Bourbon History: Angel’s Envy

In the heart of Louisville, a distillery stands as a testament to innovation, craftsmanship, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of tradition. The Angel's Envy Distillery, with its unique approach to aging and finishing bourbon, has carved its own niche in the world of distilled spirits.

The story of Angel's Envy is one that began with a father and son, Lincoln and Wes Henderson, who shared a passion for whiskey-making. Lincoln, a bourbon industry veteran, played a pivotal role in creating Woodford Reserve, while Wes gained experience in the spirits industry. Together, they embarked on a journey to create a bourbon that would pay homage to tradition while adding their own unique twist.

The term "angel's share" refers to the portion of whiskey that evaporates during the aging process, leaving behind an empty space in the barrel. This evaporation contributes to the development of the bourbon's character, as well as its rich color and depth of flavor. The Hendersons saw this natural process as an opportunity to embrace innovation and create a distinct bourbon that honored tradition while acknowledging the influence of time.

What sets Angel's Envy apart is its approach to finishing. After the bourbon has matured in charred oak barrels, it is transferred to specially chosen casks that previously held other spirits, such as port wine barrels. This finishing process imparts unique flavors and complexities to the bourbon, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy notes that define Angel's Envy's flavor profile.

In 2010, the Henderson family introduced Angel's Envy to the world. The first release was met with acclaim, and its distinct flavor profile resonated with both seasoned bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers to the spirit. The brand's name reflects the Hendersons' belief that the angels would be envious of the portion lost to evaporation—a sentiment that speaks to their dedication to creating exceptional whiskey.

The Angel's Envy Distillery, located in downtown Louisville, is not just a production facility; it's a space designed to engage visitors and educate them about the art and science of bourbon-making. The distillery offers tours that take guests through every step of the production process, from mashing to bottling, providing insights into the brand's unique approach to aging and finishing.

Angel's Envy is known for its collaborations with other artisans, including glassblowers and potters, to create unique and artful expressions of their whiskey. The brand's commitment to creativity extends beyond the liquid itself, reflecting the Hendersons' desire to celebrate the artistry that surrounds bourbon.

The legacy of Angel's Envy is one of passion, innovation, and a commitment to creating exceptional bourbon. The brand's dedication to craftsmanship and its willingness to push the boundaries of tradition have earned it a special place in the hearts of bourbon enthusiasts. As glasses are raised to savor the nuanced flavors of Angel's Envy, they also raise a toast to the legacy of a distillery that has redefined the possibilities of bourbon-making.

The Angel's Envy Distillery is more than just a place of production—it's a haven for those who appreciate the artistry of bourbon. With its distinct approach to aging, finishing, and collaboration, the brand has elevated the experience of enjoying bourbon to new heights. As the legacy of Angel's Envy continues to evolve, it reminds us that the world of bourbon is not bound by tradition alone, but is also a canvas for innovation and creativity. With every sip, we honor the Henderson family's journey and celebrate the legacy they have crafted, one drop at a time.