My very first bourbon experience was in a upscale bourbon bar. I was overwhelmed by the huge selection behind the bar. I explained to the bartender that I was a bourbon virgin and asked if he could pick for me. He chose Angles Envy for me. He told me it wasn't the most expensive but for a first time it was deliciously approachable. That "first time" sold me on bourbons!! I loved it!!
I had a similar experience at a local liquor store. I asked the whiskey expert about the different kinds of bourbons etc. She recommended the Port Finished Bourbon. As a noob it hit all the right notes for me. I keep the Port and Sherry Finished bottles in continuous rotation.
I had a wee dram of the entry level last thanksgiving and it has been the best whiskey I’ve ever had. Vanilla bomb. I was drinking very hoppy ipas before that and now I’m wondering if thats how I arrived at vanilla. Currently I can’t afford my own bottle, unfortunately.
Great review!! I’m new to bourbon and have a bottle of the entry level Angels Envy at home. I’ve never had a rye bourbon yet, so I may look to check out the AE Rye.
One of my first intros to Bourbon and it's still my No.1!! I got 3 other newbies hooked on it too! I'd love to get finshed rye but it's 99 doll hairs in PA. Probably not going to happen.
So glad I got to see this. I was in the store last week and wanted to try Angels Envy but wasn’t sure if it was going to be worth it. Now I know I will pick it up next time
WOW!!! For the first time ever I'm not envious of the pricing in your neck of the woods. For whatever reason, AE is $40 here in So Cal, at every store and year round. Like Kurt mentioned, AE is great for beginners and sweet bourbon lovers alike. I keep a bottle on hand for those days when I want a sweeter/lighter pour. I really want to try the Barrel Proof, but at $250 a bottle here, I just can't justify the expense AND there are plenty of other bottles I'd rather have if I'm going to put down that much money. Great video guys!
Tried angel's envy bourbon for the first time last week on my honeymoon and personally loved it. I'd say it's absolutely worth the 50 to me, and I would've picked up a bottle if I didn't spend my booze budget at a local distillery instead (which conveniently had a port finish of their own)
Something you guys didn't mention- the rye is not labeled a straight rye. Angel's Envy can't say that they don't use flavors or very very wet barrels. In case people reading this don't know this yet (its a fairly common point brought up as a critique of angel's envy), I think its important information. It is very tasty, but incredibly sweet and pricey, so be informed before you purchase.
I thought the bourbon was “meh”, it became a mixer. The rye was so sweet to me, I couldn’t stand it after the third sip. So after many people influencing me, I purchased a pick literally this morning. I now have warning sirens going off in my head after hearing your review. Very nice video, cheers to you both.
I enjoy Angels Envy quite a bit. The bourbon is a replaced bottle when finished. I also enjoy the Rye as "whisky candy" and enjoy it when the mood hits me. It helps that I can get both at my local Sams Club for 39.99 and 64.99. I don't think I'd pay 90+ for the Rye but at the right price, It's a nice pick up.
The rye is very good to me. It’s really sweet to me. I have be in the mood for that but it’s a good one to have on the cabinet. I received it as a gift so it was free.
I am definitely a budget shopper. I have looked at Angels Envy where I shop and price has always been an issue ! I talk to the employees that are into bourbon and sometimes the costumers. The employees will usually either recommend a bourbon I ask about or LET ME SHOW YOU SOMETHING I LIKE BETTER WITH A BETTER PRICE POINT, this has been the response so far regarding AE! I haven't talked with a costumer that would recommend AE, although very few have spent the $$$'s to buy it!
I am an Angel Envy fan but not a rye drinker, only two of my 50 bottles are a rye. But, after listening to your comments I am tempted to try the Angel Envy Rye. In Oregon it is selling for $89.95.
I felt the same way. I have a hunch Trent is referring to those white bottles that come in all the fruit flavors and not real rum, and unfortunately he went into his review with that thought in mind.
I keep the basic Angel's Envy on the home bar as much for the look of the bottle than anything else. I like it ok, but of the 2 or 3 bottles I've had over the last several years, more has been consumed by guests than by me. I am very curious by the rye, but I am not sure I can get it. I will look the next time I need to make a run to the liquor stores. Thanks for the show - I really enjoy watching you guys and learn a lot from it. That being said, I ALWAYS make sure I am drinking responsibly.
The regular Angels Envy is $37.99 in northern California. My first bottle and really like it so far. Finished Rye is $68. Thats probably the most I am willing to spend on a bourbon. For me, regular AE will almost always be on my shelf
I absolutely love the AE Rye but my two biggest complaints are price and availability. I completely agree with you guys that a $70-75 price point would be ideal but I think because the availability is so minimal, they drive it up to $95. As for the port, definitely easy drinking but, agree with Trent that it should be higher proof point.
The rum cask finished has a nice sweetness. Very smooth. It's nice. I have the port finished for military exchanges and its undrinkable. A friend bought a bottle and hates it too. So far, I've only found one person who likes it - a friend's daughter. It does not taste like sweet tarts. It tastes like vomit or vomit in bourbon. Update: I tasted it again for the umpteenth time yesterday before giving it away. Flavors are much more subdued and it is now drinkable. For a third of the bottle being gone, it should have opened up long ago. Out of all those who tasted it, only one liked it. For clarity, mine is the cask strength barrel pick for military exchanges. Who knows who picked it?
The Rye has really come down in price here in south central Wisconsin. It used to be around $90, and now you can find it somewhere between $65 and $75.
Binny's usually has good store picks. I just picked up a George Remus cast strength single barrel store pick . It is very good. Next time you're at Binny's, pick up a bottle of Smooth Ambler contradiction rye . At $35-$40 , it's a great buy . 104 proof, non chill filtered and blended with some M.G.P. rye.
I have a store pick at 110 proof at it completely strays away from the traditional AE port finish and it is absolutely delicious. Straight dessert pour.
The rum finished version from a couple years ago was very sweet and not for everyone. I enjoyed it but in small doses The annual release in a wooden box from last year was great. Yes, $260.
Great video guys. I have the Rye and a barrel pick from the Military exchange....I love them both. My barrel pick is very oak heavy and I enjoy it, but the Rye really is amazing. Thanks as always.
I have a special place in my heart for Angel’s Envy, as they sort of elevated my interest in bourbon. That said, the store pick I received was also very disappointing. Their Rye is a different animal altogether. Cheers! 🦉🥃
Really enjoying your videos more and more. I realize that my taste alligns with both of yours. I like the AE rye and being able to find it for $79 makes it more appealing. AE port finished bourbon was my entry into bourbon. I never drink it anymore, but it got me into the spirit.
I enjoy Angels Envy, maybe because I really like Port. I regularly find the basic bottles (in California) for significantly less than you found it for. In fact, Total Wine currently lists it for $37, and our Costcos have consistantly carried it for a few years now for a little less. At that price point, I consider it a good deal and find that my non-bourbon drinking friends enjoy it too. I have purchased a few store picks and personally haven't found them to be worth the increased price point. I have never tried the Rye, because it is at the upper end of my self-imposed price ceiling. I love rum, so I may have to spring for a bottle. Thanks for the awesome review!
Excellent video fellas! My friends and I are big fans of Angels Envy, I love the finished rye but agree the price is a little high. I had the same exact experience with the store pick. Total Wine in Delaware had one and it was HORRENDOUS lol it’s a comfort to know you both had a similar experience
I just picked up an Angels Envy single barrel 110 proof store pick and i am really enjoying it! At $99 though i think there likely is better buys. Still debating though
Watched your review before an angles envy dinner 4 tastings totally agree with your reviews cask strength my favorite but not compared to lower price options. Thought the rye was incredible my least favorite was a barrel select from who hosted the dinner.
Love these single distillery reviews! I'd be interested to see y'all give a general breakdown of different types of finishing casks (sherry, port, tawny port, etc.), where they come from, what they lend to the whiskey. I realize I could do my own research, but it'd be neat to see your take on them. Keep up the great work 👍
86 proof for $50 is just not my thing. Plus for me, it just doesn’t have enough flavor. But as is the case with all bourbon, if you find one you like, go for it!!!! Nice review guys.
I feel like normal AE is like the beginners “fancy” bottle. Low proof, got some flavor, maybe the first time they have spent over 30-35 on a bottle. At least that’s what it was for me. AE Rye I had heard good things about, picked one up for 70 and was kind of disappointed. It is very sweet. I also heard there is an additive in the whiskey, which makes me think maple syrup but just could be sugar or something, that further disappointed me for such a pricey bottle, even at 70. Definitely looking for a barrel pick in the future because I know I won’t be able to find or afford the limited release CS. Although apparently I need to find a way to try it first based on what you are saying.
Great review! The price point is the only reason I have not purchased or tried any of the angel's envy whiskeys. Wish they would lower just slightly to make it more accessible.
I picked up a AE Barrel Pick from my local ABC and it was fantastic, however, it came in at 106 proof. It definitely reminded me of your description of the base AE but with higher proof and deeper flavors
I love AE. The price is fine. I love the Rye. I have the 2022 Cask Strength and it's incredible. It made my top five video. I have a barrel pick and it's great.
I have an Angel's Envy store pick that my wife and I sampled before we bought. Pretty sweet to me. One of these days I'll send you guys a blind and that bottle should be in it. I have a local bourbon that I'd like to include too.
AE isn't the best I've ever had, but it's the one I would pull out to impress non-whiskey friends. It's smooth, it has a lot of flavors that jump out, and it looks really freaking cool. People always comment on it when they see the bottle. And they have it at costco here, so it's actually pretty competitive with other mid-range whiskeys. Hearing your review, I gotta try that rye. But for that kind of flavor, I usually just go for nice rums like plantation which have big tropical flavor for half the price.
I like AE Rye a lot. It was $79 when I started buying it 2-3 years ago. I took the distillery tour two months ago, which was nice, but the highlight is the bar at the end of the tour. I don't usually drink mixed bourbon drinks, but their cocktails were unique and tasty. I was also able to taste their cider cash finished rye at the bar (I still like the rum finish better).
My AE is just the base model, for me it's a good mixer and not a straight sipper. Interested in trying the rye though. Agreed with other comments, these single distillery reviews are great.
Thank you for doing an Angel's Envy review! The straight bourbon is about $50 in my area and is delicious and smooth and a great taste for a beginner - but to pricey for what it is! And the Finished Rye (Rum casks) at $99 in my area is way over-priced in my view and very clove-forward. And the over-powering clove taste kills it for me. Perhaps the Rum finish is what did it for me, as I am only an occasional rum drinker with limited rum experience. And to be fair, yours was a "pick", whereas I got the general release.
My wife turns her nose up at almost all rye but she loves Angel’s Envy. Since it’s finished in rum barrels, lots of whiskey people turn their nose up, but I think it’s decent. Expensive, but I’d rather pay $70 on a bottle we’ll drink than $50 on one that will sit there for ages.
This inspired me to revisit the only Angel’s Envy I currently have which is also a local store pick for me in Northern California. Oddly it too is a one note oak beast.
I enjoy these distillery reviews. Helps narrow down what to try from specific brands since most offer multiple options to choose from. I still have yet to try AE but I do have an unopened Ohio state pick.
Angles envy is soooo good. Like he said at the end there will be someone willing to take that pick in the comments (me) but it also might make a good marinade or ingredient in something if you didn't want to drink it but wanted to use it somehow.
I like AE the base product is the only one I have owned but I enjoy it and it makes great cocktails especially something like a Boulivardier due to the bitterness. The AE balances it well.
If you have access to binnys, a lot of them have Cedar Ridge picks for around $27. Mine came in at 107 proof and beats about everything at the price in my opinion, so if you haven't tried them maybe keep an eye out.
Thanks again for the review! Really enjoy the one brand competition! I guess this is different but since I have not tried any of these would you believe I bought the LE Wooden box last year on a recommendation from our store manager. Still have not opened it but heard it is extremely difficult to find. Appreciate the reviews!
I am fairly new to the bourbon world, and Angel's Envy rye was shared with me and it's really what got me into trying other bourbon. I love it because of the different flavor. I am a fan of rum and it appeals to my young bourbon palate. I am in north central Indiana, and I am seeing the rye at Meijer and Total Wine for $75-$77 now. My first bottle was $90. I think the price is moving down (hopefully). By the way, I love your videos and insights. I appreciate all you do.
Code cracked: I get a lot of baking spice (nutmeg, cardamom, clove) on the Finished Rye but Trenton gets pineapple and cocunut; and so now I know how to translate his taste to mine!
Would like to try the rye. We just have the standard here and I have tried that. I found it not bad though a bit pricey but then lately everything has gone up here. Last year WT 101 was around $34 cdn and now it is $41.
I have had a pour of the basic bourbon at a bar and I enjoyed it okay, but for $50 I can get a bottle of Four Roses Single Barrel which I think beats the Angels Envy hands down.
I really enjoy the deep dive into one distillery. Id love to see more of these to educate me on the different producers
100% agree!
Angels envy finished rye is fabulous! So complex and balanced. It's a delicious pour
The AE rye is its own animal, it is not like anything I’ve ever tried. It is my favorite summer sipper. When I have others try it, it is 100% love or hate there is no in between.
I was fascinated by it. As someone who actually likes Malort, I describe it as what Malort would taste like with the bitterness removed. I would like to have a bottle of it but at the price point there are others in line in front of it.
Yeah. It's hard for me to really taste the rye; the rum is just too much. I would rather just have a good rum to drink instead of a rum-flavored whiskey.
How does it compare to Redemption Rye?
it isn't labeled as a straight rye so I'm skeptical of their quality
I cannot fathom drinking that stuff on a hot summer night lol gross
This is great! So happy to see your take on Angels Envy. My dad bought me my first bourbon bottle which was Angels Envy for Christmas. A month later he passed away so this bottle will always have extra sentimental meaning to me. I was able to tour the Distillery in Downtown Louisville and have to say it was really worth it. The place is so beautiful and really gives you that "church" feeling. Had the first taste of the Rye during the tasting and bought 2 bottles immediately afterwards. Really nice Father/Son distillery and nice to see the Father/Son take on it.
Love Angel’s Envy. The rye with the rum cask finishing is one of the few ryes I’ve ever tried that made me do a double take and say “yum!”. It’s like a pancake breakfast with lots of other depth.
Difference in port and Tawny is that port is younger, sweeter, and fruitier. While Tawny is aged much longer, sometimes up to 40 years in wooden barrels resulting in much more complex flavors.
Love this brand review and your assessments of each bottle. I’m a AE rye fanboy, really enjoy its unique finish. For me, price is less of a factor for something I like. I’m pretty sure I’ve pissed enough $ away trying bottles I didn’t enjoy that paying a premium on the one’s I like is still a cheaper option. And besides, there are a few things in life where what it costs generally doesn’t matter…. and this is one of those. 👍
Beginner here. I went to a steak house and got this to sip on. I rarely drink (just never been a big drinker) but I love this so much I went out and bought a bottle of the $50. Glad I found this channel learn more about bourbons.
I enjoy ports and my rule of thumb has been that Ruby port is younger, sweeter, and fruitier. It’s typically aged only a few years and is why it retains more of the natural, deep ruby color.
Tawny port is aged longer, sometimes as long as 40 years, in wooden barrels. Its flavor is more complex. As it ages, more of the natural color fades to brownish (hence its name).
Well put sir. Thank you for that education. I truly enjoyed that
@@AlexBarnes516 not knowing the source of the Tawny barrels, but knowing the history, that might explain the price a bit
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge!
I live in Chicago and the association with AE (and people who don't really know bourbon) is that it's upper tier or at least marketed as such. I'm glad to hear about the Rye, but I've always been very underwhelmed by AE in the past, especially for the price. In my mind, I'd rather pull any other bottle off the shelf at Binny's than AE, and I always see a certain type pulling these or Basil Hayden's. Maybe they are good starters, but to me there's so much more you can get with your hard earned $. Thanks for the video guys!
From Chicago too, no idea why it’s so highly rated here. It’s so mid
Koval Oat Whiskey is low proof and Rocks.
Big fan of Angel's Envy Distillery. I would like the regular release to have more proof for the price. Although it has a hefty price tag, the Cask Strength yearly offering doesn't disappoint. I'm glad they started selling the private selection store picks and personally haven't had a bad one.
I had a Total Wine barrel pick earlier this year and it was terrific. They must’ve had a bad barrel or just might not be their meilleur.
Keep up with the one distillery products review. I find it very helpful in deciding which to purchase, based on the nuances of the finish and characteristics. Also like that you give the prices and value ratings. Thanks guys.
Angel's Envy Rye is an absolutely delicious pour.. The finish is strong, but it works for it somehow. I usually describe it as fruity maple syrup.
Fantastic review!
Personally I feel like Angel’s Envy bourbon is on a similar level as standard Elijah Craig. At least in my area, you can get a 1.75L bottle of EC for around the same price as a .75L bottle of AE.
Love the Distillery reviews keep them rolling
The rye has been one of my go-to's for guests who "aren't into whiskey" and more often than not, it converts people quickly :)
Few things, 1st, when i don't like a bourbon I bought. I put that one in my decanter. So when I have guest's I play let's guess the bourbon this way I get rid of it faster and it goes on the do not buy list. 2nd, I used to tell my friends a good bourbon for beginners or a gift. was Evan Williams single barrel priced from $29 to $35. Now I can't find it anymore. 3rd, everyone has a different palate, stuff my friends like I can't stand & vice versa. I always enjoy and learn from you channel.
EW single barrel was the all time best beginner bourbon!
I'm with Trenton. I've had the Rye and it is spectacular. However it would be better at a cheaper price. One of my local saloons has it and it's a treat to get it every now and then.
Haven't yet purchased Angels Envy only because friends have not had a good opinion of the readily available base offering, 86 proof bottle. Not sure if the option that Trenton really likes is available around here but I'm gonna keep and eye open for it so, thank you guys for that recommendation. Don't have plans for purchasing anything over $200 anytime soon. I just feel that there are too many bourbons out there in the $50 to $100 range that are pretty darn good. Thanks fellas, great show as always!
I picked up two bottles of the base offering at a close out sale of $30 and it is WELL WORTH the $30. I actually bought one and went back and bought the last one on the shelf the next day. I wish it was always $30 because it is better, in my opinion, than Elijah Craig or Larceny base offerings.
@@chrisdaubert6259 If I can find it for that price, it'd be worth a try...thank you!
I met someone who works for Angels Envy and they mentioned the distillery is hoping to get it un-allocated, meaning the rye and the entry bourbon would drop by about $20 each. Fun to see how that overlaps with your comments!
My very first bourbon experience was in a upscale bourbon bar. I was overwhelmed by the huge selection behind the bar. I explained to the bartender that I was a bourbon virgin and asked if he could pick for me. He chose Angles Envy for me. He told me it wasn't the most expensive but for a first time it was deliciously approachable. That "first time" sold me on bourbons!! I loved it!!
I had a similar experience at a local liquor store. I asked the whiskey expert about the different kinds of bourbons etc. She recommended the Port Finished Bourbon. As a noob it hit all the right notes for me. I keep the Port and Sherry Finished bottles in continuous rotation.
I adore Angel's Envy Rye. I discovered it over Christmas and it's my new favorite whiskey. Maple, toffee, luxardo cherry, and sweet curry.
Angels Envy got me into bourbon. Love it! I keep seeing private selection bottles everywhere around here in Louisville. Even at Target
I had a wee dram of the entry level last thanksgiving and it has been the best whiskey I’ve ever had. Vanilla bomb. I was drinking very hoppy ipas before that and now I’m wondering if thats how I arrived at vanilla. Currently I can’t afford my own bottle, unfortunately.
Great review!! I’m new to bourbon and have a bottle of the entry level Angels Envy at home. I’ve never had a rye bourbon yet, so I may look to check out the AE Rye.
AE was like the second bottle of whiskey I ever bought. I really enjoyed it, need to revisit
One of my first intros to Bourbon and it's still my No.1!! I got 3 other newbies hooked on it too! I'd love to get finshed rye but it's 99 doll hairs in PA. Probably not going to happen.
My local liquor store did a single barrel barrel AE store pick that is absolutely amazing for $89!!
So glad I got to see this. I was in the store last week and wanted to try Angels Envy but wasn’t sure if it was going to be worth it. Now I know I will pick it up next time
WOW!!! For the first time ever I'm not envious of the pricing in your neck of the woods. For whatever reason, AE is $40 here in So Cal, at every store and year round. Like Kurt mentioned, AE is great for beginners and sweet bourbon lovers alike. I keep a bottle on hand for those days when I want a sweeter/lighter pour. I really want to try the Barrel Proof, but at $250 a bottle here, I just can't justify the expense AND there are plenty of other bottles I'd rather have if I'm going to put down that much money. Great video guys!
Much better price!
The finished rye is one of my favorite bourbons! The finish is dark chocolate to me, just amazing!
Tried angel's envy bourbon for the first time last week on my honeymoon and personally loved it. I'd say it's absolutely worth the 50 to me, and I would've picked up a bottle if I didn't spend my booze budget at a local distillery instead (which conveniently had a port finish of their own)
Something you guys didn't mention- the rye is not labeled a straight rye. Angel's Envy can't say that they don't use flavors or very very wet barrels. In case people reading this don't know this yet (its a fairly common point brought up as a critique of angel's envy), I think its important information. It is very tasty, but incredibly sweet and pricey, so be informed before you purchase.
That is nice to know
Very interesting!
I thought the bourbon was “meh”, it became a mixer. The rye was so sweet to me, I couldn’t stand it after the third sip. So after many people influencing me, I purchased a pick literally this morning. I now have warning sirens going off in my head after hearing your review. Very nice video, cheers to you both.
The best part of waking up is SLB in my cup! I’m not a super fan of the bourbon but I love that finished rye. Thanks for the video.
I enjoy Angels Envy quite a bit. The bourbon is a replaced bottle when finished. I also enjoy the Rye as "whisky candy" and enjoy it when the mood hits me. It helps that I can get both at my local Sams Club for 39.99 and 64.99. I don't think I'd pay 90+ for the Rye but at the right price, It's a nice pick up.
Nice to see this getting a review! Local Sam’s sells the regular for 46.00 and the Rye for 63.00 I enjoy the Rye for a sweet change of pace.
Much better pricing!
The rye is very good to me. It’s really sweet to me. I have be in the mood for that but it’s a good one to have on the cabinet. I received it as a gift so it was free.
I'd vote for $26 Early Times Bottled In Bond as a great bottle for anyone
No doubt!
I am definitely a budget shopper. I have looked at Angels Envy where I shop and price has always been an issue ! I talk to the employees that are into bourbon and sometimes the costumers. The employees will usually either recommend a bourbon I ask about or LET ME SHOW YOU SOMETHING I LIKE BETTER WITH A BETTER PRICE POINT, this has been the response so far regarding AE! I haven't talked with a costumer that would recommend AE, although very few have spent the $$$'s to buy it!
I am an Angel Envy fan but not a rye drinker, only two of my 50 bottles are a rye. But, after listening to your comments I am tempted to try the Angel Envy Rye. In Oregon it is selling for $89.95.
Angels envy is one of my favorite ryes the maple syrup on the nose is great and great flavor not too spicy
Never heard any say the rye was tropical, i get pure butterscotch. Love it
I felt the same way. I have a hunch Trent is referring to those white bottles that come in all the fruit flavors and not real rum, and unfortunately he went into his review with that thought in mind.
Yeah the bottle I have is a big caramel and butterscotch bomb. Outstanding.
I keep the basic Angel's Envy on the home bar as much for the look of the bottle than anything else. I like it ok, but of the 2 or 3 bottles I've had over the last several years, more has been consumed by guests than by me. I am very curious by the rye, but I am not sure I can get it. I will look the next time I need to make a run to the liquor stores. Thanks for the show - I really enjoy watching you guys and learn a lot from it. That being said, I ALWAYS make sure I am drinking responsibly.
The regular Angels Envy is $37.99 in northern California. My first bottle and really like it so far. Finished Rye is $68. Thats probably the most I am willing to spend on a bourbon. For me, regular AE will almost always be on my shelf
I have a total wine AE barrel pick. It’s probably the best thing in my collection so far.
I absolutely love the AE Rye but my two biggest complaints are price and availability. I completely agree with you guys that a $70-75 price point would be ideal but I think because the availability is so minimal, they drive it up to $95.
As for the port, definitely easy drinking but, agree with Trent that it should be higher proof point.
The rum cask finished has a nice sweetness. Very smooth. It's nice. I have the port finished for military exchanges and its undrinkable. A friend bought a bottle and hates it too. So far, I've only found one person who likes it - a friend's daughter. It does not taste like sweet tarts. It tastes like vomit or vomit in bourbon. Update: I tasted it again for the umpteenth time yesterday before giving it away. Flavors are much more subdued and it is now drinkable. For a third of the bottle being gone, it should have opened up long ago. Out of all those who tasted it, only one liked it. For clarity, mine is the cask strength barrel pick for military exchanges. Who knows who picked it?
Glad I watched this, almost bought the Binny’s pick today. Got knob creek 18 batch 2 instead
The Rye has really come down in price here in south central Wisconsin. It used to be around $90, and now you can find it somewhere between $65 and $75.
Binny's usually has good store picks. I just picked up a George Remus cast strength single barrel store pick . It is very good. Next time you're at Binny's, pick up a bottle of Smooth Ambler contradiction rye . At $35-$40 , it's a great buy . 104 proof, non chill filtered and blended with some M.G.P. rye.
Agreed. First Binnys pick I didn’t like.
I 100% agree with teh thoughts on the Rye. $70 I'd buy it but after tasting it, I passed at $89 here in Minnesota
I have a store pick at 110 proof at it completely strays away from the traditional AE port finish and it is absolutely delicious. Straight dessert pour.
The rum finished version from a couple years ago was very sweet and not for everyone. I enjoyed it but in small doses
The annual release in a wooden box from last year was great. Yes, $260.
Great video guys. I have the Rye and a barrel pick from the Military exchange....I love them both. My barrel pick is very oak heavy and I enjoy it, but the Rye really is amazing. Thanks as always.
I have a special place in my heart for Angel’s Envy, as they sort of elevated my interest in bourbon. That said, the store pick I received was also very disappointing. Their Rye is a different animal altogether. Cheers! 🦉🥃
Really enjoying your videos more and more. I realize that my taste alligns with both of yours. I like the AE rye and being able to find it for $79 makes it more appealing. AE port finished bourbon was my entry into bourbon. I never drink it anymore, but it got me into the spirit.
Thank you guys for reviewing !
I enjoy Angels Envy, maybe because I really like Port. I regularly find the basic bottles (in California) for significantly less than you found it for. In fact, Total Wine currently lists it for $37, and our Costcos have consistantly carried it for a few years now for a little less. At that price point, I consider it a good deal and find that my non-bourbon drinking friends enjoy it too. I have purchased a few store picks and personally haven't found them to be worth the increased price point. I have never tried the Rye, because it is at the upper end of my self-imposed price ceiling. I love rum, so I may have to spring for a bottle. Thanks for the awesome review!
$37 ? Wow!
37.00 is a great price!
Excellent video fellas! My friends and I are big fans of Angels Envy, I love the finished rye but agree the price is a little high. I had the same exact experience with the store pick. Total Wine in Delaware had one and it was HORRENDOUS lol it’s a comfort to know you both had a similar experience
I just picked up an Angels Envy single barrel 110 proof store pick and i am really enjoying it! At $99 though i think there likely is better buys. Still debating though
Watched your review before an angles envy dinner 4 tastings totally agree with your reviews cask strength my favorite but not compared to lower price options. Thought the rye was incredible my least favorite was a barrel select from who hosted the dinner.
Love these single distillery reviews! I'd be interested to see y'all give a general breakdown of different types of finishing casks (sherry, port, tawny port, etc.), where they come from, what they lend to the whiskey. I realize I could do my own research, but it'd be neat to see your take on them. Keep up the great work 👍
Great idea!
86 proof for $50 is just not my thing. Plus for me, it just doesn’t have enough flavor. But as is the case with all bourbon, if you find one you like, go for it!!!! Nice review guys.
Angel's Envy is a great bourbon. Highly recommend visiting the distillery.
I feel like normal AE is like the beginners “fancy” bottle. Low proof, got some flavor, maybe the first time they have spent over 30-35 on a bottle. At least that’s what it was for me.
AE Rye I had heard good things about, picked one up for 70 and was kind of disappointed. It is very sweet. I also heard there is an additive in the whiskey, which makes me think maple syrup but just could be sugar or something, that further disappointed me for such a pricey bottle, even at 70.
Definitely looking for a barrel pick in the future because I know I won’t be able to find or afford the limited release CS. Although apparently I need to find a way to try it first based on what you are saying.
I have skipped over Angels Envy due to the price. I will have to give it a try at the bar. Appreciate the video
Great review! The price point is the only reason I have not purchased or tried any of the angel's envy whiskeys. Wish they would lower just slightly to make it more accessible.
I picked up a AE Barrel Pick from my local ABC and it was fantastic, however, it came in at 106 proof. It definitely reminded me of your description of the base AE but with higher proof and deeper flavors
I do love the finished rye. It's expensive but it's a special one for me.
I love AE. The price is fine. I love the Rye.
I have the 2022 Cask Strength and it's incredible.
It made my top five video.
I have a barrel pick and it's great.
I have an Angel's Envy store pick that my wife and I sampled before we bought. Pretty sweet to me. One of these days I'll send you guys a blind and that bottle should be in it. I have a local bourbon that I'd like to include too.
AE isn't the best I've ever had, but it's the one I would pull out to impress non-whiskey friends. It's smooth, it has a lot of flavors that jump out, and it looks really freaking cool. People always comment on it when they see the bottle. And they have it at costco here, so it's actually pretty competitive with other mid-range whiskeys. Hearing your review, I gotta try that rye.
But for that kind of flavor, I usually just go for nice rums like plantation which have big tropical flavor for half the price.
I like AE Rye a lot. It was $79 when I started buying it 2-3 years ago. I took the distillery tour two months ago, which was nice, but the highlight is the bar at the end of the tour. I don't usually drink mixed bourbon drinks, but their cocktails were unique and tasty. I was also able to taste their cider cash finished rye at the bar (I still like the rum finish better).
My AE is just the base model, for me it's a good mixer and not a straight sipper. Interested in trying the rye though. Agreed with other comments, these single distillery reviews are great.
Thank you for doing an Angel's Envy review! The straight bourbon is about $50 in my area and is delicious and smooth and a great taste for a beginner - but to pricey for what it is! And the Finished Rye (Rum casks) at $99 in my area is way over-priced in my view and very clove-forward. And the over-powering clove taste kills it for me. Perhaps the Rum finish is what did it for me, as I am only an occasional rum drinker with limited rum experience. And to be fair, yours was a "pick", whereas I got the general release.
My wife turns her nose up at almost all rye but she loves Angel’s Envy.
Since it’s finished in rum barrels, lots of whiskey people turn their nose up, but I think it’s decent. Expensive, but I’d rather pay $70 on a bottle we’ll drink than $50 on one that will sit there for ages.
6:10 Trent turned into Margie Simpson for a minute there 😂
The finished Rye is my favorite whisky. The regular is high on my list too.
This inspired me to revisit the only Angel’s Envy I currently have which is also a local store pick for me in Northern California. Oddly it too is a one note oak beast.
Just wanted to say I really appreciate your content. Down here in south carolina it's so difficult to find good bourbon
There was a private barrel of AE Cask Strength Finished Rye. Bottled in 2018, if I'm not mistaken.
It was wild, spicy tropical cinnamon roll!
AE rye Rum finish is 79 CAD at Costco in Calgary Alberta, also
64 CAD for Buffalo Trace 1.75 litre bottle !
Single barrel store picks for $35 more and the proof is much higher and the flavors pop!! Cask strength -oh boy !!
Rotten melon is a flavor profile I’ve been searching for forever. Send it this way, gentlemen.
😂😂😂
We can find AE rye in the Milwaukee area for about $70 a bottle. I love AE bourbon, but their rye is on a whole different level in my opinion!
I have an AE store pick at 110 proof and it makes a phenomenal old fashioned 🔥 I’m so bummed you guys don’t like your store pick. Mine is so good.
Costco in my area has pallets of the finished rye for $80. I really like it.
I enjoy these distillery reviews. Helps narrow down what to try from specific brands since most offer multiple options to choose from. I still have yet to try AE but I do have an unopened Ohio state pick.
Angles envy is soooo good. Like he said at the end there will be someone willing to take that pick in the comments (me) but it also might make a good marinade or ingredient in something if you didn't want to drink it but wanted to use it somehow.
I like AE the base product is the only one I have owned but I enjoy it and it makes great cocktails especially something like a Boulivardier due to the bitterness. The AE balances it well.
Thank you for saving me money. I've wanted to give AE a try. Now I know to get a sample take before buying.
Not sure what you guys would want for it, but if its not too much, I’ll take the barrel pick! Or even just a sample to take it for a ride
If you have access to binnys, a lot of them have Cedar Ridge picks for around $27. Mine came in at 107 proof and beats about everything at the price in my opinion, so if you haven't tried them maybe keep an eye out.
Thanks again for the review! Really enjoy the one brand competition! I guess this is different but since I have not tried any of these would you believe I bought the LE Wooden box last year on a recommendation from our store manager. Still have not opened it but heard it is extremely difficult to find. Appreciate the reviews!
I am fairly new to the bourbon world, and Angel's Envy rye was shared with me and it's really what got me into trying other bourbon. I love it because of the different flavor. I am a fan of rum and it appeals to my young bourbon palate. I am in north central Indiana, and I am seeing the rye at Meijer and Total Wine for $75-$77 now. My first bottle was $90. I think the price is moving down (hopefully).
By the way, I love your videos and insights. I appreciate all you do.
Much better price!
Code cracked: I get a lot of baking spice (nutmeg, cardamom, clove) on the Finished Rye but Trenton gets pineapple and cocunut; and so now I know how to translate his taste to mine!
Love these single distillery reviews!!! Would love to see more! 😊
Would like to try the rye. We just have the standard here and I have tried that. I found it not bad though a bit pricey but then lately everything has gone up here. Last year WT 101 was around $34 cdn and now it is $41.
I have had a pour of the basic bourbon at a bar and I enjoyed it okay, but for $50 I can get a bottle of Four Roses Single Barrel which I think beats the Angels Envy hands down.